cartilage definition

Question

I injured my knee last year while playing football, and since then, it's never felt the same. At first, I thought it was just a sprain, but even after months, I still feel pain when I bend it or walk too much. Went to an orthopedic doctor, and they said it could be cartilage damage. I had no clue what that even meant, so I asked, and they gave me some vague cartilage definition about how it’s the cushion between the bones. They suggested some painkillers and maybe surgery if it gets worse. But I’m only 30! Surgery sounds too extreme, and I really don’t wanna depend on meds forever.

Now, I’m trying to understand more about this whole thing. Like, is cartilage definition just about cushioning, or does it actually heal? The doctor said cartilage doesn’t repair easily, which kinda freaked me out. I thought all tissues in the body heal over time, but they said once it's gone, it's gone. That got me thinking – does Ayurveda have any way to regenerate cartilage or at least stop it from getting worse? I’ve read a bit about herbs like Guggulu and Ashwagandha, but I don’t know if they actually work for cartilage issues.

Also, I’ve seen different explanations online, and now I’m confused. Some say cartilage is just soft bone, others say it’s completely different. What is the real cartilage definition according to Ayurveda? And do Ayurvedic treatments actually help with knee pain and cartilage damage, or is this something that only surgery can fix? If I start taking Ayurvedic medicines, will it help avoid surgery, or is it too late?

Dr. Harsha Joy · Answer

In Ayurveda, cartilage is considered part of the body's connective tissue, and its health is influenced by the balance of Vata dosha, which governs movement and structure. Cartilage damage can result from an imbalance in Vata, leading to dryness and degeneration. While cartilage does not regenerate easily, Ayurveda offers natural remedies to support joint health and prevent further damage. Herbs like Guggulu (commonly used for inflammation and joint pain), Ashwagandha (known for its anti-inflammatory and rejuvenating properties), and Turmeric (a powerful anti-inflammatory) can help reduce pain and inflammation, improve circulation to the area, and support tissue repair. Additionally, Ayurvedic treatments such as oil massages with joint-specific oils (like Mahanarayan oil) and specific dietary recommendations can help nourish the tissues and reduce stiffness. While surgery may be necessary for severe cases, Ayurvedic treatments can help manage pain and slow down cartilage degeneration, potentially avoiding or delaying the need for invasive procedures. It’s essential to work closely with both your orthopedic doctor and an Ayurvedic practitioner to determine a holistic approach that supports healing and joint health.

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