Treating Joint And Muscle Pain With Ayurveda

 



Muscle and joint pain are common conditions occurring due to overuse or disuse of the joints and the muscles. Further, it can be due to strains, sprains and underlying diseases like arthritis. Muscle and joint pain can also be a result of deficiencies of vitamin D, calcium, etc and metabolic disorders. As per Ayurveda, it can be due to toxin (Ama) buildup or Vata imbalance. Whatever the reason, Ayurveda, with its holistic approach, addresses the root cause and treats the condition accordingly.

According to Ayurveda, reducing toxin buildups and restoring Vata balance assists in the treatment of joint and muscle pain. The weakening of digestive energy or Agni causes indigestion and leads to toxin accumulation. Toxin buildups can be reduced with the help of ayurvedic detoxes. The detoxes consist of Purvakarma, a preliminary phase comprising procedures like Snehana or oil therapy, and Swedana or steam therapy. Further, Panchakarma, a detailed session involving therapeutics like Virechana, Vamana, Basti, Raktha Moksha, and Nasya is performed. Moreover, herbal remedies are also given to cleanse the body. And to rectify Vata imbalance, following a Vata pacifying diet is essential. Speaking of diet, foods rich in calcium are to be consumed. Besides, avoiding alcohol, caffeine, and gas-forming foods is advised.Ayurvedic massages and therapies too provide relief from joint and muscle pains by reducing the stiffness at the joints and muscles. The remedies are customized based on body type, and so the oils or herbs used varies from one person to another. Abhyanga, Navara Kizhi, Kati Vasti, Janu Vasti, etc are some of the massage therapies employed. Furthermore, anti-inflammatory herbs like turmeric and ginger are used in the treatment. Amla and Nirgundi are capable of relieving muscle cramps. Herbal supplements are crucial in balancing the doshas and preventing toxin buildups.

Apart from therapies and herbs, there are other things to consider in the ayurvedic treatment of joint and muscle pain like physical activity, sleep schedule, lifestyle, etc. Yoga and low impact exercises are recommended, and avoiding high impact exercises is a necessity since it can worsen the condition. Sticking to a healthy sleep habit is significant as well and following an ayurvedic lifestyle helps eliminate insomnia and other sleep disorders. After all, sleep is vital in the treatment of any ailment, not just joint and muscle pain. And incorporating meditation assists in stress management and boosts self-awareness which further helps in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

In brief, locomotor activity and quality of life depend on the proper functioning of joints and muscles. And Ayurveda, with its various remedies, provides relief from pain, prevents recurrence, and occurrence in healthy individuals. Moreover, it establishes a connection between mind, body, and soul. Further, the treatment process varies from one person to another, considering various body types. A consultation with an experienced ayurvedic practitioner helps find the body type, thus enabling efficient treatment of the condition. Besides, it is necessary to consult an ayurvedic expert before starting any ayurvedic medication to determine underlying diseases and prevent adverse reactions.


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