Concept of Inflammatory Joint Pain in Ayurveda - A Review
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Concept of Inflammatory Joint Pain in Ayurveda - A Review
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
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Shyama K V
PG Scholar, Department of Kayachikitsa, Pankajakasthuri Ayurveda Medical College & PG Centre, Kattakkada, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
Miharjan K
Former Professor and Head of the Department, Department of Kayachikitsa, Pankajakasthuri Ayurveda Medical College & PG Centre, Kattakkada, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
Lekshmi R
Assistant Professor, Department of Kayachikitsa, Pankajakasthuri Ayurveda Medical College & PG Centre, Kattakkada, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
Arun Pratap
Professor and Head of the Department, Department of Kayachikitsa, Pankajakasthuri Ayurveda Medical College & PG Centre, Kattakkada, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
Arjun Chand C P
Associate Professor, Department of Kayachikitsa, Pankajakasthuri Ayurveda Medical College & PG Centre, Kattakkada, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Concept of Inflammatory Joint Pain in Ayurveda - A Review
Year: 2022 | Doi: 10.47070/ayushdhara.v9i1.907
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Inflammatory joint pain is defined as a painful sensory and emotional experience often associated with actual or potential tissue damage. It is a prominent symptom in musculoskeletal conditions, primarily caused by either inflammation or degeneration. Common inflammatory joint diseases include Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and Gouty arthritis. In Ayurveda, such conditions are referred to as Sandhi Vikara, which indicates disorders of the joints. This review discusses the Ayurvedic perspective on inflammatory joint pain, exploring its etiology, pathogenesis (Samprapti), and management.
The Role of Ama in Inflammatory Joint Pain
One critical concept in understanding inflammatory joint pain in Ayurveda is the role of Ama. Ama is viewed as a toxic byproduct resulting from improper digestion and metabolism, which can lead to various health issues. The presence of Ama is essential in the pathogenesis of inflammatory conditions, as it contributes to channel obstruction (Srotorodha) and dysfunction of Vata, the dosha associated with movement and nerve function. Increased levels of Ama can disrupt the balance of the body's tissues (Dhatus), leading to symptoms such as pain and inflammation in the joints. Thus, managing Ama through purifying treatments forms a crucial part of Ayurvedic therapy for inflammatory joint pain.
The Importance of Rakta Dushti
Another significant concept is Rakta Dushti, referring to the vitiation or disturbance of the blood component (Rakta). According to Ayurvedic principles, the quality and condition of blood can significantly influence the presence of inflammation and pain in joints. Factors such as poor dietary choices, environmental influences, and incorrect lifestyle habits can lead to the deterioration of Rakta. When Rakta is disturbed, it may lose its nourishing properties, leading to symptoms characteristic of inflammatory arthritis, such as swelling, redness, and tenderness. Ayurvedic treatment strategies aim to restore balance to Rakta through various methods, including dietary adjustments and detoxification procedures.
Conclusion
Inflammatory joint pain is a prevalent ailment that can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life. The Ayurvedic framework identifies Ama and Rakta Dushti as critical factors in the development of inflammatory joint conditions. By understanding the role of these elements, Ayurveda provides effective management strategies to alleviate symptoms and restore balance in the body. The primary goal of treatment remains the reduction of inflammation and pain, enhancing the patient's overall well-being in the face of such debilitating disorders.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is inflammatory joint pain according to Ayurveda?
Inflammatory joint pain is known as Sandhivikara in Ayurveda. It involves the vitiation of Tridosha, Ama, and Rakta Dhatu, leading to symptoms like pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints.
What are the common causes of inflammatory joint pain?
Common causes include rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and gout. These conditions are characterized by synovitis, which results in joint pain, swelling, redness, and morning stiffness that lasts for over an hour.
How does Ayurveda approach the treatment of inflammatory joint pain?
Ayurveda aims to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms by utilizing therapies like Langhana, Swedana, and Shodhana, tailored to the individual's condition based on Samprapti and Dosha involvement.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Concept of Inflammatory Joint Pain in Ayurveda - A Review�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Pain:
Pain is described as an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience that is often associated with actual or potential tissue damage. It is a prominent symptom in musculo-skeletal conditions, signaling the presence of a pathological condition in the body.
2) Rakta:
Rakta, or blood, can be afflicted by vitiation in Ayurveda, leading to symptoms such as redness and tenderness in joints (inflamed). Various causative factors may disturb Rakta Dhatu, leading to joint diseases.
3) Disease:
Diseases in Ayurvedic context can involve the disturbance of Tridoshas, Ama, and Rakta. Joint conditions like Amavata and Vatarakta are examples of such diseases that cause pain and inflammation.
4) Sandhi (Shandhi, Samdhi):
Sandhi refers to joints in Ayurveda. Inflammatory joint pain, or Sandhi Vikaras, result from the vitiation of the Doshas and Rakta, leading to symptoms like pain, swelling, and tenderness in the joint.
5) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine that treats joint pain by considering the involvement of Tridoshas, Ama, and Rakta. It employs holistic methods, including specific dietary guidelines and therapeutic procedures.
6) Tridosha (Tridosa, Tri-dosha):
Tridosha comprises Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, and an imbalance among these leads to various diseases. In the case of inflammatory joint pain, the vitiation of these Doshas plays a crucial role in pathogenesis.
7) Nidana:
Nidana refers to the causative factors of diseases. In inflammatory joint diseases, these include factors that vitiate Agni, Ama, and Rakta, among others.
8) Guna:
Gunas are qualities that influence the nature of substances and diseases. For example, the Gunas of Ama like Snigdhata and Pichilata can lead to Srotorodha (obstruction of channels) causing joint pain.
9) Inflammation:
Inflammation in joints is a hallmark of conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, characterized by swelling, redness, and pain. In Ayurveda, it often involves the vitiation of Rakta and other Doshas.
10) Dhatu:
Dhatus are the seven fundamental tissues in Ayurveda. Joint pain involves the vitiation of Rakta Dhatu and other tissues, affecting their formation and function.
11) Lakshana (Laksana):
Lakshana refers to symptoms of a disease. Inflammatory joint pain's Lakshanas include Sandhi Shoola (joint pain), Sotha (swelling), and Raga (redness).
12) Ushna (Usna):
Ushna denotes heat. In the context of inflammatory joint pain, Ushna Guna (hot quality) may be aggravated, reflecting in symptoms like fever and increased joint temperature.
13) Sama (Shama):
Sama refers to the presence of Ama and other substances in a mixed or impure state. This condition exacerbates symptoms of diseases like joint inflammation.
14) Samprapti:
Samprapti is the Ayurvedic term for pathogenesis. In joint inflammation, Samprapti involves the vitiation of Tridosha, Ama, and Rakta leading to symptoms.
15) Snigdhata:
Snigdhata is the quality of unctuousness or oiliness, which affects Ama's properties. Excess Snigdhata can lead to Srotorodha in joints causing inflammation.
16) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiation involves the disturbance or imbalance of Doshas and Dhatus. Joint inflammation often includes the vitiation of Rakta and other factors.
17) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa denotes taste and essence in Ayurveda. Certain Rasas like Katu-Tikta are employed in therapies for inflammatory joint pain to pacify vitiated Doshas.
18) Raga:
Raga denotes redness, a symptom of inflammation. Redness in joints indicates vitiated Rakta, contributing to conditions like inflammatory arthritis.
19) Vata:
Vata is one of the Tridoshas, governing movement and nerve impulses. Its vitiation causes pain, a primary symptom of inflammatory joint diseases.
20) Raktadhatu (Rakta-dhatu):
Rakta Dhatu denotes blood tissue in Ayurveda. Vitiation of Rakta Dhatu is central to inflammatory joint conditions, reflected in symptoms like redness and tenderness.
21) Vatavyadhi (Vata-vyadhi):
Vatavyadhi refers to diseases caused primarily by Vata Dosha. Conditions like joint pain involve Vata aggravation, contributing to symptoms like pain and stiffness.
22) Purvarupa (Purva-rupa):
Purvarupa denotes premonitory symptoms. In joint inflammation, Purvarupa includes symptoms from the vitiation of Ama, Rakta, and Tridoshas.
23) Anupashaya (Anupasaya):
Anupasaya refers to factors that worsen symptoms, aiding differential diagnosis. In joint diseases, Anupasaya helps in understanding the involvement of Ama and Raktadushti.
24) Stiffness:
Stiffness, or Stabdhata, is a key symptom in inflammatory joint diseases, resulting from the vitiation of Vata and other pathophysiological factors.
25) Swelling:
Swelling, or Sopha, in joints is a primary feature of inflammation, indicating the vitiation of Doshas and tissue involvement.
26) Kulatha:
Kulatha is a type of horse gram, recommended in the diet for inflammatory joint pain due to its beneficial properties in reducing symptoms.
27) Kshara (Ksara):
[see source text or glossary: Kshara]
28) Nature:
[see source text or glossary: Nature]
29) Pitta:
Pitta, governing metabolism and transformation, when vitiated, contributes to inflammation and symptoms like redness in joint pain.
30) Shopha (Sopha):
Sopha in Ayurveda refers to swelling, a major symptom in inflammatory joint diseases caused by the interplay of vitiated Doshas.
31) Vishra (Visra):
Visra describes a foul smell, often indicative of Rakta Dushti or vitiated blood, a contributing factor in inflammatory joint conditions.
32) Masha (Masa, Ma-sha):
Masha, or black gram, when consumed excessively, can increase certain Gunas, contributing to the vitiation of Rakta involved in joint inflammation.
33) Agni:
Agni, or digestive fire, is central to health in Ayurveda. Agnimandya, or weak digestion, leads to Ama formation, pivotal in joint inflammation pathogenesis.
34) Rheumatoid arthritis:
Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory joint condition mentioned in Ayurveda as Amavata, involving pain, swelling, and systemic symptoms.
35) Agnimandya (Agni-mandya, Agnimamdya):
Agnimandya, or weak digestive fire, leads to Ama formation, which obstructs channels and contributes to inflammatory joint diseases.
36) Katutikta (Katu-tikta):
Katu-Tikta Rasa therapies are used in Ayurveda to pacify vitiated Doshas, especially effective in inflammatory joint pain management.
37) Vatarakta (Vata-rakta):
Vatarakta is an Ayurvedic term for gout, an inflammatory joint disease involving pain, swelling, and the vitiation of Vata and Rakta.
38) Mamsarasa (Mamsa-rasa):
[see source text or glossary: Mamsarasa]
39) Nishpava (Nispava):
[see source text or glossary: Nishpava]
40) Pradhana:
Pradhana refers to the primary involvement of a Dosha or other factor in the disease process. In joint pain, Vata or Pitta may be Pradhana.
41) Pradesha (Pradesa):
Pradesha denotes a region or area in the body, such as joints where inflammatory conditions like Sandhi Vikaras manifest.
42) Godhuma (Go-dhuma):
Godhuma, or wheat, is advised in specific dietary regimens for managing inflammatory joint conditions in Ayurveda.
43) Vastuka (Vashtuka):
[see source text or glossary: Vastuka]
44) Upashaya (Upasaya):
Upasaya refers to factors that provide relief from symptoms. In inflammatory joint pain, Upasaya helps in diagnosing the presence of Ama and Raktadushti.
45) Apathya:
Apathya denotes food and behaviors to be avoided. For joint inflammation, avoiding items like Matsya, Guda, and inappropriate combinations is crucial.
46) Amavata (Ama-vata):
Amavata is Ayurvedic terminology for Rheumatoid Arthritis, involving the accumulation of Ama and Vata, presenting as pain and swelling in joints.
47) Purana:
Purana refers to old or aged; Purana Shastika Shali (aged rice) is often recommended in the diet for managing inflammatory joint conditions.
48) Vikara:
Vikara denotes disease or disorder. Joint Vikara can be linked to inflammatory conditions like Amavata and Vatarakta, involving vitiated Doshas.
49) Vedana:
Vedana is a Sanskrit term for pain. It is a key symptom in inflammatory joint diseases, indicating the presence of Vata and other pathological conditions.
50) Ruksha (Ruksa):
Ruksha denotes dryness. In joint inflammation, an increase in Ruksha Guna can exacerbate symptoms, contributing to discomfort and stiffness.
51) Patola:
Patola is a medicinal plant advised in the dietary regimen for inflammatory joint pain due to its beneficial properties in pacifying vitiated Doshas.
52) Shyama (Syama):
Shyama K V is one of the authors of the review article focusing on the concept of inflammatory joint pain in Ayurveda.
53) Pathya:
Pathya refers to beneficial foods and behaviors recommended in Ayurveda. For inflammatory joint pain, Pathya includes dietary items like Kulatha and therapeutic measures.
54) Samaja (Saman-ja):
[see source text or glossary: Samaja]
55) Lashuna (Lasuna):
Lasuna, or garlic, is advised in the diet for inflammatory joint pain due to its properties in alleviating symptoms and managing vitiated Doshas.
56) Lavana:
Lavana, or salt, should be consumed cautiously in inflammatory joint conditions as excessive intake can vitiate Rakta, worsening symptoms.
57) Dosha (Dosa):
Doshas, comprising Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, must remain balanced for health. Their vitiation leads to various diseases, including inflammatory joint pain.
58) Kapha:
Kapha, one of the Tridoshas, when vitiated, can contribute to symptoms like swelling and stiffness in joint inflammation.
59) Chala (Chala°):
Chala denotes mobility. In inflammatory joint conditions, imbalance in Chala Guna affects joint flexibility, contributing to stiffness.
60) Dadhi:
Dadhi, or curd, is generally considered Apathya in inflammatory joint conditions as it can aggravate vitiated Doshas and Ama.
61) Laghu:
Laghu denotes lightness. Foods with Laghu Guna are often advised in inflammatory joint pain management to avoid aggravation of symptoms.
62) Mamsa (Mamsha):
Mamsa, or meat, has specific dietary guidelines in Ayurveda. Certain types like Anupa Mamsa should be avoided in inflammatory joint conditions.
63) Drava:
Drava denotes liquidity. In Rakta Dushti (vitiated blood), Drava Guna plays a role, contributing to symptoms like redness and tenderness in joints.
64) Tikta:
Tikta, or bitter taste, helps pacify vitiated Doshas. Herbs with Tikta Rasa are recommended in managing inflammatory joint pain.
65) India:
India is the country where the prevalence of inflammatory joint pain is measured, and the research on Ayurvedic treatments is conducted, as mentioned in the article.
66) Chand:
Arjun Chand C P is one of the authors who contributed to the review article on inflammatory joint pain in Ayurveda.
67) Sura (Shura):
Sura, or alcoholic beverages, is considered Apathya in inflammatory joint conditions as it can increase the vitiation of Doshas.
68) Tila:
Tila, or sesame, in excess, can vitiate Rakta, contributing to inflammatory joint pain. Ayurveda advises appropriate dietary regulation.
69) Katu:
Katu, or pungent taste, is used therapeutically in Ayurveda to manage Ama and Agni, playing a role in inflammatory joint pain treatment.
70) Amla:
Amla, or sour taste, should be managed cautiously in diet for those with inflammatory joint pain as it can aggravate the condition.
71) Human body:
[see source text or glossary: Human body]
72) Thiruvananthapuram (Thiruvanantha-puram, Tiru-anantapuram, Tiruvanantapuram, Tiruananta-puram):
Thiruvananthapuram, in Kerala, India, is the location of Pankajakasthuri Ayurveda Medical College and PG Centre, where part of this research was conducted.
73) Sthanasamshraya (Sthanasamsraya, Sthana-samshraya):
Sthana-samsraya refers to the stage where Doshas localize before manifesting into diseases, critical in understanding joint inflammation.
74) Shashtikashali (Sastikasali, Shashtika-shali):
Shashtikashali, a type of aged rice, is recommended in Ayurveda for its health benefits, including in the management of inflammatory joint pain.
75) Raktamokshana (Raktamoksana, Rakta-mokshana):
Raktamokshana, or bloodletting, is an Ayurvedic procedure used to manage vitiated Rakta contributing to inflammatory joint conditions.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 145]
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