AYURVEDIC TREATMENT OF OSTEOARTHRITIS

INTRODUCTION

In modern world the health complications are increasing day by day. Joint problem is one of the most common problems during these days. This problem is due to various factors like change in lifestyle, irregular eating habits, over exertion, physical and mental stress.

WHAT IS OSTEOARTHRITIS?

It is most common form of arthritis which can damage any joint in body. It affects joints of knees, hands, hips and spine. It mainly affects cartilage. Cartilage is the slippery tissue that covers the ends of bones in joint. In osteoarthritis, top layer of cartilage is broken down and wears away. This allows bones under cartilage rub together. It causes pain and swelling in joint which causes difficulty in movement.

AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVE

According to Ayurveda, it is known as Sandhivata (Sandhi means the joint and vata stands for vata dosha). Osteoarthritis occurs due to aggravation of vata dosha, accumulation of vata in weaker parts of body and causes joint pain. Sandhivata is the condition where activities of vata are increased inside joints because vata is dry in nature, it absorbs fluids from cartilage of joint.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF OSTEOARTHRITIS?

•   Pain in joints while movement.
•   Loss of flexibility.
•   Crepitation sound in the joints.
•   Stiffness in joints after a rest period.

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF OSTEOARTHRITIS?

SOME CAUSES THAT MIGHT LEAD TO IT INCLUDE:

•   Overweight
•   Joint injury
•   Age
•   Genetic defect
•   Gradual deterioration of cartilage

COMPLICATIONS ASSOCIATED WITH OSTEOARTHRITIS

It is degenerative disease that becomes worse with time. Joint pain and stiffness become severe which makes daily tasks difficult.

HOW IS OSTEOARHTRITIS DIAGNOSED?

Osteoarthritis may be diagnosed by physical examination, imaging examination and blood tests which are as following: Physical examination - It helps to diagnose the affected joint that may include swelling, redness and tenderness. Imaging examination - It helps to diagnose the injury in joint. It may include X-Ray, MRI. Joint fluid analysis - Fluid is withdrawn from affected joint with the help of needle. It helps to detect inflammation or any infection that may cause pain.

HERBAL REMEDIES FOR OSTEOARTHRITIS BY Dhanvantary

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DIETARY GUIDELINES

•   Antioxidants rich food should be taken like grapes, onions, raspberries, citrus fruits.
•   Vitamin D rich food should be consumed.
•   Spices like ginger and garlic should be included in diet.
•   Avoid use of alcohol.
•   Avoid use of caffeine.
•   Don't eat fast food.
•   Avoid high fat diet.