Vigour – Health and Sports Nutrition

Patellofemoral Syndrome, also known as Chondromalacia Patella, is a medical condition that is characterized by an abnormal softening of the cartilage of patella. It is quite common among people aged 45 and above, however it can strike at any age. It makes the most common cause of chronic knee pain.

The typical symptoms of chondromalacia patella include swelling of the knee area, tightness in the knee and pain in the inner knee area that is aggravated by running, climbing, descending stairs and prolong sitting. If left untreated, patellofemoral syndrome may weaken the thigh muscle. The people who are at risk for developing this disorder include elderly, runners, sprinters, females, flat-footed individuals, or those with an unusually shaped patella undersurface.

Treatment aims at reducing the inflammation and improving the alignment of the patella. A combination of anti-inflammatory drugs, icing, strengthening of the quadriceps muscle by bicycling or swimming, stretching, and avoiding motions which irritate the kneecap helps patients recover fast and return at full functional level.

Sufferers of patellofemoral syndrome should also use a dietary supplement that helps maintain the health of joints and cartilage. Health Perception Glucosamine High Strength 750mg is a popular brand on the market that contains glucosamine in its formulation. Glucosamine is an amino sugar that is formed in the body from glucose. It helps rebuild the structures such as cartilage, ligaments and tendons. This supplement is free from yeast, sodium salt, artificial preservatives, gluten and lactose. Take one tablet twice a day with meals.

Bambousa arundinacea is a species of bamboo that is native to China, India, Bengal and Indonesia. Its stem contains organic silica that has been used in the preparation of medicines for thousands of years.

Silica makes an important constituent of your body’s connective tissues such as tendons, ligaments, cartilage and arteries. Research shows that organic silica strengthens bones, teeth, nails, hair and arterial walls. It helps rebuild collagen and elastin connective tissues and relieves the symptoms of numerous skin disorders such as eczema, vitiligo and psoriasis. Researchers believe that silica reduces the inflammation and pain related to rheumatoid arthritis. Silica also helps prevent cardiovascular problems particularly congestive heart failure and arterial disease.

Silica plays an important role in the development and growth of bones. It enhances the function of minerals such as boron, calcium, potassium, magnesium and iron. A silica deficiency often leads to a calcium deficiency which, in turn, results in bone demineralization and osteoporosis.

Consumption of a dietary supplement that makes use of silica in its formulation helps you maintain the health of your joints and cardiovascular system. Arkopharma Arkocaps Bamboo Gum is a popular brand on the market that contains the siliceous concentration of the bamboo stem. It exhibits remineralising properties and stimulates the synthesis of collagen in the bones and connective tissues. It helps in reconstitution of cartilage and helps prevent bone loss during menopause. Arkocaps contains 65% silica and has a beneficial action on the joints. Take one capsule morning, noon and evening during meals.