What is Arthritis?
Arthritis is a condition where there is inflammation in the joints. Ayurveda distinguishes three different categories of arthritis, each corresponding to Kapha, Pitta, and Vata. To treat your type of arthritis properly, check what type you are:
If you have arthritis due to Vata, your joints will crack and pop because they are not swollen; instead, they are dry and cold to the touch. It will be primarily painful upon movement, with usually one particular tender spot. Exercises like jogging, jumping, trampolining often aggravate the pain.
Pitta-type arthritis is characterized by inflammation, in which the joint becomes swollen and painful. Unlike Vata, this pain is not because of movement. Pitta type often feels hot to the touch and appears red.
In Kapha-type arthritis, the joint also becomes stiff and swollen due to a lack of recent movement. Rather than hot, it feels clammy and cold. A slight movement, rather than worsening the situation, tends to relieve it. The pain usually is more significant in the morning due to the person having been still overnight. As the person begins to move around, the pain diminishes typically.
What are the Symptoms of Arthritis?
Typical:
- Pain
- Stiffness
- Swelling
- Redness
- Decreased range of motion
What are the Causes of Arthritis?
The two main types of arthritis occur:
Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis occurs because there is wear-and-tear damage to your joint’s cartilage. The cartilage acts as a cushion at the end of your bones and helps to provide frictionless joint motion. Too much damage to your cartilage will lead to your bone touching your other bone at the joint, which is excruciating and restricted movement at that joint. Wear and tear generally occurs over the years, but injuries can accelerate this process.
Rheumatoid arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when a person’s immune system attacks the joint capsule, ultimately damaging the cartilage and bone within a joint.
When to see a Doctor?
- Joint symptoms that last three days or more.
- Several episodes of joint symptoms within a month.
Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Arthritis
- Include Fish in your diet: Fish is known to be full of healthy fat and acids. Try marine omega 3s such as sardines, tuna, or salmon.
- Control Your Weight: Although it’s easier said than done, controlling your weight is critical for limiting the consequences of Arthritis. However, if you are overweight, you must lose some weight to get you back into a healthy space. The noticed and unnoticed effects of being overweight will alter your life choices and overall condition of living.
- Exercise: Exercising is a great way to remove excess weight because it allows you to be active and slowly lower your weight. Additionally, long-term exercise is excellent for strengthening tendons and ankles. Try swimming, walking, or some strengthening activities.
- Avoid Injury: Take care of your body by wearing the proper footwear and stretching before exercising. Your body will thank you for it!
Common Ayurvedic Remedies for Arthritis
Curative Ayurvedic Herbs:
Agaru | Anantmool Root | Babul | Bay Leaf | Black Stone Flower | Boswellia Serrata | Carom
Preventative Ayurvedic Herbs:
Not known.