Supplements For Strengthening Ligaments

Ligaments are tough bands of connective tissue that connect bones or cartilage together, states SpineUniverse.com. Ligaments are an essential part of your body as they help stabilize your joints while you are resting and moving. Certain movements -- especially extreme extension or flexion movements -- may damage your ligaments and reduce your joint stability. If you are considering using dietary supplements to help strengthen your ligaments, first speak with your family physician about the safety and efficacy of this natural health treatment.

Ligament Problems

Sprains -- a twisted or torn ligament -- are one of the most common ligament problems. According to the National Health Service of the United Kingdom, ligament sprains can occur anywhere in your body, although most sprains occur in your knees, ankles, wrists and thumbs. The most common cause of ligament sprains is excessive force on a joint, which may occur during intense physical activity. Most sprains respond to conservative treatment methods that help reduce your pain and inflammation.

Useful Supplements

There are numerous dietary supplements that may be useful in strengthening your ligaments or treating your ligament problems. In her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," Phyllis A. Balch, a nutrition researcher and certified nutritional consultant, states that chondroitin sulfate, glucosamine sulfate, MSM, bromelain, calcium and magnesium, free form amino acids, silica and potassium may be helpful in restoring ligament health or strengthening your ligaments. Some of these supplements may require more scientific testing to validate their purported health benefits.

Chondroitin Sulfate

Chondroitin sulfate may be one of the most helpful supplements in strengthening your ligaments. Balch states that a dosage of 500 to 1,000 mg of chondroitin sulfate each day may provides nutritional support to help strengthen your ligaments, joints and tendons. Chondroitin sulfate helps maintain healthy joint cartilage and may protect your existing joint cartilage and other structures from premature degeneration. In some cases, chondroitin sulfate is used in combination with glucosamine sulfate to enhance its therapeutic effects.

Warning

Before using nutritional supplements to help strengthen your ligaments or treat your ligament injuries, meet with a qualified healthcare professional to discuss all possible treatment options. Ask your doctor about the most effective supplements for these health purposes as well as information about the appropriate dosage and how best to use these natural substances. The use of nutritional supplements in strengthening your ligaments does not guarantee a favorable outcome, and supplements should always be used in combination with other therapies recommended by your doctor.