Osteo Arthritis is the most common condition, affecting the weight bearing joints (e.g. knees, lower back, hips, etc.), often described as “Wear and Tear Arthritis”.

In human body the ends of the bones in normal joints are covered with a smooth, slippery tissue called cartilage, which provides protection to our bones. Joints also contain a fluid called synovial fluid, which acts as a cushion or "Shock Absorber" and lubricates the joint. In people with osteoarthritis, the synovial fluid becomes thinner and loses its elasticity. The thinner synovial fluid does not provide a good cushion. For this reason, the cartilage covering the ends of the bones begins to break, which leads to pain and stiffness in the joint. Osteoarthritis is also known as Degenerative Joint Disorder, because of degeneration of cartilage covering the ends of the bones. In Ayurveda this condition is called as "Sandhighat Vata".

This condition can be a very mild disease or a severe disease that greatly limits everyday activity. For example, if patient has Osteoarthritis of the knee, patient may feel pain and swelling in the knee area and pain gets worse during movement of the knee. Patient may feel or hear crunching or cracking sounds on movement of joints. X-rays usually confirm diagnosis.

Ayurvedic Science is based on the principles of Bio-energy. There are three types of Bio-energies or Doshas called Vata, Pitta and Kapha, which control metabolism and all other functions of human body. The equillibrium of the Doshas provide complete health and imbalance of these Doshas lead to various disorders. Osteo Arthritis (Sandhighat Vata) is a Vata disorder in which excessive Vata energy causes dryness in the joints followed by Pain, Swelling Immobility and Stiffness of the affected joints.

Ayurvedic Therapy in Osteo Arthritis not only prevents further deterioration in the joints but also rejuvenates the damaged cartilages. Ashwagandha, Guggul and Shilajit, one capsule or tablet each twice a day with large glass of water for six months produce excellent results in Osteoarthritis. These herbs do not cause any side effect even for long-term use. As acute pain may not be felt in every case of degeneration, one must think of starting treatment at the very initial stage.

Ayurveda & Keraliya Panchakarma Increases Mobility and Decreases Disability in Osteo Arthritis. The Therapies include: Abhyangam, Swedam, Elakizhi, Pizhichil, Navarakizhi, Janu vasthi, Virecanam, Matra vasthi etc. These differ from person to person and are decided by a Specialist Ayurvedic Physician according to the Age, Severity, Intensity, and Disability of the patient.

Ayurvedic Diets and Life Styles are selected as per constitution of the individual. One should avoid being Overweight, because excess Weight increases the load on the Joints. Regular exercises of Knee Joints help the patient to remain fit.

Dr. Kranthi’s Ayurvedic Land… THE KERALA AYURVEDIC CARE, Speciality Panchakarma Centre, Skyline Theatre Lane, Basheerbagh, Hyderabad- are the pioneers in Kerala Ayurveda Panchakarma- established in 1999 with an aim of providing genuine health care. We are instrumental in successfully treating the Chronic Ailments like Osteo Arthritis, Sciatica, Slip disc, Neuro muscular diseases, Cervical & Lumbar Spondylosis, Degenerative disc diseases and severe Spinal conditions. We have a track record of treating more than 20000 patients till todate.

Contact Dr. R. Kranthi Vardhan, Chief Physician & Managing Director on 98666 66055/92461 66636/ 66101140 all days from 8 am- 8 pm.

Published in THE HINDU News Paper on Thursday 23rd June,2005 Written by Dr. R. KRANTHI VARDHAN, Chief Physician & Managing Director, THE KERALA AYURVEDIC CARE, Speciality Panchakarma Centre, Basheerbagh, Hyderabad-29. Andhra Pradesh. India. Ph:092461 66636  098666 66055.