Pain is one of the most common symptoms associated with muscle and ligament injuries. MayoClinic.com states that ligament sprains and muscle strains are common musculoskeletal injuries and cause many of the same signs and symptoms, although they affect different structures in your body. Rest, ice, compression and elevation are appropriate initial treatment measures for both conditions. Before using supplements to treat your ailments, discuss their use with your family physician.
Sprains and Strains
In addition to pain, states the National Health Service of the United Kingdom, ligament sprains and muscle strains may cause swelling, inflammation and loss of movement in your affected areas. Some of the most common locations in your body where ligament sprains occur include your knees, ankles, wrists and thumbs. The most common muscle strains, or muscle tears, occur in your hamstrings, calves, quadriceps and lower back muscles. Both sprains and strains are graded on a scale of 1 to 3, based on their severity.
Helpful Supplements
Nutritional supplements have long been used in treating muscle strains and ligament sprains, although many supplements have not been tested in a clinical setting. Some of the most commonly used herbs for these conditions have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving action. In her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," nutrition researcher Phyllis A. Balch states that the following nutritional supplements may be effective: bromelain, curcumin, manganese, grape seed extract, green tea, nettle leaf, ginger, feverfew, horse chestnut, boswellia and fenugreek.
Featured Supplement
Horse chestnut is a frequently prescribed dietary supplement in the treatment of muscle strains and ligament sprains. Balch notes that horse chestnut extract gel may be applied topically to your affected area to help reduce your swelling and inflammation, and therefore your pain. In her book "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," naturopathic physician Sharol Tilgner reports that horse chestnut possesses anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic action, and is known for its ability to help reduce edema, or swelling.
Considerations
In many cases, muscle strains and ligament sprains may self-resolve, especially if they are mild or moderate. Nutritional supplements may, however, speed the healing of these common musculoskeletal health problems. Before using nutritional supplements to treat any condition or health problem, discuss their use -- including dosage, proper methods of consumption, treatment duration -- with a licensed health care professional. Your physician can counsel you on the appropriate use of herbal remedies in treating your condition.
References
- MayoClinic: Sprains and Strains
- National Health Service: Sprains and Strains
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
