Manganese & Ligaments

Your ligaments are bands of fibrous connective tissue that help stabilize your joints. Ligaments are resilient, flexible tissues that lack extensive blood flow. Low blood flow to these tissues leads to prolonged healing times in people who suffer ligament damage or injury. Ligament injuries are called sprains and are categorized by severity as grade 1, 2 or 3. Grade 1 sprains are the mildest type of sprain. Ask your doctor about manganese and other supplements before using them to treat your ligament injury.

Ligament Injuries

Sprains, along with muscle tears, or strains, are among the most common musculoskeletal injuries. According to the U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics, sprains and strains were responsible for 41 percent of workplace injuries and illnesses causing lost work days in 2005. Ligament injuries may be caused by numerous factors, including rapid changes in direction, landing inappropriately after a jump and direct blunt force trauma. Pain, tenderness, decreased range of motion and difficulty walking are among the most common symptoms associated with ligament injuries.

About Manganese

Manganese is an essential trace mineral required by your body. Manganese is involved in numerous physiological processes and is a component of many enzymes. It is also an activator of certain enzymes. Manganese can be obtained in supplement form, although it is also found in abundance in certain foods, including nuts and seeds, wheat bran, wheat germ, beet tops, tea, leafy green vegetables and pineapples. Manganese is named for a Greek word that means magic, notes the Linus Pauling Institute.

Manganese Actions and Uses

Manganese has long been used in treating various ailments. Dr. Alan R. Gaby, a medical doctor and author of "The Natural Pharmacy," states that manganese has historically been used in treating sprains and strains as well as osteoporosis, Osgood-Schlatter disease, hypoglycemia and diabetes. Manganese helps strengthen wounded ligaments and tendons. Further scientific scrutiny using randomized controlled research trials may be needed to examine the true effectiveness of manganese in treating your ligament problem.

Additional Information

Ligament injuries range from mild to severe and should always be cared for by a qualified healthcare provider. Nutritional supplements, though commonly used in treating this type of musculoskeletal injury, should only be used if you are under the supervision of a licensed healthcare professional. Your doctor can counsel you on the risks, benefits, limitations and potential drug interactions associated with nutritional supplements historically used for this health purpose. Ask your doctor if this natural healing approach is appropriate for you.