Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is common degenerative joint disorder characterized by breakdown of the cartilage (the tissue that cushions the end of bones between joints), bony changes of joints, deterioration of tendons ligaments and various degrees of inflammation joint lining called synovium. It is usually termed as ‘wear and tear’ arthritis. With OA, the cartilage within a joint begins to breakdown and the underlying bone begins to change. These changes usually develop slowly and get worse over time.

OA can cause pain,stiffness and swelling. In some cases, it also causes reduced function and disability, sometimes performing day-to-day activities also become impossible.

Symptoms:

In the early stages, a person may have no symptoms.Symptoms, when they do show up, may occur in one or more joints and they tend to appear gradually. Symptoms include:

• Pain and stiffness that worsens after not moving the joint for a while
• Swelling
• Difficulty in moving affected joint
• Loss of muscle bulk
• A grating or crackling sound in the joint,known as crepitus

Osteoarthritis can be correlated to SandhigataVata according to Ayurveda. Deranged Vata among three Doshas, is the main culprit behind SandhigathaVata.Aggravation of Vata in the bones and bone narrow driesthe joints and gives rise to cracking of bones and joints, piercing pain in the joints, diminution of muscles tissues and strength, causing weakness and pain.

Treatments:

3 to 6 weeks of admission is needed, depending upon the severity of the condition. Treatment protocol include:

• Patient and family education
• Ayurveda panchakrama therapy
• Ayurveda internal medications
• Yoga
• Physiotherapy
• Lifestyle modification
• Regular therapeutic exercises

What to expect after the treatment program:

1. Retarding the disease process.
2. Reduction in pain of the affected joint.
3. Reduction of swelling.
4. Reduction of tenderness.
5. Increased flexibility of the joint.
6. Increased muscle strength of the joint.
7. Improved quality of life.

Follow-Up:

Usually, follow-up treatment is advised after a gap of 6 to 9 months, depending upon the condition of the individual patient. 3 such courses may be needed.

Please note:

Response to the treatment varies from patient to patient depending upon the duration of the illness, severity, stage and other co-morbid conditions.

Patients above the age of 70 years may or may not get the desired results owing to old age.

Patients having Cardiac (heart) problems and / or Renal (Kidney) problems may not be considered for treatment at our Institution.

Patients having Psychiatric / Psychological issues may not be able to achieve the desired results.