Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of India's top five chronic diseases and affects about 4-6% of adults. It is a prevalent, age-related, chronic, and slowly progressing joint disorder that eventually results in joint failure.
The joints that are overworked throughout life are the most likely to develop osteoarthritis, namely the knees, neck, low back, and fingertips' small hand joints. A disease of the Cartilage it affects the smooth, rubbery cushion that covers the joint's bones.
What causes Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a debilitating condition, caused by wear and tear of the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. It is the most common form of arthritis and affects millions of people worldwide.
Although the cause of osteoarthritis is not completely understood, there are a few factors that are known to increase the risk of developing the condition. Understanding the causes of osteoarthritis can help people take steps to reduce their risk of developing the condition.
These include
👉Age: due to weakness, joint laxity, decreased sensory capacities
👉Gender: Female particularly after menopause
👉Lack of Exercise
👉Obesity: There is a direct correlation between obesity and osteoarthritis due to certain chemicals (adipokines) secreted by cells of the fatty tissues
👉Hereditary
👉Smoking
👉Poor Nutrition: lack of Vitamin D
Due to mechanical factors, Indian habits of sitting cross-legged, squatting and kneeling probably accelerate the OA process in the knees. Diabetes and leprosy ((neuropathic joint – Charcot's disease)) can both lead to secondary OA. Secondary OA can also be caused by metabolic, endocrine, and congenital disorders.
Pain in Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a condition that affects the joints, causing pain and stiffness. As the cartilage around the joint wears away and bone rubs against bone, it causes inflammation, swelling, and pain. Pain is one of the most common symptoms of osteoarthritis. It can range from a dull ache to a sharp, burning sensation. Pain is usually worse when the joint is used, such as when walking or climbing stairs. Pain can also be worse in the morning or after sitting for a long period of time.
People with osteoarthritis may also experience tenderness and swelling in the affected joint. This can be accompanied by a grinding or popping sound when the joint is moved. Osteoarthritis can also cause stiffness in the joint, making it difficult to move or use the joint.
In addition to joint pain, people with osteoarthritis may also experience fatigue and difficulty sleeping. This is due to the body’s response to the inflammation in the joint. Treatments for osteoarthritis include pain medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.
Pain Relief using natural methods
Opioids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to treat osteoarthritis, but they can be expensive, have serious side effects in the gut, and are not always effective. As a result, natural remedies that are safe and support the management of osteoarthritic symptoms without causing side effects continue to be investigated by researchers.
Ashwagandha (W. somnifera), an Ayurvedic herb that is widely used in traditional Indian medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including arthritis, painful swelling, ulcers, fever, eyesores, diabetes, and others, is one of these potential treatments.
Ashwagandha
According to Research, ashwagandha has anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, pain-relieving, and anti-stress properties, among other advantages.
Studies have shown that ashwagandha may be beneficial in reducing pain in osteoarthritis. One study found that an extract of ashwagandha was able to reduce pain and inflammation in animals with osteoarthritis. Another study found that ashwagandha extract was able to reduce the severity of osteoarthritis symptoms in human patients.
There are several potential benefits of ashwagandha for people with osteoarthritis. It may reduce inflammation, which can reduce pain and swelling. It may also help to reduce joint stiffness and improve mobility. Additionally, ashwagandha is an antioxidant, which means it may help to protect the joints from further damage. Overall, ashwagandha may be a beneficial supplement for people with osteoarthritis. It may help to reduce pain, inflammation, and swelling.
Healing Home Wellness Haldi Doodh Milk Mix Powder
Healing Home Wellness (HHW) has come up with a Haldi Doodh Milk Mix powder that contains Turmeric and Ashwagandha that not only helps you in building immunity but regular intake of this powder mixed in milk will help in giving pain relief and can be used to prevent of OA. By adding the powder mix to the milk, you are getting Vitamin D as milk is one of the rich sources of Vitamin D. Check it out at the HHW website for more details.