Ayurvedic Treatment For Joint Pain

What is joint pain?

Joint pain, or arthralgia, is discomfort or soreness from any joint. 

Joints are structures where the ends of two bones are held together by a joint capsule with ligaments and tendons inserted at the outer surface of the capsule. 

Joint pain can simultaneously affect single or multiple joints and range from mild to severe.

Joint pain can be either due to mechanical joint disease or inflammatory joint disease. 

Mechanical joint pain is characterised by pain and stiffness, causing loss of function. 

Inactivity stiffness (stiffness on the affected joint after resting) disappears rapidly on activity. 

This typically lasts only a few minutes nearly less than 30 minutes), pain in the affected joint on activity, usually improving with rest, and locking of a joint at some point through its range of motion the joint becomes stuck, usually associated with pain and often followed by swelling can be the main features of joint pain caused by mechanical damage. 

Inflammatory joint disease is characterised by early morning stiffness and fleeting joint pain that persists for more than 30 minutes, with recurrent attacks of joint pain. 

Ayurvedic Perspective on Joint Pain

Anatomically, the joint is dominant because Kapha dosha has binding properties with snigdha and slakshna gunas, which keep articulating structures together. 

Moreover, the joint is Kapha sthana Sleshaka Kapha is located in the joint. Functionally, the joint is Vata dominant. 

A healthy joint has a normal Vata Kapha equilibrium. 

Most of the joint diseases are the result of Vata Kapha vitiation. 

In some cases of joint disorders, especially when chronicity at the tissue level occurs, the joint structures may be destroyed. 

Autoimmune mediated joint diseases invariably have dhatupaka. Dhatupaka will gradually and eventually lead to dhatukshaya with vata dominant degenerative joint conditions.

According to Ayurveda, significant causes of joint disease include incompatible food combinations that lead to low digestive fire at the tissue level and foods that cause vata, pitta, and rakta dosha. 

Ama, associated with underlining Kapha vitiation, also leads to joint diseases. 

Mild and severe types of trauma and strain lead to joint diseases. Cold weather can also aggravate joint pain and stiffness. 

Major Disease Process in Joint Disease

1. Ama (accumulated toxins) inhibiting vata in the gut
2. Rakta dushti and vatakopa
3. Ischaemia to bone tissue leading to low bone density
4. Manifestations of osteophytes in degeneration
5. Strain with underlying vata and rakta dushti
6. Kaphakshaya and vatakopa in sandhi
7. Ashtigathavatha and Majjadushti
8. Destruction of joint structures
9. Pathological involvement of tendons, ligaments like soft structures
10. Degeneration

What are the Symptoms of Joint Pain?

The major signs and symptoms of joint diseases include:

• Pain
• Dull ache
• Tenderness
• Swelling

The next factor that must be considered is the localisation of the site of articular and extra articular features. 

Here are some of the common sites and their associated symptoms:

Joint

• Diffuse pain and tenderness
• Generalized joint swelling
• Restriction of movement, usually in all directions of movement (specific to each joint)

Tendon

• Localised pain/ tenderness at attachment or in the tendon substance
• Swelling
• Pain on restricted action

Ligament

• Localised pain/ tenderness at attachment or in the ligament substance
• Pain on stretch
• Instability: if major tear

Bursa

• Localised tenderness
• Pain in stretching adjacent structures

What are the Causes of Joint Pain?

1. Generalised Pain
2. Infective – Viral (rubella, mumps etc), Bacterial (TB, Staphylococci) Oligos
3. Post-infective – Rheumatic fever, Reactive arthritis
4. Inflammatory RA, SLE, Ankylosing spondylitis
5. Degenerative- OA
6. Tumour-Primary-e.g.osteosarcoma; Metastatic, e.g., tumor from the breast, lungs
7. Crystal formation Gout, Pseudo gout
8. Others – Trauma, fibromyalgia 
9. Localised Pain
10. Tendonitis, e.g., shoulder rotator cuff lesions
11. Enthesopathies, e.g., tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow
12. Bursitis-eg trochanteric bursitis
13. Nerve entrapment- e.g., Carpal tunnel syndrome.

Monoarthritis single joint involvement

Infective– staphylococcus aureus, TB, etc

Traumatic– hemarthrosis

Bleeding diathesis haemarthrosis, such as in hemophilia

Degenerative-acute exacerbation of underlying state

Metabolic- Crystal arthropathies-Gout, pseudo gout

Polyarthritis presenting as monoarthritis- RA

Oligoarthritis (involvement of 2-4 joints)

Degenerative- OA

Inflammatory- psoriatic arthropathy, reactive arthritis, bacterial endocarditis, etc

Polyarthritis (involvement of five or more joints)

1. Inflammatory- RA, SLE
2. Infective- subacute bacterial endocarditis, rubella, mumps, chicken pox, hepatitis B and C

III. Post infective- Rheumatic fever

1. Non-inflammatory-OA, metabolic (hemochromatosis), hypertrophic pulmonary osteoarthropathy.

How to Diagnose Joint Pain?

Inspection

Inspect for inflammation, which is often associated with redness, tenderness, and warmth. Look for swelling, deformity, and overall pattern or joint involvement. 

Palpation

On palpation of a joint swelling- Check first for tenderness and then determine whether the swelling is due to bony enlargement, osteophytes, thickening of synovial tissues, or effusion into the joint space. 

Tendon sheath crepitus is a grating or creaking sensation defined by palpating the tendon while the patient is asked to contract the muscle-tendon complex. 

Joint in hand, seen in RA and systemic sclerosis. 

Joint crepitus is detected by feeling the joint with one hand while it is moved passively with the other. 

Indicate OA or loose bodies (cartilaginous fragments) in the joint space.

Range of movement

Sufficient to estimate the degree of limitation in comparison with the normal side, accurate examination can be done using a Goniometer.

Active and passive movement should be assessed.

Limitation of movement in a joint may be due to Pain, Muscle spasm Contracture, 

Inflammation, Increased thickness of the capsular or periarticular structures, Effusion into the joint space, Bony overgrowths, Bony ankylosis, Mechanical factors such as a torn meniscus, Painful conditions not related to joint

Investigations In Joint Diseases

Blood tests in joint diseases

1. C-reactive protein (CRP) – an acute phase reactant that opsonises invading pathogens. Levels of CRP increase within 6 hours of an inflammatory stimulus and may rise upto 1000- tofold
2. ESR measures the rate of fall of erythrocytes through plasma, and a significant determinant of this is an aggregation of red cells. 

Usually, erythrocytes do not clump together because of their repellent negative charge. 

An increase in positively charged plasma proteins overcomes the repulsive force of erythrocytes, causing them to stack together like tires or rouleaux. 

Increased ESR = acute phase response, increase in plasma protein concentration. 

Serological markers

1. Rheumatoid factor (RF) – consists of different types of immunoglobulins
2. Antistreptolysin- O titer (ASO titer) – ASO is the antibody against streptolysin produced by Streptococcus hemolyticus.
3. Antinuclear factor (ANF)= antinuclear antibodies (ANA)
4. Lupus erythematosus (LE) cell phenomenon-test Lelect phagocytosis of nuclear material by neutrophil seen in active SLE. 

Biochemical tests

Serum uric acid is elevated in gout

Plain Radiography

X-rays can show anatomical changes that reflect critical pathological processes, such as soft tissue swelling, decreased bone density (osteopenia) or increased bone density (osteosclerosis), which may be localised or generalised, bone enlargement and deformity, joint erosion (non-proliferative or proliferative marginal erosion, central erosion), joint- space narrowing (focal-OA, generalised- inflammatory arthritis), new bone formation (osteophyte, entophyte, syndesmophyte) and periosteal reaction, calcification (cartilage chondrocalcinosis; synovium, capsule, ligament, tendon, muscle, fat, blood vessels, skin) and intra articular osteochondral bodies

Bone mineral density (BMD)

BMD measurements can be done mainly for osteoporosis

Synovial fluid analysis (Arthrocentesis)

Gross examination- fluid is green or purulent; a Gram stain is indicated.

If bloody, it is a bleeding disorder, trauma, or traumatic tap. Microscopic examination- identify and distinguish monosodium urate (gout) and calcium pyrophosphate (pseudogout crystals)

Culture-bacterial, for gonococci, tubercle bacilli, or fungi, can be done as appropriate.

How to Diagnose Joint Pain in Ayurveda?

Ayurvedic diagnosis of joint pain primarily focuses on dosha dushya sammorchana, or the interactions between doshas and dhatus (body tissues). 

Since the joint is considered the abode of kapha dosha, the first thing to be noted in the joint is the presence of ama (accumulated toxins), which has properties equal to Kapha doshas, like heaviness, unctuousness, and coldness. 

If there is ama, the affected joint will have the following features: limited movements, swelling, heaviness, coldness, severe pain, etc. 

Without ama, the above features will be less, with more stiffness and joint pain. 

If there is added inflammation in joints, there will be a burning sensation and tenderness. 

Movements like flexion and extension are to be assessed in different joints along with a dosha assessment. 

If there is more kapha vitiation, stiffness is generally seen. 

In vatika conditions, constriction of the affected part is a common observation. 

In advanced cases of degeneration, as in osteoarthritis, there will be crepitus while palpating the joint. 

On clinical examination of doshas, a painful joint can be a vata symptom, tenderness in the joint can be pitta, swelling in the joint can be kapha, and swelling in joints and limbs can be kapha and ama.

Redness and temperature in joint can be due to pitt and rakta dosha involvement. 

Pain and Stiffness in the joint can be due to Vata and Kapha Doshas. 

Pain and Tenderness in the joint can be of vata and pitta dosha, whereas pain and swelling in the joint can be of Vata and Kapha. 

If it is numbness and heaviness on or near a joint, then kapha may be the culprit. 

Ayurvedic Interpretations of modern investigations in joint diseases

Most investigations done in joint diseases reflect the nature of Ayurvedic samprapti (disease process). 

Acute phase reactant tests can identify rakta dhatu (blood) changes.

Investigations like ESR and CRP can quickly identify the extent to which the disease has spread to various body tissues. 

Increased ESR and CRP support disease progression into deeper body tissues. 

Rakthadushti, in terms of autoimmune relation, can be identified by other serological tests. 

Acute phase reactants are good laboratory markers of Ama in joint diseases. 

RA factor, ASO, and ACCP-like investigations indirectly reveal damage at specific dhatus. 

Radiological tests often give a clear idea of bone status in degenerative cases. 

Imaging techniques quickly diagnose the chronicity regarding the stages of the diseases with bone involvement. 

What are the Different Types of Joint Pain?

There are over 100 different types of arthritis and related disorders. 

The most prevalent kinds include Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis, fibromyalgia, and gout. Arthritis and related disorders can produce severe, life-altering pain in various ways. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than one-third of adults with arthritis state that it hinders their leisure activities and work, and 25% experience severe pain (seven or higher on a zero-to-ten scale).

Rheumatoid Arthritis ( RA)

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation of the synovial membrane in joints, driven by the body’s immune system. It is the most common inflammatory arthritis, particularly affecting women.

In RA, persistent cellular activation, autoimmunity, and immune complexes at joint and extra-articular sites lead to chronic inflammation. This inflammation results in joint destruction, granuloma formation, and lymphocyte, plasma cell, and macrophage infiltration.

RA typically presents with persistent synovitis, causing the insidious onset of joint inflammation with symptoms such as malaise, weight loss, and periarticular pain or stiffness. 

Read more about Ayurvedic Treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA)

Osteoarthritis is also called osteoarthrosis and degenerative joint disease. 

It is caused mainly by the wear and tear of the joints.

The presence or absence of Heberden’s nodes on the distal interphalangeal joints helps distinguish various forms of primary osteoarthritis, namely, the nodal and non-nodal types. 

The knees, cervical spine, lumbar spine, hips, shoulders, and distal interphalangeal joints are most frequently affected. 

Read More About Ayurvedic Treatment for Osteoarthritis

Gout

Gout is caused by a disorder of purine metabolism, which results in hyperuricemia and the deposition of urate crystals in the synovium. 

Hyperuricemia values above 7 mg/dL (normal plasma level of uric acid = 2-7 mg/dL). 

It is clinically manifesting as recurrent acute arthritis, progressing to chronic deforming arthritis. 

Primary or Genetic gout occurs due to the overproduction or underexcretion of uric acid, whereas secondary gout occurs due to the increased breakdown of cellular nuclei in malignant disease, especially when treated with anticancer drugs. Several inborn errors of metabolism lead to the overproduction of uric acid.

Read More about Ayurvedic Treatment for Gout 

Tennis Elbow or Lateral Epicondylitis

 “Tennis elbow” is a common term for a condition caused by overuse of arm, forearm, and hand muscles that may result in elbow pain. 

Abrupt pronation may lead to pain and tenderness over the lateral epicondyle. 

Possibly due to a sprain of the radial collateral ligament or tearing of fibers of the extensor carpi radialis brevis muscle. 

The pathophysiology of lateral epicondylitis is degenerative.

Symptoms include pain slowly increasing around the outside of the elbow. Less often, pain may develop suddenly. Pain is worse when shaking hands or squeezing objects. Pain is made worse by stabilizing or moving the wrist with force. Examples include lifting, using tools, opening jars, or even handling simple utensils such as toothbrushes, knives, and forks.

Systemic lupus Erythematosus

A chronic autoimmune connective tissue disease that can affect any part of the body. 

The immune system attacks the body’s cells and tissue, resulting in inflammation and tissue damage. 

It damages any organ, including the kidney, skin, blood cells, and the nervous system. 

The site of lesions in SLE can be the Heart, Joints, Skin, Lungs, Blood vessels, Liver, Kidneys, and Nervous system. 

SLE occurs mainly in young women. 

There will be a rash over areas exposed to sunlight; joint symptoms are common among 90% of patients. 

Mostly, there is multiple system involvement.

Early features include common initial and chronic complaints, including fever, malaise, joint pains, myalgias, fatigue, and temporary loss of cognitive abilities. 

Hair loss, mainly frontal, with short, broken hairs. Musculoskeletal manifestations. 

Joint pain usually affects the small joints of the hand and wrist, although all joints are at risk. 

Unlike rheumatoid arthritis, lupus arthritis is less disabling and usually does not cause severe destruction of the joints. 

Fewer than 10% of people with lupus arthritis will develop deformities of the hands and feet. 

American College of Rheumatology (ACR) has introduced criteria to identify patients for clinical studies; a person has SLE if any 4 out of 11 symptoms are present simultaneously or serially on two separate occasions. 

1. Serositis: Pleuritis or pericarditis 
2. Oral ulcers (includes oral or nasopharyngeal ulcers 
3. Arthritis: non-erosive arthritis of two or more peripheral joints, with tenderness, swelling, and effusion. 
4. Photosensitivity (exposure to ultraviolet light causes skin rash,or other symptoms 
5. Blood-haematological disorder-hemolytic anemia or leucopenia, lymphopenia or thrombocytopenia 
6. Renal disorder: More than 0.5g per day of protein in the urine or cellular casts seen in urine under a microscope; 
7. Antinuclear antibody test positive 
8. Immunologic disorder: Positive anti-Smith, anti-ds DNA, antiphospholipid antibody. 
9. Neurologic disorder: Seizures or psychosis. 
10. Malar rash (rash on cheeks); 
11. Discoid rash (red, scaly patches on the skin that cause scarring) 

Psoriatic Arthritis

A type of inflammatory arthritis that affects around 10 to 30% of people suffering from the chronic skin condition psoriasis. 

It can develop at any age; however, on average, it appears about ten years after the first signs of psoriasis. 

Men and women are equally affected by this condition. In about one in seven cases, the arthritis symptoms may occur before any skin involvement. 

In addition to causing joint inflammation, psoriatic arthritis can cause tendinitis and a sausage-like swelling of the digits, known as dactylitis. 

Clinical features include scaly plaques in the skin, prominent on extensor surfaces, scalp involvement, nail dystrophy, asymmetrical arthritis, and sausage digits.

Frozen Shoulder

Frozen Shoulder, also called Adhesive capsulitis, results from tendinitis involving the entire rotator cuff muscles. 

It presents with upper arm pain that progresses over 4-10 weeks before receding over a similar time course; shoulder restriction is present from the outset but progresses and reaches its maximum as the pain is receding. 

The course of the disease is characterized by an Early phase, marked by anterior joint capsular tenderness and stress pain. 

Later, there is often painless restriction of all movements. 

Etiology and triggering factors include diabetes, rotator cuff lesion, local trauma, myocardial infarction, or hemiplegia.

Cervical Spondylosis

Spondylosis is a term referring to degenerative osteoarthritis of the joints. Osteoarthritis of the cervical spine may lead to degenerative changes. Clinical features include pain in the neck radiating to the back of the head, shoulders, or arms. 

Paresthesia and sensory loss, weakness, wasting & reflex impairment are common. 

Read More About Ayurvedic Treatment For Cervical Spondylosis

Lumbar Spondylosis

Lumbar Spondylosis is a degenerative condition characterized by the stiffening or fixation of the bony building blocks of the spine (vertebrae) due to a disease process.  

Risk factors include past spine injury (often several years before), severe arthritis, past spine injury, and surgery.

The Signs and symptoms include low back pain, sciatica, and tenderness of affected vertebrae. 

Lumbar movements will be limited and painful. 

Pain worsens at night and stiffness increases in the early morning. 

There will be marked postural changes, such as dorsal kyphosis with limited spinal flexion. 

Pain gets worse with repeated movements, such as lifting and bending. 

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS), also known as Bamboo spine or Poker back, is another condition that can mimic lumbar spondylosis. 

In AS, the whole spine becomes a single rigid column with reduced chest expansion (an early feature). 

Low back pain is felt mostly in the morning and increases during rest. There is also tenderness and pain over the insertions of intercostal muscles.

Calcaneal Spur

A calcaneal spur (or heel spur) is a small osteophyte (bone spur) located on the calcaneus (heel bone); a radiological examination typically detects calcaneal spurs.

When a foot bone is exposed to constant stress, calcium deposits build up on the bottom of the heel bone. 

Repeated damage can cause these deposits to pile up on each other, causing a spur-shaped deformity called a calcaneal (or heel) spur. Obese people, flatfooted people, and women who constantly wear high-heeled shoes are most susceptible to heel spurs.

There are 2 types of calcaneal spur: Inferior calcaneal spur and Posterior calcaneal spur. 

The inferior calcaneal spur is located on the inferior aspect of the calcaneus. 

Posterior calcaneal spur develops on the back of the heel at the insertion of the Achilles tendon. 

Major symptoms include pain in the region surrounding the spur, which typically increases in intensity after prolonged periods of rest. 

Heel pain is more severe when waking up in the morning. 

The patient may be unable to bear weight on the afflicted heel comfortably. 

Also, running, walking, or lifting heavy weights may exacerbate the issue.

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a prevalent cause of multiple regional musculoskeletal pain and disability. It is commonly associated with medically unexplained symptoms in other systems. It can occur at any age but shows a progressive increase with age, with a maximum prevalence of 7% in women aged over 70. 

Which parts of the body are affected by joint pain?

Joint pain can affect almost any part of the body where two or more bones meet and form a joint. 

It can vary in severity and may be acute or chronic, depending on the underlying cause. 

If joint pain persists or worsens, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. 

These are some of the most common sites affected.

Knees: 

Knee osteoarthritis is the most common form of joint disease caused by injury, aging, or overuse.

Hips: 

Hip joint pain may result from osteoarthritis, bursitis, or injury.

Shoulders: 

Shoulder joint pain can occur due to rotator cuff injuries, arthritis, or tendonitis.

Elbows: 

Elbow joint pain may be caused by conditions like tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, or arthritis.

Wrists:

Joint pain in the wrists can be due to conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis, or repetitive strain injuries.

Ankles: 

Ankle joint pain can result from injuries such as sprains or strains, arthritis, or conditions like Achilles tendonitis.

Hands and Fingers: 

Hand and finger joint pain may be associated with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or gout.

Feet and Toes: 

Joint pain in the feet and toes can be caused by plantar fasciitis, arthritis, or bunions.

Uric acid and Joint Pain

Uric acid is a byproduct of purine metabolism; purines are substances found in certain foods and beverages. 

Usually, uric acid dissolves in the blood and is excreted from the body through urine. 

However, if there is an excess of uric acid in the blood or the body cannot eliminate it efficiently, it can build up and form needle-like crystals in the joints and surrounding tissues. 

This accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints is known as gout, which results in hyperuricemia and the deposition of urate crystals in the synovium. 

Clinical Hyperuricemia values above 7 mg/dL (normal plasma level of uric acid = 2-7 mg/dL). 

It is clinically manifesting as recurrent acute arthritis, progressing to chronic deforming arthritis. 

Primary or Genetic gout occurs due to the overproduction or underexcretion of uric acid. In contrast, secondary gout occurs due to the increased breakdown of cellular nuclei in malignant disease, especially when treated with anticancer drugs. 

Several inborn errors of metabolism lead to the overproduction of uric acid. 

Gouty Arthritis is caused by the deposition of monosodium urate crystals in the synovium. 

Polymorphonuclear leukocytes ingest the crystals, release lysosomal enzymes, and cause inflammation. 

In the chronic stage, articular cartilage erosion, synovial membrane proliferation, pannus formation, cystic erosion of bones, and secondary osteoarthritic changes develop. 

There is the development of tophi, a nodular urate deposit found in and around the joints and in articular cartilage.

Clinical features can be considered under three clinical stages: Asymptomatic hyperuricemia, Acute gouty arthritis (intensely painful monoarticular arthritis of the metatarsophalangeal joint of the big toe develops within minutes to hours) and Chronic tophaceous gout (acute attack does not remit completely and joints become constantly painful and swollen) Tophi develops as subcutaneous nodular masses around the joints and on tendons in chronic stage. 

The most common site for tophi is around the olecranon, ankles, tendo-Achilles, and helix of the ear and over other joints. 

The presence of positive family history, tophi, and radiological findings can pave the way for diagnosis. 

Serum uric acid levels above 7gm/dL and urate crystals can be demonstrated in synovial fluid. 

Radiological changes include well-developed chronic gout. 

The periarticular bone shows small punched-out erosions due to urate deposits, with superadded osteoarthritic changes. 

The major complications of gout is renal damage cardiovascular manifestations

How does Joint Pain affect the Muscles?

Joint pain can have a significant impact on muscle function, leading to muscle tension, weakness, fatigue, and atrophy. 

Muscle Tension and Stiffness: 

Joint pain frequently causes muscle tension and stiffness in the attached nearby muscles as the body attempts to protect the injured joint from further harm. 

Muscles around the affected joint may constrict or stiffen in response to pain, resulting in decreased flexibility and range of motion.

Compensatory Movements: 

When a joint hurts, the body may change its movement patterns to prevent worsening the pain. This might lead to overuse or underuse of specific muscles to compensate for the reduced mobility of the afflicted joint. Over time, this muscle use imbalance can result in tiredness, weakness, and even injury.

Guarding and Splinting: 

Severe joint pain can cause a protective mechanism called guarding or splinting, in which the muscles around the injured joint constrict automatically to limit mobility and protect the joint from further harm. While this response is designed to protect harm, continuous guarding can cause muscle fatigue, tension, and discomfort.

Muscle Atrophy: 

Chronic joint pain and immobility can cause muscle atrophy or the loss of muscle mass and strength owing to inactivity. 

When a joint is uncomfortable or inflammatory, people may avoid using the affected limb or participate in less physical activity, which can contribute to muscle loss over time. 

Muscle atrophy can worsen joint pain and functional disability.

Referral Pain: 

In some circumstances, joint pain can spread to neighboring muscles, producing further pain and suffering. 

For example, pain in the hip joint may travel down the thigh and impact the leg muscles. 

This transferred pain can cause muscle tension, stiffness, and decreased mobility in the affected area.

What are the Complications of joint pain?

Chronic joint pain can be debilitating and can have complications in the future. These include 

Reduced mobility: 

Persistent joint pain can limit joint flexibility and movement, hindering daily activities and impacting overall mobility.

Joint damage: 

Persistent inflammatory reactions in the joint can damage the synovium and cause joint destruction. 

Muscular atrophy: 

Chronic joint pain caused by inflammation can cause muscular atrophy due to muscle damage or inactivity.

Chronic pain syndrome: 

Prolonged joint discomfort can lead to the development of chronic pain syndromes, which have an impact on an individual’s emotional and mental health.

Joint deformities: 

Untreated joint problems can sometimes cause deformities, compromising the joint’s normal structure and function.

How can inflammation due to joint pain be reduced in an Ayurvedic way?

Ayurveda views inflammation either as a cause,  symptom, or complication of degenerative conditions. 

The common pathway is inflammation due to disturbance in microchannel circulation or diffusion.  

The obstruction of microchannels by Ama (toxic waste of metabolism) is responsible for loss of homeostasis, inflammation, and tissue damage.  

Ayurveda believes Adama is the root cause of metabolic and degenerative disease since it blocks Srotas or micro-channels that nourish tissues. Adama is believed to have antigenic and pro-inflammatory properties. 

It is essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle to reduce inflammation due to joint pain. Here are some techniques for reducing inflammation in the Ayurvedic way.

Sleep well: 

Getting enough sleep is essential to fight inflammation. 

Make sure you sleep for 7-9 hours every night. 

Go to bed and wake up at the same time every night and day, put your screens away well before lying down, and sleep in a cool, dark, and quiet room.

Exercise: 

Exercise every day; go for a brisk walk, or go jogging. 

You can also try yog asanas and pranayama. 

It also helps lower levels of the stress-related hormone cortisol. 

When yoga is a regular part of your routine, you may also feel less depressed and anxious and have fewer symptoms of inflammation, such as high cholesterol and unstable blood sugar levels.

Add spices to your diet: 

Anti-inflammatory herbs may slow down processes in your body that lead to inflammation. 

Fasting: 

Research shows intermittent fasting may be more than just a fad. 

Eating only during a fixed time window each day can have anti-inflammatory effects. 

Long-lasting inflammation can raise your risk for conditions including heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. 

There are many ways to follow this eating plan. 

A standard method involves only eating between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. daily.

Include Salads: 

Stock up on salad fixings. 

Greens such as collards, broccoli, kale, and spinach have antioxidants and other compounds that can help reduce inflammation and minimize day-to-day damage to your cells. 

Ditch Alcohol: 

Too much alcohol can raise toxin levels in your body. This turns on inflammation, which can damage tissues and organs.

Dietary changes: 

Refined carbohydrates, red meats, and fried foods raise inflammation in your body. 

Avoid unhealthy foods for inflammation-fighting fruits, vegetables, nuts, beans, and fish. 

Plan your menu around tomatoes, blueberries, almonds, walnuts, lentils, and salmon.

Loss weight: 

If you’ve got a few pounds to lose, getting rid of them could ease inflammation. 

Excess weight, on the other hand, can make it worse. 

That’s part of the reason obesity and being overweight are risk factors for so many health conditions. 

Talk to your doctor about how you can get into a weight range that’s healthy for you.

Herbal Teas: 

If you have a habit of a morning cup of tea, try green tea, chamomile tea, or ginger tea instead. 

It’s packed with compounds known as polyphenols that fight off free radicals. 

These molecules can promote inflammation in your body. 

Quit Smoking: 

Smoking comes with a handful of harmful effects. Higher levels of inflammation are one of them.

When to seek medical help for Joint Pain

Seek medical assistance if you experience any of these symptoms:

• If the joint pain is severe and persistent, significantly if it interferes with your daily activities or quality of life
• If the joint pain is accompanied by swelling, redness, or warmth in the joint, it could indicate an acute injury or infection that requires prompt medical attention.
• If you experience difficulty moving the joint or notice a decreased range of motion, it may indicate an underlying problem that needs evaluation.
• If associated swelling increases, it could be a sign of an inflammatory condition such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout.
• If a fever accompanies the joint pain, it could indicate an infection or inflammatory condition that requires medical evaluation.
• If you have an underlying history of arthritis or previous joint injuries, and the pain worsens or changes in nature, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional.
• If the joint pain persists for over a few weeks, even after home remedies and over-the-counter medicines, you should seek expert advice.

Ayurvedic Treatment for Joint Pain

Ayurvedic treatment for joint pain consists of herbal remedies, massages, yoga postures, and lifestyle modifications. The primary aim of Ayurvedic treatment is to restore dosha equilibrium, which can be achieved through internal medicines and panchakarma therapies.

Internal medications

Ayurvedic medicine uses a variety of herbs with anti-inflammatory properties to manage joint pain. 

Herbs such as Ashwagandha, Nirgundi, and Shallaki have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that relieve pain and inflammation. 

These herbs can be taken internally or applied topically in oils or poultices. 

Antah parimarjana chikitsa, or internal medicines, play an important role in balancing any remaining doshas. These therapies are effective in treating nerve inflammation, muscle spasms, and other underlying causes. They also strengthen and nourish the entire spine and supporting tissues.

External therapies

Marma Chikitsa, Panchakarma therapies, and Rasayana Chikitsa are essential components of Ayurvedic treatment for joint pain. 

Ayurvedic massage techniques help relax the muscles around the affected area while also improving blood circulation, which promotes recovery and reduces inflammation.

Any vata-vitiated illness should be treated with snehana (oil application) and swedana (fomentation). 

External Treatment methods such as Abhyanga (Oil Massage), Kati Vasti, Greeva Vasti, Prishta Vasti, Dhanyamla dhara, Choorna Pinda Swedan (Podi Kizhi), Patra Potala Swedan (Elakizhi), Shastika Shali Pinda swedam (Njavarakizhi), etc can bring the vitiated doshas back to the alimentary canal, where they can be cleared by virechana (purgation) or vasthi (rectal enema).

In addition to these treatments, Ayurvedic parasurgical treatments such as Agnikarma (thermal cautery) and Raktamokshana (Bloodletting) are extremely effective in relieving joint pain.

Ayurvedic Herbs and Formulations used to treat Joint Pain

Numerous Ayurvedic herbs and formulations have been traditionally used to manage joint pain and inflammation. 

These include ashwagandha, guggul, shallaki, nirgundi, and triphala, bala, laksha etc. 

Ayurvedic formulations like Maharasnadi Kashayam, Rasnerandadi Kashayam, Yogaraja Guggulu, Laksha Guggulu, Abha Guggulu etc are commonly prescribed for their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

• An oil massage containing shallaki, ashwagandha, nirgundi, etc helps ease joint pain due to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.
• Consuming a decoction of Ashwagandha Rasna and Shatavari can help relieve pain and improve internal healing.
• Take guggulu and laksha-containing pills regularly to reduce inflammation and aid in the healing of herniated discs.
• Apply a paste from Shallaki and warm water directly to the afflicted region for localized relief.
• Consuming curcumin capsules regularly can also lessen the inflammatory process from within and assist in preserving overall well-being.
• Amrutha or Guduchi is mentioned as the best drug for rheumatic ailments. It is a Rasayana (nourishing) drug that nourishes and removes inflammation from the deep-seated dhatus. Hence, it can used for both internal and external applications.
• Apart from these rasayanas can be administered at the end of the treatment such as Chyavanaprasha, Vardhamana pippali, Dashamoola hareetaki, Bhallataka ghrita, Chitraka rasayana, Punarnava rasayana, Shilajatu rasayan, Shatavari rasayana, Gokshura churna with milk, Ashwagandha churna with milk, Brahma Rasayana

Natural Home Remedies for Joint Pain

As a natural method, it has no adverse side effects. 

Numerous approaches can help us resolve this crisis. 

Let’s see what can be done to address all of these issues. 

Turmeric

Turmeric offers numerous health advantages. Its anti-inflammatory qualities alleviate discomfort. 

Make a practice of drinking turmeric tea. It improves your entire health. 

Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalyptus is particularly effective in relieving joint discomfort. Just massage a few drops of eucalyptus oil over the painful area. 

You can also combine it with any Ayurvedic oil to boost its effectiveness. It produces the required result in minutes.

Ginger

Ginger paste is excellent not only for cooking but also for treating a variety of health issues. 

Rub the ginger paste on the painful spot. 

It helps to relieve joint discomfort immediately. Ginger tea can also help reduce inflammation.

Mustard Oil

Mustard oil is an excellent treatment for joint pain. 

Because of its warming impact, rubbing with mustard oil relieves back pain quickly. 

Rub camphor tulsi oil into mustard oil to increase its effectiveness. Massage of the afflicted joint has been mentioned as the most effective therapy, as evidenced by experience. 

Applying heated mustard oil can boost massage effects. Although the oil may not have a pleasing odor, massage with it provides relief.

Epsom salt bath

Try taking a bath with a small amount of Epsom salt. It relieves joint discomfort to some extent. Try this three times a week. 

It soothes the muscles and provides rapid comfort.

Garlic and milk decoction

Consuming boiling milk with garlic helps relieve joint pain. 

Place 10 grams of smashed garlic pods in a cloth bag. 

Fill a vessel with 40 ml of milk and 40 ml of water, then insert the cloth bag inside. 

Boil this combination over low heat, stirring constantly, until the milk is reduced to half (40 ml). 

Strain it, divide it into two parts, and consume it twice daily after meals.

Herbal mix

Grind equal parts of dried ginger, black pepper, and a pinch of black salt in your mortar and pestle. Add a teaspoonful of this mixture to water.

Diet Recommendations for Joint Pain

Diet plays a crucial role in managing joint pain and inflammation. 

A diet for joint diseases should include more vitamin D, calcium, omega-3/ fish oil, beta carotene, and vitamin C-rich foods. 

Research suggests that higher dietary intakes of vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, and beta-carotene were associated with lower osteoarthritis risk in adults. 

Ayurveda recommends a balanced diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. 

Avoiding processed foods, refined sugars, and excessive consumption of red meat and alcohol can help reduce inflammation and support overall joint health.

Ideal Diet for Joint Pain

Early morning

Green tea/herbal tea/walnuts-2/soaked almonds-5.

Breakfast

Barley Dalia/ Veg upma/ Ragi roti/ chapati/ Green gram dosa + 1 teaspoon Ghee + veggie or dal curry + one egg white/ A2 Milk

Mid-morning

Salad/  green tea/ herbal tea/ coconut water/ fruits.

Lunch

Brown rice, Chapati with vegetable/ fish curry or dal, salad

Evening

Ginger tea/ green tea, or homemade soups

Dinner

Chapati/brown rice with vegetables and Dal

Bed Time

Turmeric milk/ Chamomile Tea/ Ashwagandha Tea

What to Include

Cereals: 

Fibre-rich brown rice, Wheat, Ragi, Njavara rice, Green gram, Little millet, Pearl millet, Foxtail millet, Amaranth, Sorghum, and Buckwheat.

Fruits: 

Apple, Amla, Banana, Grapes, Pineapple, Sweet lime, Orange, Custard apple, Litchi, Mango, Figs, Berries, Pomegranate, Coconut, Avocado, Muskmelon, Watermelon

Vegetables: 

Bitter gourd, Bottle gourd, Ladies finger, Beetroot, Fenugreek and moringa leaves, Carrot, Spinach, Mushrooms, Cauliflower, Cabbage, Radish, Coriander, Red onion, Ginger, Pumpkin, Sweet potato, Garlic, Turmeric

Diary Products: 

Ghee, A2 milk (Milk of indigenous variety cows)/ Plant-based milk, Buttermilk

Oils: 

Coconut oil, Mustard oil, Olive oil,

Spices: 

Carom seed, Cinnamon, Fennel, Ginger, Turmeric, Coriander, and Cumin seeds

Fishes: 

Small fish, Tuna, Salmon

What to Avoid

• Refined flour
• Avoid canned and packaged fruits and liquids.
• Vegetables include peppers, eggplant, tomatoes, and canned and frozen ones.
• Avoid condensed milk, cream cheese, full-fat yogurt, and unpasteurized cheese.
• Avoid palm oil.
• Avoid alcohol, carbonated drinks, squashes, sweetened drinks, canned and boxed soups, and whole milk beverages.
• Avoid Red meat, including pork, lamb, beef, and processed and fried meat.
• Avoid refined sugar, packaged soups, artificial sweeteners, pickles, junk food, fried foods, and bakery products.
• Avoid sweets and sugar-containing items.
• Limit the intake of curd and instead go for buttermilk
• Avoid red chili, salt, spicy, sour, pickles, and vinegar

Lifestyle Modification for Joint Pain

Lose weight.

Being overweight is the most common risk factor for early osteoarthritis. During specific actions, the knees experience nearly three times the body’s weight pressure. Weight loss can help to avoid early arthritis and provide significant pain relief for individuals who already have it.

Modify your physical activity.

Those with knee pain should avoid impact-loading activities such as jogging, crouching, skipping, and sitting on the floor and should only use a Western commode. This will aid in the progression of joint deterioration and relieve pain.

Regular exercise.

Strong muscles stabilize the joints and joint movement while also improving joint surface nutrition. Thus, regular exercise is just as necessary as taking medications.

Vitamin Supplements.

Vitamin D strengthens bones, and Vitamin B12 is essential for muscles and nerves. Prolonged vitamin shortage can also induce early cartilage degeneration, which leads to arthritis.

Yoga

Yoga helps indirectly by reducing stress and increasing metabolism. Regular yoga practice enhances the pain threshold, reducing the need for painkillers.

How to prevent Joint Pain Naturally?

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle alone can pave the way to prevent joint diseases.

Unhealthy lifestyles often lead to inflammatory responses and degeneration. 

Also, protecting your joints from injury is essential to preventing joint pain. Here are some strategies to protect your joint from crippling pain

A healthy weight:

 Various researches suggest obesity as the leading cause for knee osteoarthritis. Reducing pressure on your weight bearing joints by healthy weight maintenance can prevent joint diseases 

Regular exercise: 

Regular physical activity is necessary for flexible, strong, and healthy joints. Practice exercises that can improve joint flexibility, strength, and range of motion, such as walking, swimming, cycling, and yoga.

Maintain Good Posture: 

A proper posture means a lot to a healthy spine. 

Also using correct body mechanics when performing daily activities can help prevent joint strain and injury. 

Lift heavy objects with your legs instead of your back, avoid repetitive movements that stress your joints, and use ergonomic tools and equipment when possible.

Limit Repetitive Motions: 

Repeated strain on the joint can lead to joint inflammation. 

Hence, taking regular breaks during repetitive activities and reducing stress on the joints can help maintain joint health.

Use Supportive devices: 

Wearing appropriate braces, such as knee pads, wrist guards, or supportive footwear, while engaging in sports or activities helps avoid unwanted stress and strain on joints.

Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is essential for joint health as it helps lubricate the joint gaps and helps reduce friction between bones. 

Dietary changes:

A balanced diet rich in nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants can help support joint health and reduce inflammation. 

Include foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fatty fish, nuts, and seeds, and consider adding anti-inflammatory spices like turmeric and ginger to your meals.

Tips to Reduce Pain and Swelling at Joints

Joint pain and swelling can be due to unwanted strain that you put on your joint with your unhealthy practices. 

Simple tips can provide satisfactory relief in such joint pains. Here are a few tips that you can incorporate for a pain-free life

Exercise: 

Gentle stretching, warm-up exercises before physical activity, and yoga can help you get out of this crippling disease. 

But remember to be moderate and seek expert help before performing any exercises.

Supportive devices: 

Using supportive devices like braces or splints on a physician’s advice can help reduce joint pain and swelling.

Herbal remedies: 

Applying topical herbal remedies or self-massage with warm oils can provide immediate relief. 

Diet: 

The diet should primarily focus on anti-inflammatory foods. 

Including an ample amount of turmeric in your diet can help you ease the condition. 

Turmeric contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. 

Curcumin can help reduce inflammation and pain in the joints and improve joint function. 

Another herb that can help ease swelling and joint pain is ginger. 

Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce joint pain and inflammation. 

It can also help improve circulation, which can promote healing.

Herbal supplements: 

Several supplements containing fish oil, glucosamine sulfate, and chondroitin sulfate can be consumed on expert advice. 

Fish oil is a good source of omega fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation. 

Glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin sulfate are supplements that help promote the growth of new cartilage, which can help relieve pain and stiffness.

Hot and cold compress: 

Alternate Hot and cold compresses can also help manage joint pain. 

Hot compresses can help reduce pain, while cold compresses can help reduce inflammation.

Lifestyle changes: 

Lifestyle is that which makes us diseased, so ditch those unhealthy lifestyles and commute to healthy and pain-free living. 

Quitting smoking, losing weight, and eating a healthy diet can help improve joint health.

A Good Posture: 

Maintaining a good posture can help reduce stress on your joints and prevent joint pain. 

Ensure a Good Night Sleep: 

Getting enough sleep is beneficial for reducing cortisol levels and can indirectly help reduce inflammation levels. 

Also, establish a regular sleep-wake cycle. This can help maintain your overall well-being

Physiotherapy: 

Physiotherapy can be beneficial for relieving joint pain and improving mobility through specific exercises, special therapies, and awareness on proper body mechanics. 

Reduce stress levels: 

Chronic stress can elevate cortisol levels and exacerbate pain and inflammation in the body. 

To promote relaxation and reduce joint pain, include stress-relieving activities like pranayama, yoga asanas, etc.,  into your daily routine.

Consult a Healthcare Professional: 

Remember these are temporary tips, if you experience severe and chronic joint pain seek your physician’s advice as your joint pain can be due to underlying causes and needs serious attention. 

Joint Pain Treatment at Saatwika Ayurveda

Even in traditional medicine, there is no treatment for the incapacitating effects of joint pain; however, We offer you support for this severe illness. 

According to Ayurveda, maintaining the Dosha is essential to managing joint discomfort. 

This can be achieved using Ayurvedic herbal supplements, dietary and lifestyle modifications, and therapeutic assistance. 

We have customized Ayurvedic treatments that can aid in managing several joint diseases.