Osteoarthritis – Why Try Ayurveda?

In Ayurveda there are two possible root causes

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions of people worldwide. It occurs as the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones wears down over time.

Although osteoarthritis can damage any joint, the disorder most commonly affects joints in your hands, knees, hips and spine. Symptoms often develop slowly and worsen over time. Signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis include:

Pain - affected joints might hurt during or after movement.

Stiffness - joint stiffness might be most noticeable upon awakening or after being inactive.

Tenderness - your joint might feel tender when you apply light pressure.

Loss of flexibility - you may not be able to move your joint through its full range of motion.

Grating sensation - you may feel a grating sensation or hear popping or crackling when you use the joint.

Bone spurs - these extra bits of bone, which feel like hard lumps, can form around the affected joint.

Swelling - this might be caused by soft tissue inflammation around the joint.

Blocked Body Channels

In Ayurveda, the symptoms of osteoarthritis are described, under the header of Sandhigatavata, as having one of two possible root causes:

- degenerative changes (DhatuKshayajanya)

- obstruction of channels (Srotorodhajanya)

DhatuKshayajanya happens due to aggravation of the Vata Dosha, mostly due to old age (Jara), which settles in the joint space and causes swelling, pain, and restriction in joint movement. Ayurvedic treatment focuses primarily on pacifying the Vata dosha, rejuvenating the joints, nourishing bone tissues (Asthi Dhatu), with oiling and sudation (sweating) of the affected joints. Panchakarma is also advised.

Srotorodhajanya occurs because of a weakened metabolism which blocks the body channels. The channels are blocked because low digestive fire causes bad digestion which in turn produces toxic waste of improperly digested food (Ama). This toxin blocks the body channels and so prevents nutrition from arriving at the joint. The joint cannot heal because of lack of nutrition. This as we know causes pain and stiffness in the joints. The problem is also seen in younger patients.

In addition, the body's metabolism may be weakened by various underlying causes such as obesity, indigestion, stress, or the presence of the toxic waste of improperly digested food (Ama).

Rejuvenates damaged cartilage and prevents further deterioration

The good news is that Ayurvedic treatment of Osteoarthritis not only prevents further deterioration in the joints but also rejuvenates damaged cartilages. Our treatment procedure starts firstly with identifying the root cause (Nidaan), and based on our findings, we create an individualised treatment plan. Generally treatment begins by detoxifying the body after which medicines, primarily to reinvigorate digestive fire (Agni), are better absorbed. Then diet and lifestyle is addressed to balance your Doshas.

Ayurveda Family brings you a caring environment to discuss your case face to face with our principal consultants Dr Sagar Vete and Dr Satydeepa Gandhi.

You are also most welcome to read our three blogs (Monthly Focus, Latest News, and Learn More About Ayurveda).

Or feel free to browse our unique collection of Osteoarthritis support remedies such as Antarth Plus, Rumartho Gold, Mahayograj Guggulu, Rumawin, Panion plus, Mahanarayan Oil, Antarth Ointment, and Rumawin Gel. These are natural, absolutely free of side effects, and are available at our online store.