Tendinitis is the inflammation or irritation of a tendon -- the connective tissue that helps to connect your muscles to your bones. This condition can cause pain, swelling and tenderness along a joint. Tendinitis is most common in your wrists, heels, shoulders and elbows. While a diagnosis of tendinitis should be made by your physician, a number of vitamins and minerals may be able to ease your pain.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a vitamin known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This vitamin helps reduce the inflammation caused by tendinitis by neutralizing harmful free radicals that attack and damage your tendons. The anti-inflammatory properties of vitamin E alleviate pain and swelling often associated with tendinitis. "The Vitamin Book" recommends not exceeding 400 international units -- IU -- of vitamin E per day. Overdosing on vitamin E can lead to death. Supplement vitamin E or find it in a number of food sources -- including wheat germ, leafy vegetables, corn and nuts.
Ascorbic Acid
Ascorbic acid -- or vitamin C -- is a powerful antioxidant. Like vitamin E, ascorbic acid has the ability to neutralize free radicals that cause damage to what once were healthy tendon tissues. By eliminating free radicals attacking your tendons, vitamin C reduces inflammation helping reduce the discomfort associated with tendinitis, according to "The Vitamin Book." Vitamin C also supports the health of your immune system. Take vitamin C as a supplement; however, talk to your doctor before beginning a vitamin C supplement or any supplement. Consume vitamin C through your diet -- citrus fruits, cantaloupe, strawberries, berries, red peppers and tomatoes are all sources of ascorbic acid.
Magnesium
Magnesium is the fourth most abundant mineral found in the human body. Magnesium is commonly found in your bones, tissues -- including muscles and connective tissues -- and your organs. This mineral helps control the functions of your muscles and tissues as well as your nervous system. Magnesium also contributes to a healthy immune system and develops strong, healthy bones, muscles and connective tissues. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends 750 mg of magnesium daily to help repair damage caused by tendonitis. Food sources of magnesium include almonds, spinach, potatoes and cashews.
Calcium
Calcium is the most abundant mineral in your body. It plays a vital role in the health of your bones and in the contraction of muscles and tendons. This mineral plays an important role in the repair of damaged muscles and tendons and helps alleviate the pain and swelling of tendinitis. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends 1,500 mg of calcium daily for individuals who suffer from tendinitis. Calcium can be supplemented or found in a number of food sources. Dairy products, fortified bread, fortified cereal and salmon are all sources of calcium.
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
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Tendinitis
