Overview

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disorder characterized by the gradual breakdown of joint cartilage and underlying bone. It commonly affects weight-bearing joints such as the knees and hips, as well as the hands, feet, and spine. The condition leads to pain, stiffness, reduced mobility, and functional limitation, especially with advancing age.

Types of Osteoarthritis

• Primary Osteoarthritis: Age-related degeneration of joints without any identifiable cause.
• Secondary Osteoarthritis: Develops due to pre-existing factors such as joint injury, obesity, deformity, or metabolic disorders.

Causes (Nidana)

• Advancing age
• Repetitive mechanical stress on joints
• Obesity and excessive load on weight-bearing joints
• Joint injuries or trauma
• Poor posture and faulty biomechanics
• Low-grade chronic inflammation
• Muscle weakness around joints

Commonly Affected Joints

• Knees
• Hips
• Spine
• Hands and fingers
• Feet

Symptoms

• Joint pain aggravated by movement
• Morning stiffness or stiffness after periods of rest
• Joint swelling
• Decreased range of motion
• Crepitus (grating sensation)
• Difficulty in performing daily activities
• Muscle weakness due to reduced activity

Diagnosis

• Clinical examination and patient history
• X-ray imaging of affected joints
• MRI in selected cases for cartilage and soft tissue assessment

Ayurvedic Perspective

In Ayurveda, osteoarthritis is described as Sandhigata Vata, a condition caused by the aggravation of Vata Dosha affecting the joints. Vitiated Vata leads to degeneration of cartilage, reduction of synovial fluid, joint dryness, pain, swelling, and restricted movements.

Ayurvedic Treatment Approach

• Shodhana Chikitsa (detoxification therapies), when indicated
• Shamana Chikitsa for pacifying aggravated Vata
• Internal medications to nourish joints and improve lubrication

The choice of Shodhana therapy is decided by the physician depending on the patient’s strength, stage of disease, and overall condition.

Supportive and Additional Measures

• Pathya Ahara (appropriate diet and lifestyle modifications)
• Physiotherapy
• Joint-strengthening and flexibility exercises
• Weight management
• Avoidance of excessive strain on affected joints