Ask Ayurveda

/
/
/
What is a tendon and how does Ayurveda view tendon health?
FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic Doctor — 24/7
Connect with Ayurvedic doctors 24/7. Ask anything, get expert help today.
Orthopedic Disorders
Question #16729
166 days ago
241

What is a tendon and how does Ayurveda view tendon health? - #16729

Logan

A few weeks ago, I started feeling a strange pain near my ankle while walking, almost like something was pulling too tight inside. At first, I thought it was just normal muscle strain, but then I noticed the pain wasn’t going away. My friend, who is into fitness, mentioned it might be something to do with my tendon. That got me thinking—what is a tendon, exactly? I always thought it was part of the muscle, but I guess it's different? I looked it up online and found that a tendon connects muscles to bones, which makes sense because my pain feels deeper than just muscle soreness. But what I couldn’t understand is why it suddenly started hurting. I haven’t had any major injuries or accidents. Could it be due to weak joints or a dosha imbalance? I’m also curious—how does Ayurveda explain the function of a tendon? Does Ayurveda have specific herbs or oils that help strengthen tendons? I’ve heard that sesame oil and ashwagandha might be good for joint and muscle health, but do they also help tendons? Another thing I noticed is that my pain gets worse when it's cold or after long hours of sitting. Does Ayurveda suggest different treatments for such tendon-related discomfort depending on the season? And should I be making any dietary changes to support tendon strength? If anyone has experienced tendon pain or stiffness and tried Ayurvedic remedies, I’d love to hear what worked for you. Are there any therapies like Abhyanga (oil massage) or specific yoga postures that help keep tendons flexible and pain-free?

FREE
Question is closed
FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymous
Get expert answers anytime,
completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image

Doctors’ responses

Dr. Harsha Joy
Dr. Harsha Joy is a renowned Ayurvedic practitioner with a wealth of expertise in lifestyle consultation, skin and hair care, gynecology, and infertility treatments. With years of experience, she is dedicated to helping individuals achieve optimal health through a balanced approach rooted in Ayurveda's time-tested principles. Dr. Harsha has a unique ability to connect with her patients, offering personalized care plans that cater to individual needs, whether addressing hormonal imbalances, fertility concerns, or chronic skin and hair conditions. In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Harsha is a core content creator in the field of Ayurveda, contributing extensively to educational platforms and medical literature. She is passionate about making Ayurvedic wisdom accessible to a broader audience, combining ancient knowledge with modern advancements to empower her clients on their wellness journeys. Her areas of interest include promoting women's health, managing lifestyle disorders, and addressing the root causes of skin and hair issues through natural, non-invasive therapies. Dr. Harsha’s holistic approach focuses on not just treating symptoms but addressing the underlying causes of imbalances, ensuring sustainable and long-lasting results. Her warm and empathetic nature, coupled with her deep expertise, has made her a sought-after consultant for those looking for natural, effective solutions to improve their quality of life. Whether you're seeking to enhance fertility, rejuvenate your skin and hair, or improve overall well-being, Dr. Harsha Joy offers a compassionate and knowledgeable pathway to achieving your health goals.
165 days ago
4.83

In Ayurveda, tendons are considered part of the body’s connective tissues, and their health is influenced by the balance of the Vata dosha, which governs movement, dryness, and flexibility. Tendon pain, especially when aggravated by cold weather or prolonged sitting, often indicates an imbalance of Vata. To support tendon health, Ayurveda recommends oils like sesame oil for external application, as it nourishes and warms the tissues, helping to maintain flexibility. Ashwagandha is also beneficial for strengthening the muscles and tendons, as it enhances overall vitality and reduces Vata imbalances. Abhyanga, the Ayurvedic oil massage, can improve circulation, relieve stiffness, and prevent further discomfort in tendons. Additionally, a diet that includes warm, nourishing foods, such as soups, stews, and healthy fats like ghee, can help balance Vata and promote joint and tendon health. Yoga postures that focus on stretching and strengthening, such as downward dog or pigeon pose, can also help maintain tendon flexibility. Avoiding cold and dry environments and staying active with moderate exercise are key to preventing stiffness and supporting tendon health.

13739 answered questions
68% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies

Tendons can be a bit of a mystery, huh? They’re these amazing cord-like structures that connect muscles to bones, allowing our bodies to move with grace— or at least try to. In Ayurveda, tendons are related to the “mamsa dhatu” (muscle tissue), and their function is considered crucial for structural integrity and movement. It’s likely that your discomfort stems from overuse or maybe a subtle dosha imbalance, rather than a dramatic injury.

Now, regarding the pain flaring up when it’s cold or after sitting for long, it’s quite common for Vata dosha imbalances to show themselves through stiffness and pain in colder conditions. Vata is aggravated by cold and dryness, so these symptoms seem to fit.

Ayurveda has some nifty solutions for tendon health. Sesame oil massage, indeed, works wonders. It’s warming, soothing, and can help to balance Vata. You can warm a little sesame oil and gently massage it in circular motions around the affected area, once or twice a day. Just be careful with how much pressure you apply—too much could make things worse.

Ashwagandha is a superstar in Ayurveda for muscle and joint nourishment. It can be taken as a powder mixed with warm milk (and a little honey if you want) before bedtime. About half a teaspoon should do.

Diet-wise, focus on warm, cooked foods with healthy fats to soothe that pesky Vata. Think ghee, sweet potatoes, or almonds. Avoid processed foods or cold meals—even if a salad sounds tempting, try having it at room temp.

For yoga, gentle stretching poses like Pawanmuktasana (the wind-relieving pose) can help improve circulation and ease stiffness. Just listen to your body and don’t push beyond your comfort zone.

Don’t forget, though, it’s important to watch out for changes in pain. If it gets worse, consider seeking medical advice. Ayurveda’s great, but it’s team play with modern medicine that can give you the best care.

1742 answered questions
27% best answers

0 replies
Speech bubble
FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymous

600+ certified Ayurvedic experts. No sign-up.

About our doctors

Only qualified ayurvedic doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions

Doctors online

Dr. Prasad Pentakota
ChatGPT said: I am Dr. P. Prasad, and I’ve been in this field for 20+ years now, working kinda across the board—General Medicine, Neurology, Dermatology, Cardiology—you name it. Didn’t start out thinking I’d end up spanning that wide, but over time, each area sort of pulled me in deeper. And honestly, I like that mix. It lets me look at a patient not just through one lens but a whole system-wide view... makes more sense when treating something that won’t fit neatly in one category. I’ve handled everything from day-to-day stuff like hypertension, diabetes, or skin infections to more serious neuro and cardiac problems. Some cases are quick—diagnose, treat, done. Others take time, repeated check-ins, figuring out what’s really going on beneath those usual symptoms. And that’s where the detail matters. I’m pretty big on thorough diagnosis and patient education—because half the problem is ppl just not knowing what’s happening inside their own body. What’s changed for me over years isn’t just knowledge, it’s how much I lean on listening. If you miss what someone didn’t say, you might also miss their actual illness. And idk, after seeing it play out so many times, I do believe combining updated medical practice with basic empathy really shifts outcomes. Doesn’t have to be complicated... it just has to be consistent. I keep up with research too—new drugs, diagnostics, cross-specialty updates etc., not because it’s trendy, but cuz it’s necessary. Patients come in better read now than ever. You can’t afford to fall behind. The end goal’s the same tho—help them heal right, not just fast. Ethical practice, evidence-based, and sometimes just being there to explain what’s going on. That’s what I stick to.
5
267 reviews
Dr. Prajakta Kulkarni
I am Dr. Prajakta Kulkarni, an Ayurvedic physician and diet consultant with over 15 years of experience, specializing in holistic healing, Ayurvedic nutrition, and personalized wellness programs. My expertise lies in integrating traditional Ayurvedic principles with modern dietary science, offering effective, natural, and sustainable health solutions to patients worldwide. I lead a globally recognized online Ayurvedic diet program, which has been successfully followed by clients in 100+ cities across the world. With a 95% success rate, this program is designed to be easy to follow, result-oriented, and customized for individual health needs, addressing concerns such as weight management, metabolic disorders, digestive health, and lifestyle-related conditions. Additionally, I provide Panchakarma therapy through home visits, ensuring that patients receive authentic Kerala-based detoxification treatments from expert therapists in the comfort of their homes. My approach focuses on restoring balance, enhancing vitality, and promoting overall well-being through natural healing techniques, herbal medicine, and tailored Ayurvedic lifestyle modifications. My mission is to empower individuals with accessible, effective, and personalized Ayurvedic healthcare, helping them achieve optimal health and long-term wellness with scientifically-backed traditional treatments.
5
6 reviews
Dr. Snehal Vidhate
I am Dr. Snehal Vidhate, an Ayurvedic physician from Maharashtra, committed to promoting authentic and effective Ayurvedic healing. I completed my BAMS from YMT Ayurvedic Medical College, Kharghar, where I built a strong foundation in classical Ayurvedic science. After graduation, I was fortunate to be selected for the prestigious Certificate Course of Rashtriya Ayurveda Vidyapeeth, Delhi. Through this program, I had the unique opportunity to learn traditional and authentic Kerala Ayurveda under the mentorship of my Guru, Prof. Dr. G.G. Gangadharan, a highly respected name in the field. Currently, I am pursuing my MD in Panchakarma from the renowned Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara (SDM) Ayurveda College, Bangalore. This advanced training is enhancing my understanding of specialized Ayurvedic detoxification and rejuvenation therapies, allowing me to integrate classical Panchakarma techniques into modern clinical practice effectively. My clinical approach combines deep-rooted traditional knowledge with scientific understanding to offer personalized care for a variety of chronic and lifestyle disorders. I am passionate about utilizing Ayurveda not just for disease management but also for preventive healthcare and wellness promotion. I am dedicated to helping my patients achieve sustainable health by addressing the root cause of ailments through holistic treatments, Panchakarma therapies, lifestyle counseling, and dietetics.
5
40 reviews
Dr. Surya Bhagwati
I am a Senior Ayurveda Physician with over 28 years of clinical experience dedicated to the principles and practice of authentic Ayurvedic medicine. Throughout my journey, I have had the privilege of treating more than 100,000 patients through both in-person consultations and online platforms. My approach is deeply rooted in classical Ayurvedic diagnostics—such as Nadi Pariksha (pulse examination), Roga-Rogi Pariksha (patient and disease evaluation), and a personalized assessment of prakriti (body constitution). Over the years, I have successfully managed a wide range of health conditions across all age groups—from acute infections and digestive issues to chronic and lifestyle disorders such as arthritis, diabetes, respiratory ailments, hormonal imbalances, and autoimmune conditions. I place strong emphasis on individualized care, combining herbal formulations, Panchakarma detox therapies, and dietary and lifestyle guidance to ensure long-term healing and disease prevention. My extensive experience also includes addressing complex, chronic illnesses that require a deep understanding of both the pathology and the patient’s overall constitution. I have worked with patients who had previously struggled with little success in other systems of medicine, and have guided many toward sustainable recovery and improved quality of life. Whether treating elderly patients with degenerative disorders or young adults facing hormonal or metabolic challenges, I strive to offer care that is compassionate, comprehensive, and evidence-informed. My goal is to empower patients with Ayurvedic wisdom so they can take an active role in their healing journey. I continue to remain updated with the evolving landscape of integrative health and value the importance of patient education, ethical practice, and consistent follow-up. For me, Ayurveda is not just a profession, but a lifelong commitment to restoring balance and promoting well-being, one patient at a time.
5
282 reviews
Dr. Isha Bhardwaj
I am someone who kinda learned early that medicine isn’t just about protocols or pills—like, it’s more about people, right? I did my BAMS with proper grounding in both classical Ayurveda and also the basics of modern med, which honestly helped me see both sides better. During internship, I got to work 6 months at Civil Hospital Sonipat—very clinical, very fast paced—and the other 6 at our own Ayurvedic hospital in the college. That mix showed me how blending traditional and integrative care isn't just theory, it actually works with real patients. After that I joined Kbir Wellness, an Ayurvedic aushdhalaya setup, where I dived into Naadi Pariksha—like really deep. It’s weird how much you can tell from pulse if you just listen right?? Doing regular consultations there sharpened my sense of prakriti, vikriti and how doshas show up subtle first. I used classical Ayurvedic texts to shape treatment plans, but always kept the patient’s routine, mental space and capacity in mind. Also I was part of some health camps around Karnal and Panipat—especially in govt schools and remote areas. That part really stays with me. You get to help ppl who dont usually have access to consistent care, and you start valuing simple awareness more than anything. I kinda think prevention should be a bigger focus in Ayurveda, like we keep talking about root cause but don’t always reach people before it gets worse. My whole method is pretty much built around that—root-cause treatment, yes, but also guiding patients on how to live with their body instead of fighting symptoms all the time. I rely a lot on traditional diagnostics like Naadi, but I mix that with practical therapies they can actually follow. No point in giving hard-to-do regimens if someone’s already overwhelmed. I keep it flexible. Most of my plans include dietary changes, natural formulations, lifestyle corrections and sometimes breathwork, daily rhythms and all that. I’m not here to just “treat illness”—what I really aim for is helping someone feel like they’ve got a handle on their own health again. That shift from just surviving to kinda thriving... that’s what I look for in every case.
5
265 reviews
Dr. Shaniba P
I am an Ayurvedic doctor, someone who’s pretty much built her clinical journey around natural healing, balance and yeah—just trying to help ppl feel a bit more whole again. I work mostly with conditions that kinda stay with people... like joint pain that won’t go away, periods all over the place, kids falling sick again n again, or just the kind of stress that messes up digestion n sleep n everything in between. A lot of my practice circles around arthritis, lower back pain, PCOD-ish symptoms, antenatal care, immunity problems in kids, and those quiet mental health imbalances ppl often don't talk much about. My approach isn’t just pulling herbs off a shelf and calling it a day. I spend time with classical diagnosis—checking Prakriti, figuring out doshas, seeing how much of this is physical and how much is coming from daily routine or emotional burnout. And treatments? Usually a mix of traditional Ayurvedic meds, Panchakarma (only if needed!!), changing food habits, tweaking the daily rhythm, and honestly... just slowing down sometimes. I’m also really into helping ppl understand themselves better—like once someone gets how their body is wired, things make more sense. I talk to patients about what actually suits their dosha, what throws them off balance, and how they can stop chasing quick fixes that don’t stick. Education's a big part of it. And yes, I’ve had patients walk in for constant cold and walk out realizing it’s more about weak agni n poor gut routines than just low immunity. Every case’s diff. Some are simple. Some not. But whether it’s a young woman trying to fix her cycles without hormones or a 6-year-old catching colds every week, I try building plans that last—not just short term relief stuff. Healing takes time and needs trust from both sides. End of the day, I try to keep it rooted—classical where it matters but flexible enough to blend with the world we're livin in rn. That balance is tricky, but worth it.
5
24 reviews
Dr. Keerthana PV
I am a passionate and responsible Ayurvedic doctor, having completed my internship at the renowned VPSV Ayurveda College, Kottakkal, Kerala. My clinical journey has been shaped by the rich traditions of Kerala Ayurveda, where I gained extensive hands-on experience in diagnosing and treating patients with authentic Ayurvedic therapies. I am dedicated to delivering personalized and holistic healthcare, with a focus on preventive medicine and positive lifestyle modification. I actively counsel my patients on achieving optimal health through balanced diet, daily regimen, stress management, and natural therapies. Additionally, I am a certified Smrithi Meditation Consultant from the Kottakkal Ayurveda School of Excellence, which allows me to integrate meditation and mindfulness techniques into my treatment protocols, promoting mental well-being along with physical health. My approach is rooted in compassion, responsibility, and a commitment to empowering patients on their journey towards complete wellness.
5
95 reviews
Dr. Anirudh Deshmukh
I am Dr Anurag Sharma, done with BAMS and also PGDHCM from IMS BHU, which honestly shaped a lot of how I approach things now in clinic. Working as a physician and also as an anorectal surgeon, I’ve got around 2 to 3 years of solid experience—tho like, every day still teaches me something new. I mainly focus on anorectal care (like piles, fissure, fistula stuff), plus I work with chronic pain cases too. Pain management is something I feel really invested in—seeing someone walk in barely managing and then leave with actual relief, that hits different. I’m not really the fancy talk type, but I try to keep my patients super informed, not just hand out meds n move on. Each case needs a bit of thinking—some need Ksharasutra or minor para surgical stuff, while others are just lifestyle tweaks and herbal meds. I like mixing the Ayurved principles with modern insights when I can, coz both sides got value really. It’s like—knowing when to go gentle and when to be precise. Right now I’m working hard on getting even better with surgical skills, but also want to help people get to me before surgery's the only option. Had few complicated cases where patience n consistency paid off—no shortcuts but yeah, worth it. The whole point for me is to actually listen first, like proper listen. People talk about symptoms but also say what they feel—and that helps in understanding more than any lab report sometimes. I just want to stay grounded in my work, and keep growing while doing what I can to make someone's pain bit less every day.
0 reviews
Dr. Nisha Bisht
I am an Ayurvedic physician with over a decade of dedicated experience in both clinical and administrative roles. I began my professional journey with Jiva Ayurveda Pvt. Ltd. in Faridabad, where I spent 3 years offering telemedicine and in-clinic consultations, gaining valuable experience in patient-centered care and Ayurvedic treatment protocols. Following this, I served as a Medical Officer at Uttaranchal Ayurved College, Dehradun, for 7 years, where I was actively involved in both patient care and academic responsibilities, refining my clinical skills and deepening my understanding of traditional Ayurvedic practices. Currently, I am working as the Deputy Medical Superintendent at Shivalik Hospital, a unit of Shivalik Ayurved Institute, Dehradun. In this role, I not only manage patient consultations but also oversee hospital operations, ensuring the delivery of quality healthcare services. Throughout my career, I have remained committed to promoting authentic Ayurveda, combining classical knowledge with modern healthcare systems to provide effective, safe, and holistic treatment solutions to my patients.
5
204 reviews
Dr. Ayush Varma
Graduating with an MD in Ayurvedic Medicine from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in 2008, he brings over 15 years of expertise in integrative healthcare. Specializing in complex chronic conditions, including autoimmune disorders, metabolic syndromes, and digestive health, he uses a patient-centered approach that focuses on root causes. Certified in Panchakarma Therapy and Rasayana (rejuvenation), he is known for combining traditional Ayurvedic practices with modern diagnostics. Actively involved in research, he has contributed to studies on Ayurveda’s role in managing diabetes, stress, and immunity. A sought-after speaker at wellness conferences, he practices at a reputable Ayurvedic wellness center, dedicated to advancing Ayurveda’s role in holistic health and preventive care.
4.95
20 reviews
Dr. Ravi Chandra Rushi
I am working right now as a Consultant Ayurvedic Ano-Rectal Surgeon at Bhrigu Maharishi Ayurvedic Hospital in Nalgonda—and yeah, that name’s quite something, but what really keeps me here is the kind of cases we get. My main focus is managing ano-rectal disorders like piles (Arsha), fistula-in-ano (Bhagandara), fissure-in-ano (Parikartika), pilonidal sinus, and rectal polyps. These are often more complex than they look at first, and they get misdiagnosed or overtreated in a lotta places. That’s where our classical tools come in—Ksharasutra therapy, Agnikarma, and a few other para-surgical techniques we follow from the Samhitas...they’ve been lifesavers honestly. My work here pushes me to keep refining surgical precision while also sticking to the Ayurvedic core. I do rely on modern diagnostics when needed, but I won’t replace the value of a well-done Nadi Pariksha or assessing dosha-vikruti in depth. Most of my patients come with pain, fear, and usually after a couple of rounds of either incomplete surgeries or just being fed painkillers n antibiotics. And I totally get that frustration. That’s why I combine surgery with a whole support plan—Ayurvedic meds, diet changes, lifestyle tweaks that actually match their prakriti. Not generic stuff off a handout. Over time, I’ve seen that when people follow the whole protocol, not just the procedure part, the recurrence drops a lot. I’m quite particular about follow-up and wound care too, ‘cause we’re dealing with delicate areas here and ignoring post-op can ruin outcomes. Oh and yeah—I care a lot about educating folks too. I talk to patients in OPD, sometimes give community talks, just to tell people they do have safer options than cutting everything out under GA! I still study Shalya Tantra like it’s a living document. I try to stay updated with whatever credible advancements are happening in Ayurvedic surgery, but I filter what’s fluff and what’s actually useful. At the end of the day, my aim is to offer respectful, outcome-based care that lets patients walk out without shame or fear. That’s really what keeps me grounded in this field.
5
6 reviews

Latest reviews

Wyatt
34 minutes ago
The response was super helpful and detailed. Offered clear steps on rebuilding gut health. Appreciate all the info on diet and lifestyle changes!
The response was super helpful and detailed. Offered clear steps on rebuilding gut health. Appreciate all the info on diet and lifestyle changes!
Aubrey
34 minutes ago
Thanks a ton! This advice felt spot on and really addressed my worries. It’s was clear and easy to understand, so shoud be helpful moving forward.
Thanks a ton! This advice felt spot on and really addressed my worries. It’s was clear and easy to understand, so shoud be helpful moving forward.
Jaxon
1 hour ago
Really appreciate the doc clearing things up, I was sure it was just acidity. Good advice on checking with a neurophysician. Thanks!
Really appreciate the doc clearing things up, I was sure it was just acidity. Good advice on checking with a neurophysician. Thanks!
Dylan
13 hours ago
Thanks for the detailed info and clear explantion! This answer really helped me figure out what might be going on, feeling much more informed now!
Thanks for the detailed info and clear explantion! This answer really helped me figure out what might be going on, feeling much more informed now!