Boutonniere Deformity: Can Ayurveda Help Improve Finger Mobility Without Surgery? - #16278

Oh, boutonniere deformity sounds frustrating! The mix of immobility, the stiffness especially in mornings, and worrying about whether surgery might be necessary is a lot to juggle. So let's dive into whether Ayurveda can help here! First off, Ayurveda often looks at joint and tendon issues through the lens of Vata imbalance - that dosha's got an affinity for dryness, causing stiffness and inflexibility. You're right about oils like Mahanarayan and Dhanwantharam oil; a regular, gentle massage (called Abhyanga) with these could indeed help to lubricate the joint, ease stiffness, and enhance blood flow which could support healing. You've to be consistent though, like daily consistency, preferably in the morning, right after bathing when your pores are open. Now for herbs - Ashwagandha and Guggul can be beneficial as they have properties that repair tissues and ease inflammation. Ashwagandha as a powder or supplement can be taken but maybe check with an Ayurvedic practitioner for the dose. Satya Nisti Guggul tablets might also help, targeting joint health and repair. The link between your joint stiffness and cold weather hints at Vata again. During colder months, Ayurveda suggests keeping warm internally and externally - warm foods, warming exercises (like yoga, focusing on gentle stretches), and yes, hot water for hand soaks could soften up the stiffness in your hands. If you're dealing with widespread joint stiffness, beyond just the injured finger, it might be good to evaluate your overall lifestyle. Incorporating more of a Vata-pacifying diet - think cooked grains, root veggies, healthy fats like ghee - could bring some balance there. But hey, if the splinting isn't doing the trick and movement doesn't seem to be returning, keep in touch with your doctor too. I'm all for Ayurveda where it can safely work, but if tendon damage is severe, you have to work alongside conventional treatments when necessary. Remember this isn't one-size-fits-all advice, sticking to a tailored plan's important here. Hope that helps give you a roadmap to ease the discomfort and gets you back on your path. Good luck!