Tendonitis is a common soft-tissue injury caused by overuse. The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases states that tendonitis is the severe swelling of one or more of your tendons, which are thick bands of tissue that help your muscles move your bones. Some herbs may help treat your tendonitis, but visit your physician to discuss procedures, alternatives and risks before taking herbal medicine for your musculoskeletal conditions.
Tendonitis
The Cleveland Clinic defines tendonitis as inflammation or irritation of your tendons. There are two main types of tendonitis: acute and chronic. Acute tendonitis involves immediate inflammation of your tendons, whereas chronic tendonitis involves tendon irritation following excessive repetitive use. Some of the most common signs and symptoms associated with tendonitis include pain in the injured area and decreased range of motion. Risk factors for tendonitis include poor posture, poor conditioning, leg length inequalities and certain medical conditions.
Herbal Treatments
Herbs have been used for hundreds of years to help treat musculoskeletal problems such as tendonitis. Some herbs for tendonitis can be taken internally while others should be applied topically. Some herbs can be used either way. Herbalist Ed Smith, author of the book "Therapeutic Herb Manual," says that arnica, comfrey and devil's claw are herbs that may reduce your tendonitis-related symptoms. Other helpful herbs include willow, turmeric and meadowsweet.
Most Popular Herb
Rue is an herb that is specific for tendon injuries. Rue, sometimes called herb-of-grace, is a plant indigenous to certain parts of Europe. Grown for medicinal and culinary uses, rue has anti-inflammatory action that is helpful in treating tendonitis, ligament sprains, muscle strains and other soft tissue injuries. Unlike some of the other herbs that have been used to treat tendonitis, rue can be either ingested in small doses or applied topically over your problematic area.
Considerations
Herbs, like pharmaceutical drugs, can exert powerful effects on your body. If you are pregnant, some herbs can affect your unborn child or stimulate menstruation. Some herbs are toxic if taken internally. Before you take herbal medicine to help treat your conditions, including your tendonitis, visit your doctor to discuss all aspects of your care and to determine if herbal medicine is best for you and your health complaints.
References
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases: Bursitis and Tendinitis
- Cleveland Clinic: Tendonitis
- "Therapeutic Herb Manual"; Ed Smith; 2007
