Evidence supporting the use of: Cetylated Fatty Acids
For the health condition: Tendonitis

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Cetylated Fatty Acids (CFAs) are a group of naturally occurring fatty acids that have been investigated for their potential use in joint and soft tissue disorders. The primary evidence supporting their use comes from a limited number of small clinical studies, mainly focused on osteoarthritis and, to a lesser extent, soft tissue conditions such as tendonitis. The proposed mechanism of action involves improving cell membrane flexibility, reducing inflammation, and enhancing joint lubrication, which theoretically could benefit inflamed tendons.

One double-blind, placebo-controlled study (J Rheumatol. 2002) demonstrated that topical application of a CFA-containing cream improved range of motion and decreased pain in patients with knee osteoarthritis, but this is not directly about tendonitis. Only a handful of studies (J Strength Cond Res. 2009; J Altern Complement Med. 2004) have suggested possible benefits of CFAs for soft tissue pain, but these studies often include participants with a mix of musculoskeletal complaints (including tendonitis) and are limited in size, quality, and duration. There is a lack of large, high-quality randomized controlled trials specifically evaluating CFAs for tendonitis.

In summary, while there is some preliminary scientific evidence suggesting CFAs may help with musculoskeletal pain, the specific evidence for tendonitis is weak and indirect. Further research is needed to establish their efficacy for this indication.

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