Saturday 1 February 2020

Treatment protocols in Rheumatoid Arthritis (Aama Vata)

Rheumatoid arthritis or Aama Vata in Ayurveda is one of the most common autoimmune arthritis, which is caused when the immune system is not working properly. Rheumatoid arthritis can cause chronic inflammation on and around the joints and tissue, as well as other organs in the body. Rheumatoid arthritis is a progressive illness that can last for years and has the potential to cause joint destruction and functional disability.

 Rheumatoid Arthritis

Symptoms
Prolonged stiffness in the joints is the primary symptom of Rheumatoid arthritis or Aama Vata.
  • Stiffness in the morning
  • Joint pain felt on the same joint on both sides of the body  
  • Chest pain when taking a breath (pleurisy)
  • Dry eyes and mouth (Sjogren syndrome)
  • Eye burning, itching, and discharge
  • Firm lumps called rheumatoid nodules.
  • Numbness or burning in the hands and feet
  • Sleep difficulties
Most often, Rheumatoid arthritis attacks the wrists, fingers, knees, feet, and ankles. Early treatment can decrease the pain and the symptoms that help lead an active life.

 Ayurvedic Treatments
In Ayurveda, Rheumatoid arthritis or Ama Vata is treated and cured naturally. When rheumatoid arthritis gets aggravated, it affects the joints of hands, feet, ankles, elbows, lower back, knee, and hip. It makes these joints inflamed and painful. Ayurveda follows a holistic approach to treat the condition that includes diet modifications, lifestyle changes, stress management, herbal medication, ayurvedic therapies, Yoga asanas, pranayama, and meditation. These treatment procedures aim to restore the body's state of balance.

Usually, treatment is long term, and various procedures are done according to the patient's condition and presentation.
  • Agni deepana and ama pachanga: activates digestive fire and corrects metabolism. 
  • Shodhana Chikitsa: Removal of ama or Purification of the body
  • Pathya: Following dietetic regimens to prevent ama formation.
  • Shamana chikitsa: Internal medications to reduce pain and joint inflammation.
  • Rasayana: Medications to improve immunity and joint stability. 

 Rheumatoid Arthritis

Ayurveda also incorporates Panchakarma in treating Rheumatoid arthritis. Panchakarma is one of the most effective ayurvedic treatment methods. It plays a vital role in the management of chronic autoimmune diseases like RA. The treatment protocol follows a sequence of therapies leading up to detoxification therapies like Vamana (Emesis), Virechana ( Purgation), Vasthi (Enema), and Nasyam (Nasal Administration). To strengthen the tissues and improve mobility, experts will also recommend therapies like Taila Dhara (Pouring medicated oils on the body), Nhavarakkizhi ( Massage with Bolus of rice boiled in medicated milk), Ksheera Basti (Medicated milk-based enema) and administration of specific herbal preparations that protect the tissues (Rasayanas).

Blog reviewed by: Dr. Kiran B Nair
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