Tendinitis is the inflammation or irritation of any of the tendons in your body -- tendons are the bands of connective tissues that attach your muscles to your bones. Tendinitis most commonly affects the wrists, heels, shoulders and elbows. The goal of treatment for tendinitis suffers is to reduce inflammation and pain. This can be completed through rest and anti-inflammatory medications. Vitamins may also help to alleviate pain and inflammation.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C -- also known as ascorbic acid -- is an antioxidant that has the ability to neutralize free radicals, which are particles that damage your cells and tissues. By fighting off free radicals, vitamin C is able to help reduce the inflammation caused by tendinitis. Vitamin C can also help to improve your immune system. Vitamin C can be taken in supplement form or consumed through a variety of foods. Sources of vitamin C include green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits and green peppers.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E also contains antioxidant properties. Vitamin E can help to reduce inflammation in your tendons by neutralizing harmful free radicals. This vitamin can also help to reduce symptoms associated with tendinitis, such as pain and swelling. Food sources of vitamin E include olives, wheat germ, corn and nuts. According to "The Vitamin Book," vitamin E should not be consumed in doses of more than 400 international units per day, especially when taking supplements. Overdosing on vitamin E can cause death.
Pyridoxine
Pyridoxine is also known as vitamin B-6 -- which is part of the vitamin B complex. Pyridoxine can help reduce the symptoms of tendinitis -- including pain, swelling and inflammation. This vitamin helps your body to absorb fats and carbohydrates from the foods you consume. As a result, your body is better able to repair damaged ligaments and tendons, according to "The Vitamin Book." Sources of vitamin B-6 include spinach, potatoes, sunflower seeds, brown rice and poultry.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is another vitamin that is considered a powerful antioxidant. This vitamin can help prevent free radical damage to your joints, muscles and connective tissues -- including tendons and ligaments. Vitamin A also works to enhance your immune system. A stronger immune system can help to prevent micro-organisms from damaging your tendons. Vitamin A also helps connective tissues to repair themselves -- which can promote quicker healing of tendinitis. Vitamin A can be found in green leafy vegetables, carrots, garlic, pumpkins, liver and fish oil.
References
- "The Vitamin Book"; Harold M. Silverman, Joseph Romano and Gary Elmer; 2003
- KidsHealth.org: Vitamins; Mary L. Gavin, MD; January 2011
- MayoClinic.com: Tendinitis; November 2009
