Osteoarthritis And Its Management In Ayurveda

Abstract

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative and progressive condition of bony cartilage. It usually comes in view most commonly in older ages but may occur at any age as due to certain risk factors. As per ayurveda it is correlated to sandhigata vata. In this study we are going to discuss all about osteoarthritis, its symptoms, causes, risk factors and treatment options. Also we are going to discuss the ayurvedic view of osteoarthritis and its ayurvedic management. Along with that in brief we will also discuss a joint support pack by planet Ayurveda for OA management.

Introduction

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common condition among all the disorders included under conditions related to synovial joints. The condition is characterized by degenerative and progressive changes in articular cartilages for long terms. It particularly occurs in weight bearing body joints. A joint is a junction where two bones meet together and the cartilage is a protective covering that aligns the bony ends. With osteoarthritis this cartilage got torn and caused the bony frictions (bones to rub together). This can cause stiffness, pain, and other symptoms. This condition may occur in any of the synovial joints but most commonly occur in these certain joints- fingers, hands, shoulders, hips and knees. It occurs most commonly in old age and can occur at any age. As per ayurveda it is known as sandhigata vata- the most common vata vyadhi with growing ages.

Symptoms Of Osteoarthritis

Symptoms of osteo-arthritis may develop slowly but worsen as the time passes. symptoms of osteoarthritis includes the below list:

• Pain: It is the first symptom that comes into view.
• Loss of flexibility: Full range of movement is affected.
• Stiffness: Mainly occurs after some time of inactivation.
• Tenderness: You may feel some tenderness when you touch or apply little bit of pressure over or near the affected joint area.
• Grating Sensation: On moving the particular affected joint you might feel a grating sensation with popping or crackling sound.
• Bone Spurs: Around the affected joint some bony hard lumps may form which are known as bone spur.
• Swelling: The soft tissues around the joints may cause swelling.

Causes Of Osteoarthritis

With osteoarthritis cartilage got torn and all the above symptoms come into view.. A joint is a junction where two bones meet together and the cartilage is a protective covering that aligns the bony ends. With osteoarthritis this cartilage got torn and caused the bony frictions (bones to rub together) and it affects the whole joint. And it may lead to bone changes and deterioration in the connective tissues which are holding the whole joint together. As such cause is not mentioned for osteoarthritis but there are some risk factors that are responsible for osteoarthritis.

Risk Factors For Osteoarthritis

• Older Age: Occurs most often as much as the age grows.
• Sex: Most commonly occurs in women but the fact is not clear why it occurs in women commonly.
• Obesity: As we studied earlier it is the weight bearing condition so as much as the weight of the patient the condition occurring possibility becomes higher with that.
• Repeated Stress on the Joint: If your day to day life causes repetitive stress over a specific joint then it may increase the risk of osteoarthritis in you.
• Joint Injuries: Joint injuries may lead to osteoarthritis such as from an accident while playing. Also some injuries that occur in earlier life may lead to this degenerative condition.
• Bone Deformities: Few people are born with defective cartilage or malformed joints so these are at the higher risk of having OA.

Ayurvedic View Of Osteoarthritis

As discussed earlier osteoarthritis is correlated to sandhigata vata that is one among the vata vyadhi. In this vyadhi only those joints are involved that are conjointing of bones only. It is found in the people with middle aged and old aged ones. In this disease there is deformity in bones. Here in this disease due to vata dosha vitiation there is shool (pain) in sandhi (joints), difficulty in akunchana (flexion) and prasarana (extension) kriya (movements).

Nidaan (Causes) of Sandhigata Vata

As it is vata vyadhi so the causes must be same as that of vata vyadhi. Let's discuss those causes.

• Dry food
• Cold food
• Less amount of food intake
• Intake of food over digestion
• Astringent, pungent and bitter food
• Excessive intercourse
• Fasting
• Day sleep
• Fear
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Excessive swimming in water
• Excessive weight lifting
• Excessive walking
• Night waking up
• Anger

So, all the above reasons are responsible for vitiating vata dosha and leading to vata vyadhi like sandhi gata vata.

Samprapti of Sandhigata Vata (Pathophysiology Of Osteoarthritis)

After following the above mentioned things in causes; vata dosha got vitiated and move toward joints and while resting there it can cause deformity of that particular sandhi (joint) along with sanayu (nerves) and kandara (tendons) and which in turn leads to sandhigata vata.

Samprapti Ghataka (Components of Manifestation of Disease)

• Dosha (Energy vitiated): vata dosha
• Dushya (with which dosha fuses): Rasa (fluid component), rakta (blood components), asthi (bones)
• Strotas (channels responsible for disease manifestation): Asthi vaha srotas (channels of transportation of material to bones) and majjavaha srotas (Channels carrying bone marrow tissues).
• Agni stithi (Energy of digestive fire): Irregular metabolism
• Vyadhi svabhav (condition of disease): Chronic disease
• Sadhya-asadhyata (prognosis of disease): Prolonged treatment

Lakshana (Symptoms) of Sandhigata Vata

According to acharya charaka (ch. Chi. 28/37) following symptoms are experienced by the patient:

• Heaviness in joints
• Inflammation in joints
• Difficulty in flexion and extension movement of joints
• Crepitation in joints while walking
• Deformity in joints along with nerves and tendons of the particular affected joints.

Ayurvedic Management Of Sandhigata Vata (Osteoarthritis)

Osteoarthritis is curable with proper ayurvedic treatment. First of all we are sharing chikitsa siddhant (line of treatment) for managing osteoarthritis. After that we will discuss some research based treatment options for osteoarthritis. Now lets firstly discuss chikitsa siddhant (line of treatment) for osteoarthritis. According to Bhavaprakash (Bh. Pr. m. 24/259) following line of treatment should be followed:

• Daha karma (Therapeutic heat burn): Daha Karma (therapeutic heat burn) gives instant relief in pain by pacifying local Vata Dosha without any side effects.
• Snehana karma (Oleation Therapy): This therapy involves application of medicated oils and ghee on the affected area which helps in pacifying vata dosha which in turn cures the condition of osteoarthritis.
• Upnaha karma (Application of medicated bandage): Here the medicated bandage prepared with vata pacifying herbs is tied up on the affected joint to alleviate the symptoms of osteoarthritis.

Now we are going to discuss different treatment options as per various researches done to manage osteoarthritis. Here we are going to discuss various treatment options that are compiled by respected Dr. Shrikant Gaur. So now let's take a review on all the 10 treatment researches.

1. A 32 week clinical evaluation: Here we are going through a 32 week placebo clinical evaluation by ayurvedic medications for OA of Knee joint. In this treatment a study has been done with 90 individuals by giving Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Boswellia (Boswellia serrata), Ginger (Gingiber officinale) and Turmeric (Curcuma longa). This study shows great efficacy in symptomatic management of OA of Knee joint.
2. An ayurvedic approach to OA treatment: This research is done by respected Dr. Sheila PateL (MD), medical director of chopra center. In this treatment research the herbs used are Boswellia (Boswellia serrata), turmeric (Curcuma longa), ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Ginger (Gingiber officinale), shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), triphala- amalaki ( Emblica officinalis), haritaki (Terminalia chebula) and bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica)) and guggul (Commiphora mukul ). So this study shows a decrease in symptoms like swelling by preventing the production of inflammatory chemicals in the body.
3. An indegenous approach to manage the osteoarthritis of knee joint: This is the observational study done in the clinical setting with 10 individuals by using herbs such as lakshadi guggul, kalka-patra bandhan (bandaging) and knee traction for one month. The specific results are found in severity of pain, tenderness and movements of knee joint like extension and flexion.
4. An open label clinical study on polyherbal formulation in osteoarthritis of knee joint: In this study research was done with 36 patients and the treatment given to them was in a capsule form which includes kunduru (Boswellia serrata) 130 mg, guggulu (Commiphora mukul) 100 mg, ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) 75 mg, nirgundi (Vitex negundo) 75mg, eranda (Ricinus communis) 60 mg, parijata (Nyctanthes arbortristis) 50 mg and shunthi (Zingiber officinale) 15 mg. These capsules were given at dosage of 2 capsules twice a day for a time duration of 180 days.
5. Ayurvedic medicine as an alternative to glucosamine and celecoxib in the symptomatic treatment of knee osteoarthritis: It has been done for a time duration of 24 weeks on 440 patients. The ayurvedic formulation used in this study was extracts of guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), ginger (Zingiber officinale), amalaki (Emblica officinalis) and Kunduru (Boswellia serrata) along with 2 gm of glucosamine sulphate and 200 mg of celecoxib. The study evaluates significant reduction in knee pain along with promotive movements of knee joint.
6. Benefits of ayurvedic antioxidant supplements: Here ayurvedic herbs are used as antioxidant supplements like turmeric (Curcuma longa), avocado, Boswellia (Boswellia serrata). These herbs were given for 6 weeks of duration and help in pain relief and promoting functions of the knee joint.
7. Chondroprotective (Substances that delays progressive narrowing of joints) potential of fruit extracts of phyllanthus emblica: The study is done in vitro by using ayurvedic formulation of phyllanthus emblica; firstly aqueous extract of unprocessed amla (Phyllanthus emblica) fruit powder is made and then drying up of this extract is done. This formulation significantly reduced the symptoms of osteoarthritis by inhibiting the actions of collagenase type 2 and hyaluronidase (enzymes responsible for osteoarthritis).
8. Clinical study of single open label ayurvedic formulations in osteoarthritis: In this research an open label ayurvedic formulations were used. This study is done with 142 patients upto 12 weeks. Used ayurvedic formulations are vatari guggulu 500 mg three times a day with maharasnadi kwath in a dose of 20 ml with added equal amount of water twice a day along with that local application of narayan taila is done for two times a day and did massage for 15 minutes. So this study shows good evidence of vatari guggulu, maharasnadi kwath and narayana taila in osteoarthritis.
9. Study with a name of effectiveness of ayurvedic treatment approach in knee arthritis: This study is done with ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), and yograj guggul for a time period of 12 weeks with 151 patients. Results show reduction in the symptoms of osteoarthritis.

So these are some researches done with the patients of osteoarthritis with ayurvedic treatment. Through this study you may clearly see how beneficial an ayurvedic treatment for osteoarthritis is. We hope that you people who are suffering from OA must go for ayurvedic treatment. It will be very significant for OA symptoms.

Planet Ayurveda's Herbal Treatment For Osteoarthritis

Planet Ayurveda is a clinic that formulates their own herbal remedies on strict guidance of M.D. Ayurveda experts with great efficacy as these products are made up of 100% pure ingredients without any added preservatives. For osteoarthritis planet ayurveda provides you with a Joint support pack. It includes several herbal remedies like curcumin capsules, bone support capsules, joint aid plus capsules and coral calcium complex. All these remedies are very effective in curing osteoarthritis by pacifying vata dosha, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory effects which in succession reduce symptoms of osteoarthritis like swelling, pain, crepitations in joint, tenderness and all other symptoms mentioned above in this study. So kindly choose this pack for betterment of your health.

Conclusion

In this article we discussed all about osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a condition that is progressive and degenerative in nature and most commonly occurs in older ages but may occur at any age due to risk factors like Obesity, Bone deformities, Joint injuries, Repeated stress on the joint and some other conditions. The main reason which leads to osteoarthritis is cartilage tear which causes friction in the bones of affected joints and causes symptoms like pain, loss of flexibility, stiffness, swelling, etc. Also here we give some review about some allopathic medications but these are having a lot of side effects on long term use. While reading you may come into review of its ayurvedic aspect and effective ayurvedic management of osteoarthritis. At last we explained some research based ayurvedic treatment compiled by Dr. Shrikant Gaur. at last for osteoarthritis planet ayurveda provides you joint support pack with effective herbal remedies that helps in alleviating your condition. And you may seek help from planet ayurveda anytime, we are always available to help you. Must visit our site www.PlanetAyurveda.com for more details about Joint Support Pack.

Ayurvedic Treatment of Osteoarthritis - Signs, Symptoms, Causes & Natural Herbal Treatment

Osteoarthritis is the most common long lasting chronic joint disease. A joint where two bones come together and these ends are covered with a protective layer or tissue is known as cartilage. It is a is a protein that acts as a cushion in between the joints. Osteoarthritis results the breakdown of cartilage resulting chronic pain, stiffness and other symptoms. Sometimes osteoarthritis is called degenerative arthritis or wear-and-tear arthritis. OA affecting approx 27 million Americans. OA commonly affects the joints of hip, knees, spine and hands.

The prevalence of OA is more frequent before the age of 45 in males. In females it occurs more frequently after age of 55. In United States the male and female both are equally affected.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS OF OSTEOARTHRITIS

The sign and symptoms vary with the patients. Osteoarthritis is commonly affects the Spine, hips, hands and mostly weight bearing joints. OA develops slowly and grows with the time.

The symptoms of Osteoarthritis include:

• Pain in joints: Your joints may damage during movement.
• Tenderness of joints: Joints may feel tender when you apply light pressure on it.
• Stiffness of joints: Joint stiffness can be most noticeable when you wake up in the morning.
• Bony growth (Spurs): Bone spurs, which feel like hard lumps, may form around the affected joint.
• Clicking or cracking sound when hand or leg joints bend.
• Mild swelling occurs around the joints.

CAUSES OF OSTEOARTHRITIS

Osteoarthritis caused by joint damage. Idiopathic osteoarthritis i.e. osteoarthritis not occurs from injury or disease, or it is a result of aging of the joints.

Other causes of joint damage include:

• Breakdown of  cartilage
• Dislocated joints
• Ligament rupture
• Joint malformation
• Obesity
• Poor posture
• Family history
• Gender

DIAGNOSIS OF OSTEOARTHRITIS

There are many diagnostic tests for Osteoarthritis; it ruled out after taking medical history and physical examination.

• Blood tests: Blood tests are usually not helpful in diagnosis. Moreover the following tests are helpful for accurate diagnosis.
• Joint aspiration: The experts numb the affected area and insert a needle into the joint to take fluid. The collected FNAC sample ruled out the evidence of crystals in the joint.
• X-RAY: The X-Ray report shows all the deformities of bone joints.
• MRI: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is more expensive than X-rays, but shows better images of cartilage and other structures.

RISK FACTOR OF OSTEOARTHRITIS

There are some factors which may increase your risk of osteoarthritis include:

• The risk of Osteoarthritis increases with age.
• Women are more prone to develop osteoarthritis
• Obesity
• Joint injuries 
• Genetics factor
• Bone deformities

NATURAL TREATMENTS FOR ARTHRITIS

Currently there are a number of alternative treatments available for osteoarthritis. Many people who have OA found relief naturally by changing their diets, lifestyles.

The Ayurvedic treatment gives excellent results when treated at regular intervals with the detox (Panchakarma) and revitalizing therapies combined with internal medications.

There are natural treatments for Arthritis:

1. Weight Loss:

It is the best remedy for maintaining a healthy weight. Obesity increases your risk of Arthritis because excess weight puts pressure on your joints. Your hips and knees bear most of your body's weight.

2. Exercise:

Physical activity is essential for people who have Osteoarthritis.

• Calf and Hamstring Stretches
• Half Squats
• Exercise programs should include aerobic exercise like walking.

3. Acupuncture:

Acupuncture helps relieve pain and disability due to arthritis.

4. Improve Diet:

• Omega -3 foods: Everyone needs omega-3 fatty acids in their diet for optimum health. You may get relief from joint pain.
• Foods high in sulfur: Sulfur contains onions, garlic, asparagus and cabbage.
• Bone broth: These are antioxidants that help lower inflammation, arthritis and joint pain.
• High antioxidant food (especially fruits and vegetables
• High fibrous food

AYURVEDIC ASPECTS OF OSTEOARTHRITIS

According to Ayurveda, Osteoarthritis develops due to imbalance in Vata Dosha in the body. This disorder affects joints, mainly Knees, hips, spine and joints in the hands. The imbalanced Vata dries up the Kapha (Synovial fluid-Shleshak Kapha) in the joints. This disease condition gradually worsens if not properly taken care off. However, Ayurvedic treatment for Osteoarthritis does not cause any side effects and gives longer lasting results.

HERBAL REMEDIES BY PLANET AYURVEDA

Planet Ayurveda offers the best combination of pure herbs Joint care pack which is very effective for the treatment of Osteoarthritis. This care pack contains 100% natural and pure vegetarian ingredients with no additives and chemicals. This pack contains following herbal medicines:

1. Bone Support
2. Coral Calcium Complex
3. Joint Aid Plus
4. Curcumin Capsules

Joint Support Pack

1. Bone Support:

This medicine is one of the most effective that contains calcium rich ingredients and standardized herbs.

The ingredients are:

• Shudh Laksha (Laccifer lacca)
• Suhanjana Beej (Moringa oliefera)
• Hadjod (Cissus quadrangular)
• Arjun (Terminalia Arjuna)
• Praval pisti (Corallium rubrum)
• Mukta (Pearl calcium compound)

Dosage: 2 Capsules twice daily with plain water after meal.

2. Coral Calcium Complex:

These capsules are purely vegetarian and rich in mineral such as Phosphorus, magnesium, silica and vitamin D.

The ingredients are:

• Parval pishti (coral)
• Akik pishti (agate)
• Jawar mohra pishti
• Kamdhudha ras
• Mukta pishti (pearl)
• Giloy satva (Guduchi).

Dosage: 1 Capsules twice daily with plain water after meal.

3. Joint Aid Plus:

This medicine by Planet Ayurveda is dealing with all joint disorders. This product is useful for reducing the inflammation and pain in the joints. These ingredients are:

• Nirgundi (Vitex negundo)
• Shallaki (Boswellia serrata)
• Guggul (Commiphora mukul)
• Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
• Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

Dosage: 2 Capsules twice daily with plain water after meal.

4. Curcumin Capsules:

Curcumin contains Curcumin longa the pure and standardized extracts. Curcumin is effective in reducing the amount of ama (toxins) in the joints as well as helpful in maintaining a healthy immune system.

Dosage: 2 Capsules twice daily with plain water after meal.

Ayurvedic Treatment of Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis (DISH) Disease

DIFFUSE IDIOPATHIC SKELETAL HYPEROSTOSIS (DISH): OVERVIEW

Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) -- also called Forestier’s disease -- is considered to be a form of Osteoarthritis or degenerative arthritis. The condition can be potentially progressive.

Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis is a condition which implies a bony hardening (calcification) of ligaments at the points at which they are attached to the spine. In other words, one of the main characteristics of this condition is the unique, flowing calcification along the sides of the proximate vertebrae of the spine.

Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis is generally linked to tendinitis (inflammation) and calcification of tendons at the point of their attachment to the bone. As a result, the condition can often be a causative factor behind the formation of bone spurs (like heel spurs) in the individuals affected by it.

The exact cause behind the occurrence of Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis is not known. Nonetheless, the condition is commonly associated with the metabolic syndrome; and it occurs more frequently in individuals suffering from diabetes mellitus, obesity and other health conditions which may raise insulin levels in the body.

The risk of developing the condition is typically higher for men as compared to women. Moreover, the condition usually affects older adults, particularly those above 50 years of age; and is also associated with long-term use of certain medications termed as retinoids.

SYMPTOMS OF DIFFUSE IDIOPATHIC SKELETAL HYPEROSTOSIS

Some of the common indications of Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis are:

• Sporadic pain in the areas of the bony changes of the spine
• Stiffness in upper back, especially in the morning
• Mild to moderate pain in the back
• Pain in other affected parts, including elbows, shoulders, knees or heels
• Inflammation of tendons
• Loss of range of motion / difficulty in using the affected joint
• Hoarseness of voice
• Difficulty in swallowing.

TREATMENT OF DIFFUSE IDIOPATHIC SKELETAL HYPEROSTOSIS

The standard treatment for Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis involves the use of anti-inflammatory medications because the condition typically leads to the inflammation of the areas of the spine and tendons. The medications recommended for the condition basically help to minimize inflammation in the affected parts of the body, and to relieve pain.

Some excellent herbal formulations offered by Planet Ayurveda herbal manufacturing company can be very useful in managing the symptoms of Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis. The formulations are prepared from 100% pure and natural herbs; and are completely safe to use because they do not contain any additives, chemicals, or preservatives.

Herbal Remedies for Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis (DISH) Disease

Specifically, Planet Ayurveda’s herbal formulations for Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis include the following products:

1. Boswellia Curcumin Capsules

Boswellia Curcumin capsules are prepared from a combination of two potent herbs --- Shallaki (Boswellia serrata) and Curcumin (Curcuma longa). This amazing herbal product has proven anti-inflammatory properties; thanks to the presence of certain chemical compounds (such as diterpenes, triterpenes and tetracyclic triterpenic) in Shallaki, and the presence of ‘Curcumin’ chemical compound in Curcuma longa.

The use of these capsules can reduce inflammation, provide relief from pain, and manage other symptoms associated with Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis.

Recommended dosage of Boswellia Curcumin capsules for managing the symptoms of Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis: 1 capsules with plain water, two times a day, after meals.

2. Yograj Guggul Tablets

The preparation of these tablets involves the number of beneficial herbs which can together be very effective in strengthening the muscles, relaxing the nerves, and pacifying the aggravated ‘Vata’ dosha of the body.

The herbal components of Yograj Guggul tablets include: Guggul (Commiphora mukul), Amla (Emblica officinalis), Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica), Chitrak (Plumbago zeylanica), Mustak (Cyperus rotundus), Ajwain (Trahyspermum ammi), Sonth (Zinger officinale), Pippali (Piper longum), Gokharu (Tribulus terrestris), Jeera (Cuminum cyminum), Vidanga (Embelia ribes), and Rock salt.

Recommended dosage of Yograj Guggul tablets for managing the symptoms of Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis: 2 tablets two times a day with lukewarm water.

3. Coral Calcium Capsules

These capsules are prepared from the pure and natural extracts of a number of beneficial ingredients including Parval pishti (Coral), Akik pishti (Agate), Mukta pishti (Pearl), Giloy satva (Tinospora cordifolia), Jawar Mohra pishti, and Kamdhudha Ras.

Coral Calcium capsules are useful in maintaining healthy calcium levels in the body, strengthening the bones, maintaining the health of the immune system, supporting the healthy functioning of the heart, and maintaining healthy muscles and nerves.

Recommended dosage of Coral Calcium capsules for managing the symptoms of Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis: 1 capsule twice a day, with plain water, after meals.

4. Hakam Churna

Hakam churna -- also called ‘Tridoshic Rasayan’ -- is a remarkable herbal powder prepared from a combination of several herbs which are widely known to provide relief from pain in legs, relieve pain in the arms, and manage other DISH symptoms.

The herbs used for preparing Hakam Churna include: Chandershoor (Lepidium sativum), Methi (Trigonella foenum graecum), Ajwain (Trahyspermum ammi), and Kalonji (Nigella sativaa).

Recommended dosage of Hakam Churna for managing the symptoms of Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis: 3-5 grams of the churna should be taken with hot water, two times a day, after meals.

5. Aamvatantak Churna

This product is another excellent herbal powder which constitutes a combination of herbs that have amazing anti-inflammatory properties, and can make the muscles strong, along with relieving pain. The herbs used for preparing this powder also have an abundant presence of phytochemical compounds like such as diterpenes, triterpenes, and tetracyclic triterpenic.

The herbal ingredients of this product include: Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Methi (Trigonella foenum graecum), Haridra (Curcuma longa), Sonth (Zinger officinale), Gorakhmundi (Sphaeranthus indicus), and Surnajan (Colchicum autumnale).

Recommended dosage of Aamvatantak Churna for managing the symptoms of Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis: 1/2 to 1 teaspoonful of the churna should be taken two times a day, with plain water, after meals.

CONCLUSION

All the above mentioned herbal products offered by Planet Ayurveda for managing the symptoms of Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis are prepared under the guidance of renowned Ayurvedic experts. These products are prepared from standardized natural extracts of beneficial herbs, and are extremely useful in managing the condition without any side effects.

Contact my assistant to provide you the costing / ordering and delivery information at - costing.planetayurveda@gmail.com or call at +91-172-5214030

Role of Curcumin in Arthritis and Joint Pains

ARTHRITIS AND JOINT PAINS: OVERVIEW

Arthritis is a kind of joint disorder which causes chronic inflammation in one or more joints of the body. The literal meaning of the word ‘Arthritis’ -- derived from two Greek words -- is joint (‘artho’) and inflammation (‘itis’).

Since Arthritis is a condition which affects the joints (that is, the connections between the bones), Arthritis generally leads to pain, and is often a debilitating disorder. There are more than 100 forms of Arthritis, with Osteoarthritis -- which is a degenerative joint disease -- being the most common form of this disorder. Besides Osteoarthritis, the other common forms of Arthritis are Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis, and related autoimmune diseases. The causes of different forms of Arthritis are different, but the symptoms of the disorders and their treatments are almost the same.

Joint pains, meanwhile, refer to a condition in which an individual undergoes a lot of pain due to any damage to the joints, resulting from some kind of injury or disease. Since joints connect the bones and support the movement of the body, pain in joints can lead to swelling; and can be a mildly irritating condition in short-term, and a debilitating condition in chronic cases.

Joint pain can result from several diverse health conditions which can include Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis and Septic arthritis, as well as gout, bursitis, strains, sprains, and other injuries. Although joint pains can affect any part of the body, pain in the knees is the most common form of joint pains, followed by pain in the shoulders and the hips.

Overall, Arthritis is a condition in which the sufferers mostly experience pain in the joints, because of inflammation. Arthritis and joint pains have become increasingly more common disorders affecting the aging population all over the world. Both the conditions can cause pain and discomfort to the sufferers and affect their quality of life.

CURCUMIN: ITS THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL

Curcumin is the yellow pigment which is isolated from the rhizomes of the ‘Haridra’ herb (Curcuma longa). The herb is commonly called Turmeric in English, and Haldi in Hindi.

Curcumin is the main biologically active phytochemical compound in Turmeric powder. The percentage of Curcumin in the chemical composition of Turmeric is nearly 5 percent. However, for research purposes, the terms Turmeric and Curcumin are usually used interchangeably.

In Ayurveda, the medicinal value of Turmeric/Curcumin has been widely known for centuries. As a result of its anti-inflammatory properties in particular, turmeric has been used in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicines since ancient times. The Curcumin compound in turmeric is very beneficial in fighting excessive inflammation and relieving joint pains.

Research has revealed that Curcumin has noteworthy therapeutic outcomes because it is a highly pleiotropic molecule with an exceptional safety profile. The potency of Curcumin in managing several inflammatory diseases and treating joint pains has been proven on the basis of strong molecular evidence which has been published, based on the results of years of research.

The therapeutic potential of Curcumin has specifically been highlighted in recent researches which show that Curcumin can be extremely useful in suppressing the excessive inflammation which causes the breaking down of a healthy tissue inside a joint. Specifically in the case of disorders like Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis, Curcumin has been proven to counteract the inflammatory compound COX-2, which is also the target of the prescription drugs for the two conditions. Moreover, along with regulating COX-2, Curcumin also acts on interleukin 1-beta stimulated nitric oxide, interleukin 6, interleukin 8, prostaglandin E2, and a few more tissue-destructive immune chemicals which are the causative factors behind the destructive process of both the above-mentioned forms of Arthritis.

ROLE OF CURCUMIN IN ARTHRITIS AND JOINT PAINS

Curcumin is considered an excellent natural remedy for Arthritis and joint pains. The effectiveness of Curcumin in managing inflammatory disorders and painful joints has been proven to a great extent in several scientific and clinical studies which have been carried out over the last few decades. Most of these studies have focused on the potential of Curcumin for treating a number of pathological conditions.

The use of Turmeric/Curcumin has been found to be extremely beneficial in tackling the following common characteristics of Arthritis and painful joints:

• Swelling in joints
• Muscle ache
• Fatigue
• Stiffness of joints
• Inability to move/use the limb properly
• Loss of flexibility of limbs and other affected body parts.

Curcumin Capsules of Planet Ayurveda are packed with standardized extract of Curcumin, a principal compound of turmeric.

The benefits of Turmeric/Curcumin have also been noted for bringing about a potential reduction in the subjective experience of pain in muscular disorders and some other diseases. A few studies have also evaluated the effectiveness of turmeric extracts in treating musculoskeletal diseases.

In the last few years, there can been an appreciable increase in the use of Curcumin/Turmeric for providing relief to patients suffering from various ailments, including chromic and long-term diseases. The efficacy of Turmeric has especially been noteworthy in relieving joint pains and Arthritis.

Some of the benefits of Curcumin/Turmeric in managing Arthritis and joints pains have been listed below:

• Curcumin/Turmeric can reduce inflammation because of its anti-inflammatory properties
• It is a proven antioxidant
• It can target a range of arthritic and associated disorders
• The use of Curcumin/Turmeric is very effective in autoimmune conditions
• It is known to possesses anti-arthritic activity
• The progression of Arthritis can be prevented with the help of Curcumin/Turmeric
• It has bone protective properties
• It alleviates Arthritis by interacting with genes
• It can fight infection in Arthritis
• Complications of Arthritis can be controlled with the help of Curcumin/Turmeric
• It provides skin protective benefits in Psoriatic Arthritis
• The side effects of anti-arthritic drugs can be reduced with the help of Turmeric
• Turmeric is better than painkillers and other drugs used for Arthritis treatment
• Pain in Arthritis can be reduced by applying turmeric topically
• Newer formulations of Curcumin are being developed for treating Arthritis.

CONCLUSION

Curcumin contains antioxidants in a large amount which are very helpful to the body in relieving itself of free radical molecules --- the perceived mechanism behind aging, Arthritis, joint pains and several diseases. Curcumin also keeps destructive inflammatory chemicals in check. In addition, Curcumin has proven ability to stimulate the growth of healthy replacement tissue and to stir up a process known as 'chondrogenesis' which facilitates the rebuilding of joints in conditions like Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis.

Planet Ayurveda recommends Joint Support Pack for patients with Arthritis and Joint Pains. Our herbal remedies for joint pain help in quick relief from joint pain and reduce stiffness in joints naturally. Joint pain treatment with the help of herbal supplements has been successful in tapping the incredible benefits of Ayurveda in a natural way. Our herbal products are made from natural and healthy herbs. Herbal remedies of joint pain are a blend of rare Indian natural herbs which have been used for centuries to provide the necessary strength to joints. Our joint pain herbal remedies are effective pain reliever and very fast acting. Ayurvedic herbal remedies made from natural herbs are really helpful for those who have pain in body like joint pains, sprains, spondylitis, back pain, rheumatism, arthritis, and stiff necks. Read more...

Joint Support Pack

Painful Joint Conditions (Rheumatoid arthritis, Cervical Spondylitis, Osteoarthritis & Gout) - Ayurvedic Treatment

When two or more bones meet, joints are formed. Most joints including those of the limbs move freely and known as synovial joints. They are lubricated by synovial fluid secreted by the joint lining. The semi-movable joints like in the spine and pelvis are less flexible but more stable. A few joints such as those of the skull are fixed and there is no movement. There are 6 examples of synovial joints which are classified according to their articular surfaces (where bones meet) fit together and the movements each joint permit.

Joints can be damaged by many types of injuries or diseases including:-

1. Rheumatoid Arthritis
2. Osteoarthritis
3. Gout
4. Cervical Spondylitis

1. RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Rheumatoid Arthritis is the king of painful disorders affecting the musculo-skeletal system. It is a long standing auto-immune disorder that primarily affects the joints. The Rheumatoid affected joints are- usually hot, swollen and painful. After a period of rest, pain and stiffness worsen.

What are the symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis?

• Tender/warm/swollen joints
• Morning stiffness that may last for hours
• Inflammation in the joints.
• Development of the flap in synovium
• Destruction of cartilage (cushioning between the joints)
• Firm bumps of tissue under the skin on the arms (nodules)
• Fatigue
• Weight loss

What are the causes of Rheumatoid Arthritis?

The causes of Rheumatoid Arthritis are not known but immunity plays a major role in its manifestation. There is a condition known as auto-immunity in which body's immune cells invade its own cells. It is like our soldiers fighting against our own people but Ayurvedic perspective of causes of rheumatoid arthritis is slightly different.

The nomenclature "Amavata" which has been derived from the two words-"Ama" and "Vata" seems to have been evolved around 9th century. The main cause of Amavata is altered state of digestion and metabolism caused by unhealthy food habits when there is diminished digestion power. Ayurvedic treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis involves improving digestion, immune-modulation and prescription of Ayurvedic medicines. The disease has been correlated with Rheumatoid Arthritis in modern terms, the cause of which has not been established by the modern system of medicine. Besides some short acting anti-inflammatory drugs or immune-suppressive drugs with hazardous side effects, there is no medicine for its radical cure.

2. OSTEOARTHRITIS

Due to changes in day to day lifestyle, the superiority of human health is falling. Dreadful changes in lifestyle have led to disorders like—obesity, arthritis, diabetes etc. Among these, osteoarthritis is observed commonly in large population. It is also prevalent in young generation. It is a degenerative disease. Osteoarthritis is a wear and tear disease involving abnormalities resulting in degradation of joint, articular cartilage and sub-chondral bone resulting in inflammation, aggravation of pain during and after movement.

Pathology and Physiology of Osteoarthritis

• Due to increased age, synovial fluid in joint gets decreased.
• Due to friction of bony parts, erosion and inflammation of surrounding capsule, breakdown from cartilage is released into joint space.
• Progressive erosions of articular cartilage and formation of bony overgrowth at joint margins due to calcification (osteophytes) in later stages.
• Damage due to less protection by cartilage, cartilage becomes thin and soft due to degeneration.
• Gross deformity and instability of joints.

Etiological Factors

• Overweight (since it puts more pressure on the joints and can cause cartilage to tear between joints rapidly).
• Inflammatory conditions
• Metabolic dysfunction
• History of trauma which leads to misalignment or deformities.
• Hereditary—mostly among females (knee and hand osteoarthritis)

What are the symptoms of Osteoarthritis?

• Pain in joints (major symptom), sharp in nature, burning sensation associated with muscles and tendons.
• Tenderness
• Joint stiffness
• Muscle spasm
• Crackling noise
• Loss of function or morbidity due to locking of joints.
• Sometimes joints filled with fluid.

Diagnosis

• By clinical methods and examination
• In case of trauma, to rule out pathology, X-ray, CT-Scan and MRI are done.

Modern Treatment

• Use of analgesics and steroids
• Exercise
• Weight control
• Physiotherapy
• Surgery

Osteoarthritis According To Ayurveda

Master Charak mentioned the concept of "Sandhigat Vata". According to Charak, by touching the swollen joints, it felt like as a leather sac is filled with air resulting in inability to extend and flex the limbs due to pain. Sandhi (joint) is a site of Shleshaka Kapha. As age increases, Vata dosha in the body increases and Kapha especially Shleshaka Kapha decreases, hence joints become less functional as vitiated Vata gets lodged in Sandhi (joints). Joint is considered as one of the Marma (vital point of the body), knee joint is also one of them. Joint is also among Vranasthana (site of inflammation). According to Ayurvedic treatment point of view, inflammatory changes are most important while considering Sandhi as "Vranasthana". In case of degenerative changes, treatment is given for improving nutrition, in case of obstructed pathology, vitiated Kapha is treated, then Meda (body fat) is corrected, then Vata dosha is treated. In this case, Snehana (intake of oil) or Abhyanga (application of oil) are contradicted in the initial stage.

Differentiating features of Osteoarthritis from Rheumatoid Arthritis

1. Symptoms of osteoarthritis aggravated by humid and cold weather environment.
2. Stiffness generally relieved by movement.
3. Patient feels better with moderate use of joint but intensity of pain increases after prolonged use.

3. Gout

There are many joint related disorders explained in Ayurvedic texts of which grossly Vaatrakt signs and symptoms can be co-related with gout. Gout is known as "Vaatrakt" in Ayurveda. It usually affects greater toe. It is caused due to vitiation of Vata dosha along with blood vitiation. It is the most common cause of inflammatory joint disease in men over 40 years.

What are the symptoms of gout?

The great toe- metatarsophalangeal joint is the site of first acute gout attack in 70% cases. It can also affect ankle, knee, small joints of hand and feet. Sometimes the onset is very sudden waking the person from sleep. The affected joint is red, hot, swollen with prominent veins with severe pain.

Recurrent gout attacks lead to chronic gout. It leads to erosion of cartilage and bones. Severe joint deformities are also seen.

What are the causes of gout?

Uric acid concentration in the body fluids depends upon the balance between purine synthesis and uric acid elimination.
Factors which influence gout and increased uric acid levels in the blood are - renal failure, drugs like - diuretics, lactic acidosis by alcohol, starvation, vomiting, exercise etc.

Purine rich foods like - beer, alcoholic beverages, legumes, non-vegetarian foods must be avoided.

4. Cervical Spondylitis

It is a wear and tear disease which is caused by degeneration of bones, discs- cartilage cushion between the neck bones and joints of the neck. This condition is becoming common in young population also. With aging, the bones and the cushioning cartilage disc start to lose strength. This makes the soft cartilage to expand, thin, slip (known as herniation of disc), touch and irritate the nerves. The degenerating discs also become flat with bridge edge causing nerve irritation. Nerve irritation leads to symptoms like - pain, numbness etc. The stiffness arises because of lack of cushioning between the bones causing a friction whenever neck is moved. This condition is also known as - Cervical osteoarthritis, when the patient has active inflammation causing redness, swelling, increase in temperature etc.

In Ayurveda, a condition known as Greeva graham is explained. It is explained as a Vata condition. Increase in Vata leads to depletion of body tissues. The dryness and degeneration caused by Vata leads to decrease of Kapha dosha. Kapha, mainly Sleshaka Kapha is responsible for cushioning between the joints. Hence, disc degeneration sets in leading to spondylosis.

What are the symptoms of Cervical Spondylosis?

• Pain in the neck
• Muscle spasm
• Difficulty in the usual functions of the neck like—rotation, flexion, extension etc.
• Radiating pain to the shoulder/forearm/arm
• Numbness
• Joint stiffness
• Lack of co-ordination/difficulty in walking
• Headache
• Tingling sensation

Herbal Remedies by Planet Ayurveda

Planet Ayurveda offers a very effective treatment of painful joints. Healthy Joints by Planet Ayurveda consists of:-

1. Bone Support

Bone support capsules of Planet Ayurveda are a blend of amazing herbs with therapeutic benefits. It relieves bone loss and related conditions. These capsules provide natural calcium to bones, thus helpful in low bone density, useful in all kinds of fractures and other bone related disorders.

Dosage: 1 capsule twice daily with water after meals.

2. Guggul Capsules

Joint disorders are due to increased Kapha dosha in the body. Guggul capsules of Planet Ayurveda is an effective weight loss supplement which helps in lowering down over weight without causing any side effects. Planet Ayurveda's Guggul capsules are 100% pure and vegetarian natural supplement.

Dosage: 1 capsule twice daily with plain water after meals.

3. Joint Aid Plus

Joint Aid Plus Capsules of Planet Ayurveda is the best remedy for treating all types of Arthritis. These capsules can be used for pain and inflammations, very effective for spondylitis, effective analgesic for painful joints.

Dosage: 2 capsules twice daily with plain water after meals.

4. Boswellia-Curcumin Capsules

Boswellia-Curcumin Capsules offered by Planet Ayurveda are one of the most effective combinations of anti-inflammatory herbs. This makes Boswellia-Curcumin Capsules as most effective arthritis supplement. The joint pain relief can be seen after using these capsules within 1 day.

Dosage: 2 capsules twice daily with plain water after meals.

Healthy and Happy Joints Pack (Advanced Stages)

Planet Ayurveda offers healthy and happy for the advanced stages of all painful conditions of joint problems. This pack is specially designed by the expert team of Planet Ayurveda to provide relief from the painful joint conditions like - osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, cervical spondylosis, osteoporosis etc. Healthy and Happy Joints Pack consists of-

1. Bone Support

Bone Support Capsules of Planet Ayurveda are prepared from herbs like—Shudh Laksha, Suhanjana Beej, Hadjod, Arjun, Praval Pishti, Mukta. These are the valuable herbs described in Ayurveda for strengthening and supporting of bones and also improve calcium metabolism.

Dosage: 2 capsules twice daily with plain water.

2. Guggul Capsules

Planet Ayurveda offers guggul capsules for pain management and to maintain healthy bones and joints.

Dosage: 1 capsule twice daily.

3. Joint-Aid Plus

Joint Aid Plus capsules of Planet Ayurveda is a herbal formulation prepared from the herbs like—Ashwagandha, Giloy, Guggul, Shallaki, Nirgundi and Saunth. It is a blend of the best ayurvedic herbs that act against inflammations.

Dosage: 2 capsules twice daily

4. Boswellia-Curcumin Capsules

Planet Ayurveda offers Boswellia-Curcumin Capsules for healthy joints. The results are long lasting and the anti-inflammatory effects are permanent. They are useful in osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, cervical spondylosis, ankylosing spondylosis.

Dosage: 2 capsules twice daily.

5. Green Essentials

Green Essentials capsules of Planet Ayurveda are suitable in the treatment of advanced stages of joint problems as they are prepared from chloroplast - green pigment found in the plants which helps to nourish the cells and fight against health ailments. They are known to clear heavy metals.

Dosage: 1 capsule twice daily.

6. Ashwagandha Capsules

Ashwagandha Capsules of Planet Ayurveda are 100% vegetarian. These capsules are useful in debilitating conditions, brings the strength back to the muscles, neck stiffness, joint pains, arthritis of all types.

Dosage: 2 capsules twice daily.

Diet and Lifestyle Management

Diet plays a crucial role in improving joint health and to keep swelling and pain in control. Since Ayurveda believes that the root cause of joint problems lies in impaired digestion and metabolism, so the diet is targeted to improve the same. Include ginger, garlic, long pepper, pepper, buttermilk, hot water, turmeric in your diet. Avoid worsening of joint pain, stiffness and swelling. Avoid worsening of gastro-intestinal health, avoid ama formation (a state of impaired digestion and metabolism), avoid imbalance of Kapha and Vata, which worsen the stiffening, pain and inflammation. Anything that is heavy to digest, takes long time to digest is to be avoided. Avoid curd, frozen foods, spinach, non-vegetarian food. Long term diet restriction is needed. Avoiding natural urges causes increase in Vata which is not good for painful joint conditions. Avoid Oil massage.