Knee injuries are common, particularly among athletic people. These injuries are typically caused by lateral instability, which can result in torn tendons and other connective tissues, according to Dr. James Balch and Phyllis Balch, authors of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Although there is no cure for a knee injury, certain supplements may help speed healing and reduce pain associated with knee injuries. Talk to your doctor before treating knee injuries with supplements. These injuries require the attention of a physician or an orthopedic specialist.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a natural substance that your body assimilates from foods and supplements and stores in its fat tissues, according to the Balches. This vitamin is necessary for the repair of cartilage, connective tissues and damaged bones. This vitamin may help decrease inflammation associated with knee injuries as well as improve the flexibility of the knee joints. This vitamin is available in capsule supplement form, as well as in multivitamin tablets.
Cayenne
Cayenne is a hot pepper that is used to spice Indian, Mexican and Cajun foods. However, this pepper may also offer medicinal benefits, according to Michael Castleman, author of "The Healing Herbs." Capsaicin, the active chemical compound in this pepper, may help relieve pain and joint inflammation. It inhibits chemicals in nerve endings that transmit pain impulses to your brain. Talk to your doctor before taking cayenne to relieve the pain of a knee injury. Supplements containing this pepper may cause stomach upset or diarrhea.
Manganese
Manganese is a trace mineral that is necessary for proper growth and repair of bone cells, according to the Balches. This mineral may help speed the healing of knee injuries involving bone fractures. However, you should not take manganese supplements if you have a calcium deficiency--manganese can interfere with your body's absorption of calcium. This supplement is readily available in tablet form in supermarkets and health food stores.
Calcium
Calcium is a primary component of bone cells and helps your body heal fractures associated with knee injuries, according to the Balches. It is also necessary to prevent re-injury of the bones in the legs and knees. You can find calcium tablets in drug stores, supermarkets and health food stores.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing;" James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 1997
- "The Healing Herbs;" Michael Castleman; 1991
