What is it?
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of joint wear. It mainly affects the weight-bearing joints (knees and hips), the finger joints and the joints of the spine. Ayurveda calls it Sandhigata Vata.
Common symptoms
- Pain that gets worse with use and eases with rest
- Stiffness after sitting for a while
- Bony bumps on the finger joints
- A crackling sound in the joint
Common causes
- Increasing age
- Body weight
- Old injuries
- Overuse of the joints
How we treat it
After examining you, the doctor chooses from these according to your needs.
- Janu BastiWarm medicated oil is held over the knee inside a ring of dough for a set time.
- Snehana and SwedanaMedicated oil massage followed by controlled herbal steam.
- Patra PotliA warm bundle of medicinal leaves pressed over the painful area.
- Basti therapyAnuvasana (oil) and Niruha (decoction) basti, the main therapy in Ayurveda for Vata disorders.
- Ayurvedic medicinesSpine- and nerve-nourishing formulations, given only on the doctor's prescription.
- Diet, exercise and yogaPersonal guidance on diet, daily routine, exercise and yoga.
Tests that help: X-ray of the affected joints; blood tests if needed
See a doctor urgently if you have
- A joint suddenly red, hot and very swollen
- Pain that wakes you at night
Everyday care
- Keep your weight in check
- Regular exercise such as walking or swimming
- Keep your joints warm in cold weather
This information is for awareness and does not replace an examination by a doctor.