By Kvrss Ramgopal, Ayurveda

A structure in the animal or human body where two skeletal parts are fitted together is known as a joint. Adverse conditions such as injury or disease results in damage in joints and proves to be a hindrance with your movement and a large amount of pain is caused.

Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, sprains, strains, gout, bursitis, osteoarthritis and other injuries can result in painful joints. Surveys reveal that joint pain is a common problem. A majority complained of knee pain while others include shoulder and hip pain. However, this pain can affect any part of your body ranging from ankles to the neck. The frequency increases with increase in age. The effects can vary from slight irritation to debilitation while the duration varies from acute cases (few weeks) to few months (chronic). Physical therapy, medication or alternative treatments can be used to treat this form of pain, irrespective of joint pain.

With respect to Ayurveda, the aggravation of the component “Vata” which governs the nervous system can lead to joint pain. Nourishment is not provided to the bone tissue which in turn begins to degenerate. This affects the lubrication of the joints thereby causing diminished flexibility and pain.

The ayurvedic treatment to joint pain includes:

1. Avoid bitter and pungent food while favouring salty, sour and sweet tastes. These pacify the Vata dosha. A calcium rich diet including grains cooked in water with ghee, organic and freshly cooked vegetables, organic and juicy fruits, high-quality milk is recommended.

2. Based on the theory known as “Santarpana”, a precise combination of herbs called “Osteo Relief” is used. This supports the bone tissue and provides nourishment to the bones.

3. A brisk walk with yogasana stretches is recommended