Tendons are the fibrous cords that connect muscle tissue to bones. Tendinitis refers to the irritation or inflammation of any of the body's tendons, though the condition most often occurs in and around the shoulders, elbows, wrists, and heels (see Reference 1). Conventional treatments for tendinitis frequently rely on over-the-counter pain relievers, injections of cortisone around the inflamed tendon, physical therapy, and in severe cases, even surgery. However, treatments are available that utilize natural alternatives to traditional medicine.
Numerous anti-inflammatory herbs are available for the treatment of tendinitis. Turmeric is particularly viable, as it has been shown in some laboratory experiments to be equally as effective as hydrocortisone and phenylbutazone (see Resource 1). Turmeric can be purchased in capsule form, and the typical dosage usually ranges between 400 and 600 mg per day.
Studies have also shown that devil's claw is an effective pain reliever. The drawback, however, is that you must take up to six 500mg capsules per day.
Licorice root offers relief in a form similar to the body's own corticosteroids. It not only decreases free radicals at the affected area, it inhibits enzymes responsible for inflammation. Boil 1/2 tsp. of the herb in 1 cup of water for 15 minutes to brew a tea you should drink three times a day. Be aware that licorice should not be taken if you are pregnant, on diuretics, have high blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid, liver, or heart disease.
MSM, or organic sulphur, is a natural pain reliever, while organic silicon helps promote the body's own healing process. Vitamin C is also essential in the body's production of collagen, one of the main components of healthy tendons.
It is recommended you consult a physician before undertaking an alternative treatment consisting of herbs and/or supplements.
Topical treatments are applied to the skin over the area of inflammation. First, never use heat once you begin to feel the initial pain of tendinitis. Only use cold therapy (see Reference 2). A cold compress made by mixing chamomile oil, camphor, eucalyptus oil, rosemary oil, and lavender in cold water will provide pain relief. After the compress, apply boswellin cream to the affected area. This cream is made from an herb used for hundreds of years to treat pain. Another alternative option is combining 10 to 15 drops of peppermint essential oil with vegetable oil and rubbing the mixture over the sore spot.
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese method of natural pain relief. It relies on inserting needles into the skin to unblock energy pathways, known as meridians, to diminish pain. Several studies conducted by the Cochrane Collaboration have suggested that acupuncture is an effective treatment for tendinitis (see Reference 3). The treatments are most beneficial if done one to three times a week for several weeks. If you have insurance, check your coverage, as acupuncture is covered under some plans.
Lifestyle also plays an important role in treating tendinitis. It is suggested that once you begin to feel pain or discomfort associated with tendinitis, you should immobilize the affected area and avoid activities that would cause pain or swelling. Do not attempt to push through the pain. Resting the tendon is an important component of healing the inflamed tissues. If the pain is affecting your knee, elevate it above the level of your heart.
