Osteoarthritis and it’s Management Through Ayurveda

Sarma, Bishnu Prasad
Prof. Dr. Bishnu Prasad Sarma M.D(Ay), Ph.D, is a distinguished researcher and scientist with special interest in medicinal plants and non communicable diseases. Currently Dean, at the faculty of Ayurvedic Medicine(SSUHS) and Professor & HOD - Dr. Sarma has made immense contribution in bringing Ayurvedic medicine to the world stage.

Osteoarthritis(OA) or degenerative joint disease, results as a consequence of articular cartilage failure induced by multi factorial etiology. It affects mostly the late middle age groups and the elderly. Presently, Osteoarthritis is one of the leading chronic disease in the world. It is a recognized health problem causing high rate of immobility and disability in elderly. The treatment modality selected for the treatment of osteoarthritis had always aimed to alleviate pain and increase the range of physical function like maximum functional mobility, improve balance, increase strength of all impaired muscle groups, maximum gait quality and quantity etc. But most of the modern drug used in OA has to be cautiously prescribed because of growing side effects. In the ancient science of Ayurveda,Sandhigata vata is comparable with Osteoarthritis. Ayurvedic therapy including Panchakarma, has been found effective in controlling pain, restricted movement, swelling, morning stiffness & crepitus associated with OA,in numerous studies,showing a ray of hope for those fighting this debilitating disease.