Thigh pain can have a variety of causes. Among the most common causes of thigh pain are muscle strains. Muscle strains can occur in the front portion of your thigh -- known as your quadriceps muscles. Your hamstring muscles -- the muscles in the back of your thighs -- can also become strained. Strains normally occur as the result of physical activity and require rest, ice and elevation to heal. Severe thigh pain should be examined by a physician. However, vitamins may be able to help reduce thigh muscle pain.
Bromelain
Bromelain is an anti-inflammatory agent found in the inner core of pineapples. Bromelain can also be purchased in the form of tablets or as a topical ointment. Taking bromelain before and after exercise or sports can help prevent occurrences of thigh muscle pain and soreness. The anti-inflammatory properties in bromelain help to prevent damage to your muscles by preventing free radicals from attaching themselves to your muscles. This can help to reduce muscles tears. The anti-inflammatory properties of bromelain can also help alleviate symptoms of thigh muscles pain -- including swelling and stiffness.
Vitamin C
When you think of vitamin C, you likely think of a vitamin that can help boost your immune system, prevent infection and help you to fight off infection. Vitamin C can do more than just boost your immune system. The antioxidant properties of vitamin C -- also known as ascorbic acid -- can help to heal and protect sore or injured muscle tissues. According to "The Vitamin Book," vitamin C also plays a key role in the production of elastin and collagen -- connective tissues that help to support your muscles. Vitamin C can be taken as a supplement. "The Vitamin Book" recommends 1,000 mg of vitamin C daily to help reduce muscle aches and soreness. You can also find vitamin C in a number of foods -- including citrus fruits, broccoli, strawberries and peppers.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E can help to repair damage to your muscles and tissues, according to "The Vitamin Book." This vitamin contains anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce muscle inflammation and soreness that may be caused by free radicals binding to your tissues and muscles and damaging them. By reducing inflammation, vitamin E can help to alleviate thigh muscle pain. Vitamin E can be found in a wide variety of food sources -- including corn, nuts, wheat germ, whole grains and olives. Vitamin E can also be taken as a supplement. Talk to your doctor before beginning a vitamin E supplement. Overdosing on vitamin E can result in death.
Vitamin B-6
Vitamin B-6 -- also referred to as pyridoxine -- is one of the eight vitamins that make up the vitamin B complex. These vitamins help to turn the foods you consume into forms your body can use. Vitamin B-6 can help your body to more easily absorb carbohydrates and fats. This can enable your body to better repair damaged muscles and tendons. Pyridoxine can help to reduce pain, swelling and inflammation that may be caused by a quadriceps or hamstring strain. Vitamin B-6 can be taken as a supplement or consumed as part of a well-balanced diet. Foods sources include potatoes, brown rice, chicken and spinach.
References
- "The Vitamin Book"; Harold M. Silverman, Joseph Romano and Gary Elmer; 2003
- KidsHealth.org: Vitamins; Mary L. Gavin, MD; Jan. 2011
- SportsInjuryClinic.net: Thigh Pain
