Nutrients & Ligaments

Ligaments are fibrous bands of connective tissue that joint together bones, cartilage or other structures in your body. Ligaments, notes the Spine Universe website, improve your joints' stability, both at rest and during movement. Your ligaments help protect you from extreme movements, such as hyper-flexion and hyper-extension. Certain nutrients may be helpful in treating your ligament injuries. However, you should always check with your doctor before using specific nutrients to resolve your health problem.

Ligament Injuries

One of the most common ligament injuries is a ligament sprain -- a total or partial tear of the connective tissue that composes your ligament. According to the Medline Medical Encyclopedia, sprains are often caused by falling or twisting injuries, although they may also be caused by blunt force trauma. Ligament sprains in your wrists and ankles are among the most common sprains. Pain, swelling, bruising and decreased joint range of motion are the most common signs and symptoms associated with ligament injuries.

Appropriate Nutrients

There are many nutrients -- vitamins, minerals, amino acids and other substances -- that may be appropriate in treating your ligament problems. Certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," states that some of the most helpful nutrients in resolving ligament problems may include silica, vitamin E, zinc, bioflavonoids, bromelain, calcium, curcumin and grape seed extract. A larger body of scientific research evidence may be needed to validate these nutrients' purported health benefits.

A Powerful Nutrient

Curcumin -- the principle active ingredient in the spice turmeric -- is a powerful nutrient in treating the pain, swelling and inflammation associated with ligament injuries. Curcumin, states the Linus Pauling Institute, is a potent anti-inflammatory agent that may be helpful in treating numerous ailments, including rheumatoid arthritis and post-surgical swelling and pain. Curcumin is also known for its ability to help heal your tissues -- including your ligamentous tissues -- following traumatic musculoskeletal injuries.

Warning

Ligament injuries range in severity from mild to marked and should always be treated by a licensed healthcare provider. Your doctor can assess the extent and severity of your ligament damage and make helpful treatment recommendations to resolve your ailment. Nutrients alone, though helpful, may not be enough to speed your recovery. Some nutrients may cause undesired health effects in your body and should be avoided or discontinued immediately. Ask your doctor if nutritional therapy is appropriate for you or your condition.