For serious athletes and high performers, pushing physical limits often comes at a cost—and one of the most common setbacks is tendonitis. Whether you're perfecting your golf swing, logging high-rep barbell cycles, or hitting the same muscle groups day after day, overuse can lead to inflammation of the tendons, resulting in pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. While rest, ice, and rehab play a role in recovery, this article explores the best evidence-based supplements for tendonitis—proven options that can reduce inflammation, support tissue repair, and help you recover faster so you can get back to training at full capacity.

In this article, you will learn the following 

• What Causes Tendonitis
• Common Types Of Tendonitis
• Treatment Options For Tendonitis
• Best Supplements For Tendonitis
• Should I Train or Exercise With Tendonitis?

What Causes Tendonitis?

Often hard to evaluate and diagnose, it’s estimated that 30–50% of all musculoskeletal sporting injuries involve tendinopathies (Khan et al., BMJ). Diagnosis is usually performed clinically, through ultrasound and MRI. Tendonitis is caused by overuse of a specific muscle group, through repeated trauma and stress. This can commonly occur from constantly and repetitively using and training the same muscle groups over and over again.

Overuse and Functional Training Stress

Let’s use high-intensity functional training (HIFT) or CrossFit for example. HIFT is defined as utilizing constantly varied movements, incorporating different types of workouts at assorted durations, with or without active rest periods. HIFT often involves multi-jointed movements, for time (meaning how fast you can complete a set of movements) for as many reps and rounds as possible. Heavy loads, combined with Olympic movements conducted for as many reps and rounds, in the fastest amount of time, will unquestionably create severe physical stress on connective tissues such as the joints, ligaments, and tendons which can lead to tendinopathies (Scott & Docking, British Journal of Sports Medicine).

Risk Factors for Tendonitis

Therefore, the biggest causes and risk factors associated with tendonitis are overuse training, compromised training form, lack of mobility, age, and genetics. These factors either contribute to repetitive microtrauma or impair tissue recovery, increasing the likelihood of tendon inflammation and degeneration.

Common Types Of Tendonitis

Tendonitis can occur in any tendon, however there are more common areas, which are prone to tendonitis than others.

Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)

Commonly known as tennis elbow. This area of tendonitis causes pain in the backside of the elbow and forearm, along the thumb side when the arm is alongside the body with the thumb turned away. The pain is caused by damage to the tendons that bend the wrist back and away from the palm (Nirschl & Ashman, Journal of Sports Physical Therapy).

Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer’s or Baseball Elbow)

Also known as golfer's or baseball elbow. Medial tendon pain from the elbow to the wrist on the palm side of the forearm is caused by damage to the tendons that bend the wrist toward the palm (Walz et al., AJR).

Rotator Cuff Tendonitis

A common form of tendonitis known as biceps tendonitis. It’s a shoulder disorder. It causes inflammation of the shoulder capsule and related tendons (Seitz et al., JOSPT).

De Quervain's Tenosynovitis

This is the most common type of tenosynovitis disorder which causes swelling in the tendon sheath of the tendons of the thumb (Clarke & Lyall, BMJ Case Reports).

Trigger Finger or Trigger Thumb

Another very common type of tendonitis also referred to as a type of tenosynovitis. The tendon sheath becomes inflamed and thickened. This makes it hard to extend or flex the finger or thumb. The finger or thumb may lock or "trigger," hence its name trigger finger (Makkouk et al., Journal of Hand Surgery).

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What Are The Best Treatment Options For Tendonitis?

Conventional treatment options for tendonitis typically involve ways to fight joint pain and inflammation, yet do not modify the physical structure of the tendon through surgical procedure or intervention. Initial treatment often involves Resting, Icing the area, Compression, and Supplementation. In addition to ample rest, anti-inflammatories, and supplements, oftentimes eccentric training is also used for tendonitis repair. Eccentric training, also known as negative training, is a technique that allows the contraction of the muscle in the lengthening phase of an exercise, while under load (I.e. on the negative descent of an exercise, such as the descent or lengthening motion of a bicep curl) (LaStayo et al., Journal of Applied Physiology).

Best Supplements For Tendonitis: Tendon and Ligament Repair

Supplements are commonly used as a treatment or conventional therapy for chronic and acute inflammation associated with tendinopathies. Clinical studies investigating the effects of supplements such as collagen, curcumin, and omega-3 have shown promising results in reducing joint pain and inflammation for tendonitis (D’Andrea & Lucas, Nutrients). Pre-clinical studies specifically addressing tendonitis have shown promising results, yet more research needs to be conducted through human clinical trials to ensure these are the best supplements for healing tendons and ligaments.

1. Collagen

Collagen is a structural protein, specifically a polypeptide containing a mixture of the amino acids glycine, proline, and lysine. As one of the most abundant proteins in the human body, Collagen consists of nearly one-third or 30% of total human protein (Ricard-Blum, Matrix Biology). Collagen is engrained within connective tissue specifically in the cartilage, tendons, muscles, and bones. Collagen is essentially the glue that holds everything together, also making it a great ligament healing supplement.

Clinical evidence has shown that Collagen, specifically hydrolyzed collagen promotes an anabolic or building effect on cartilage tissue, which may help in tendon health. In a prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study conducted at Penn State University 147 collegiate athletes, (72 male, 75 female) were randomly administered 10g of hydrolyzed collagen or a placebo. After 24 weeks, the results showed a significant improvement in joint pain, joint strength, and resilience in athletes who were treated with collagen hydrolysate (Clark et al., Current Medical Research and Opinion). Joint pain and tendon pain can have a dramatic impact on athletic performance.

RELATED ARTICLE: The Ultimate Guide To Collagen

If you’re experiencing joint pain and discomfort from high-impact functional training, or endurance training, we recommend supplementation of 10g of Collagen peptides per day. This can have a positive effect on joint health, mobility, and tendon health.

Swolverine’s Grass-Fed Collagen peptides are unflavored and virtually tasteless with 10g of collagen per serving. You can add a scoop to your smoothies, post-workout shakes, oatmeal, or baked goods to get the extra boost of protein and supplements you need to protect your ligaments and joints. For additional ways of supporting your tendon health, try our collagen soup recipes.

RECOMMENDED PRODUCT: Collagen (35 Servings, Unflavored)

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2. Turmeric (Curcumin)

What Is Turmeric and Why It Matters

Turmeric, specifically the active ingredient curcumin, has been proven to be a powerful anti-inflammatory agent. Research has shown that curcumin is a highly active molecule that modulates the inflammatory response by inhibiting the production of inflammatory cytokines. This is especially beneficial to those athletes who experience chronic or acute inflammation from overuse and overtraining. Efficiently reducing inflammation can promote faster recovery and reduce post-workout pain and inflammation, which translates into more training and better performance. Tendonitis is associated with inflammation due to repetitive activities, therefore Turmeric could be one of the best supplements for tendonitis and in the prevention of inflammation (Jurenka, Alternative Medicine Review).

Turmeric vs. Ibuprofen: Clinical Trial Comparison

In a randomized controlled study on knee osteoarthritis published in the Journal Of Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 367 collective patients were administered 1,500 mg of turmeric or 1,200 mg of ibuprofen per day for four weeks. The results indicated that 1,500 mg of turmeric supplement consumption daily was shown to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties comparable to 1,200 mg of ibuprofen (Shep et al., JEB-CAM).

Clinical Outcomes: Pain, Inflammation & Mobility

The outcomes measured were joint pain, joint stiffness, and functional movement scores. The results indicated that turmeric curcumin extracts were non-inferior to ibuprofen. Both groups showed significant improvement in pain, inflammation, and functional scores when compared to baseline. Improvements in functionality have a direct correlation with better joint health and mobility.

Turmeric Is Just as Effective With Fewer Side Effects

The study concluded that curcumin is just as effective as ibuprofen on knee osteoarthritis inflammation and pain. Additionally, the turmeric group showed lower adverse effects on gastrointestinal health than the ibuprofen group (Shep et al., JEB-CAM). This study shows that turmeric is one of the best supplements for tendonitis and it is just as effective if not more than ibuprofen with fewer adverse effects.

RELATED ARTICLE: Turmeric Vs. Ibuprofen: Which One Is More Effective For Post-Workout Inflammation & Pain?

Additional Study: Curcumin's Efficacy in Joint Health

In another randomized, double-blind trial, 107 patients with knee osteoarthritis were administered either 800 mg of ibuprofen per day or 2 g of curcumin for a period of 6 weeks. Outcomes were measured at weeks 0, 2, 4, and 6 and showed a significant improvement when compared with the baseline values in both groups. The study concluded that Turmeric vs Ibuprofen provides similar outcomes in efficacy on arthritic pain (Kuptniratsaikul et al., Clinical Interventions in Aging).

Absorption Matters: Why You Need Black Pepper

It’s important to note that if you’re considering adding Turmeric to help with joint and ligament health, you purchase a supplement that contains black pepper, piper nigrum, or Bioperine. Turmeric alone has terrible bioavailability and is poorly absorbed. Black pepper enhances the absorption of Turmeric by up to 2,000% (Shoba et al., Planta Medica). Swolverine’s turmeric curcumin capsules contain 750mg of Curcuma Longa with 5mg of Bioperine, for optimal absorption.

RECOMMENDED PRODUCT: Turmeric (750mg 60 Servings)

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3. Krill Oil (Omega-3)

What Is Krill Oil?

Krill oil contains essential fatty acids (EFAs), specifically omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). EFAs have been found to have positive effects on inflammation, decreasing oxidative stress, and enhancing post-workout recovery (Swanson et al., American Journal of Clinical Nutrition). Additionally, Krill oil is unique as it contains the world’s most powerful antioxidant, Astaxanthin.

Anti-Inflammatory Benefits of Astaxanthin

Several studies have shown that Astaxanthin has powerful anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce systemic inflammation and promote healthier joints and mobility (Fassett & Coombes, Marine Drugs).

Clinical Research on Omega-3 for Pain Reduction

In a study conducted at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, 125 patients who were diagnosed with nonsurgical neck or back pain were administered 1,200–2,500 mg of Omega-3 fatty acids per day. After 75 days, 59% discontinued taking their prescription NSAID medications for pain. Sixty percent stated that their overall pain had improved, and 60% stated that their joint pain had improved. Eighty percent stated they were satisfied with their improvement, and 88% stated they would continue with Omega-3 supplementation. This study concluded that Omega-3 supplementation demonstrated an equivalent effect in reducing arthritic pain as does ibuprofen (Maroon & Bost, Surgical Neurology).

How Krill Oil Reduces Joint Pain

Krill oil helps reduce joint pain and arthritic symptoms by directly reducing the amount of C-reactive protein in the blood—a protein made by the liver in response to inflammation. Therefore, if you’re experiencing post-workout joint pain, or exhibit mild arthritic symptoms, krill oil can potentially help reduce pain and joint discomfort (Ulven & Holven, Lipids in Health and Disease).

RELATED ARTICLE: 14 Studies That Prove Krill Oil Is Better Than Fish Oil For Athletes

Why Krill Oil Absorbs Better Than Fish Oil

When looking for an Omega-3 supplement, the best omega supplement is Krill Oil. Krill Oil naturally contains Astaxanthin, and when compared to Fish Oil, Krill Oil has a much faster absorption rate. Krill oil has been shown to be absorbed 68% better than fish oil (Schuchardt et al., Lipids in Health and Disease). It can be broken down in only 2–3 hours, whereas Fish Oil is utilized between 48–72 hours. Swolverine’s Krill Oil contains 500mg per serving, to help with joint pain and improve overall health and wellness.

RECOMMENDED PRODUCT: Krill Oil (500mg, 60 Servings)

Should I Train Or Exercise With Tendonitis?

Tendonitis can affect several different parts of the joints and ligaments. The most common overuse areas are the elbows, wrists, ankles, hips, and knees. Training or exercising while you have tendonitis is okay so long as you are not training the affected areas and/or exacerbating symptoms.

How Do I Prevent Tendonitis?

Preventative action and care are the best measures to take for any type of injury prevention. Daily supplementation with Turmeric, Omega-3, and Collagen will help keep your joints, ligaments, and tendons healthy and strong, to perform and keep performing at your highest potential, by relieving post-workout inflammation and joint pain. Additionally, focus should be placed on mobility training, while upholding proper form and technique. Emphasis on recovery is also vital to ensure optimized performance for the following training sessions.

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Conclusion: Are Supplements Effective for Tendonitis?

The Bottom Line on Natural Support for Joint Health

Tendonitis can significantly disrupt your training routine, athletic performance, and daily quality of life. While rest, mobility work, and proper training mechanics are essential for recovery and prevention, research suggests that supplementation can offer powerful support in managing and alleviating the symptoms of tendonitis.

The Most Effective Supplements for Tendonitis

Among the most well-researched and effective supplements are collagen, turmeric (curcumin), and omega-3 fatty acids from krill oil. Each offers unique anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and tissue-repairing benefits:

• Collagen supports structural integrity and regeneration of tendons and ligaments, promoting joint resilience (Clark et al., Current Medical Research and Opinion).

• Turmeric contains curcumin, which has been shown in clinical trials to reduce joint pain and inflammation as effectively as NSAIDs but with fewer side effects (Shep et al., JEB-CAM).

• Krill Oil provides highly bioavailable omega-3s and astaxanthin to reduce systemic inflammation and improve joint function (Maroon & Bost, Surgical Neurology).

Optimize Recovery and Performance

Combining these supplements with proper recovery strategies—including icing, compression, rest, and eccentric training—can significantly enhance your body’s ability to recover from tendonitis. Whether you're an athlete, a fitness enthusiast, or someone experiencing chronic overuse symptoms, daily joint support through evidence-based supplementation may help you heal faster, reduce pain, and get back to peak performance.

Looking for the best supplement to help with your tendonitis?

 

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References 

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• Kaux, Jean-François et al. “Current opinions on tendinopathy.” Journal of sports science & medicine vol. 10,2 238-53. 1 Jun. 2011
• Fusini, Federico et al. “Nutraceutical supplement in the management of tendinopathies: a systematic review.” Muscles, ligaments and tendons journal vol. 6,1 48-57. 19 May. 2016, doi:10.11138/mltj/2016.6.1.048
• Daily, James W et al. “Efficacy of Turmeric Extracts and Curcumin for Alleviating the Symptoms of Joint Arthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials” Journal of medicinal food vol. 19,8 (2016): 717-29.
• Kuptniratsaikul V, Dajpratham P, Taechaarpornkul W, et al. Efficacy and safety of Curcuma domestic extracts compared with ibuprofen in patients with knee osteoarthritis: a multicenter study. Clin Interv Aging. 2014;9:451–458. 
• Perkins, Kimberly et al. “Efficacy of Curcuma for Treatment of Osteoarthritis”Journal of evidence-based complementary & alternative medicine vol. 22,1 (2016): 156-165.
• Suokas AK, Sagar DR, Mapp PI, Chapman V, Walsh DA: Design, study quality and evidence of analgesic efficacy in studies of drugs in models of OA pain: A systematic review and a meta-analysis. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2014;22:1207–1223  
• Schnitzer TJ: Update on guidelines for the treatment of chronic musculoskeletal pain. Clin Rheumatol2006;25 Suppl 1:S22–S29
• Kuptniratsaikul V, Thanakhumtorn S, Chinswangwatanakul P, Wattanamongkonsil L, Thamlikitkul V.Efficacy and safety of Curcuma domestica extracts in patients with knee osteoarthritis. J Altern Complement Med. 2009;15:891–897.
• Miyachi, Masashiro et al. “Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Astaxanthin in the Human Gingival Keratinocyte Line NDUSD-1.” Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition3 (2015): 171–178. PMC. Web. 21 Aug. 2017.