Tendinitis is a painful condition characterized by inflammation of the tendons, fibrous cords that attach bones to muscles. Mayoclinic.com notes that it is most common in the elbows, wrists, heels and shoulders, although it can affect any of the body's tendons. It may be caused by a number of factors including repetitive movements or injury. Besides physiotherapy and anti-inflammatory medicines, fish oil might also help to alleviate pain and inflammation, although evidence to prove it is effective is lacking. Talk to your doctor before taking a fish oil supplement.
Properties and Potential Benefits
As the name suggests, fish oil is derived from the flesh of oily fish including anchovies, herring, salmon, tuna and cod-liver. It contains polyunsaturated fatty acids known as omega-3s to are responsible for fish oils therapeutic effects. Fish oil is used in the treatment of a plethora of conditions including heart disease, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, rheumatoid arthritis and certain forms of cancer. MedlinePlus adds that it may also help to alleviate conditions characterized by pain and swelling.
Effectiveness
Fish oil has not been evaluated as they treatment for tendinitis in clinical trials, therefore it is difficult to determine if and how effective it might be. An article published in the January 2009 issue of the "Journal of Hand Therapy" notes that dietary supplements, including polyunsaturated fatty acids such as those found in fish oil, may have a beneficial effect on tendon pathology. However, in the absence of robust clinical evidence, it may be wiser to stick with tested treatments for tendinitis.
Sources and Administration
You can obtain fish oil by eating oily fish. MedlinePlus states that 3.5 oz. of fish supplies around 1 g of omega-3 fatty acids. However, fish oil is also available as a supplement in capsules and as a liquid, which enables more accurate dosing. The amount required to help alleviate tendinitis symptoms is unclear and may vary according to your overall health and other medicines you may be taking. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Safety Considerations
Taking up to 3 g of fish oil daily is safe for most people, according to MedlinePlus. However, taking more than this might prevent your blood from clotting and may make you more susceptible to infection, so don't take higher doses unless your doctor directs. Bear in mind that fish oil might interact with other medicines you may be using including the birth control pill, the weight loss drug orlistat and anticoagulants.
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