How to address Knee Osteoarthritis

Question

Am 63 year old male having KO in my left knee and lower back pain. I do normal stretch daily for about 30 minutes and walk for about 5 kms. I don’t have pressure related problems or diabetes. I don’t consume  white sugar sweets but go for jaggery or any other desi sweets. I was also treated for vertigo (BPPV) and was diagnosed that it was due to migraines. Now, I don’t have vertigo but at times feel instability. So, in effect, I cannot perform any strenuous activities because of joint pains and dizziness. I request you to please let me know your thoughts

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

Namaste Ramakrishnan Ji,

To address knee osteoarthritis (KO), lower back pain, and occasional instability, follow these concise Ayurvedic recommendations:

1. Knee Osteoarthritis (Sandhigata Vata)
Lifestyle: Practice gentle yoga like Vrikshasana and reduce walking to 3-4 km if pain persists.
Diet: Increase ghee, methi seeds, and Vata-pacifying foods (warm, spiced meals). Avoid cold and dry foods.
Herbs: Take Shallaki, Ashwagandha, and Dashmool Kashayam for pain relief and joint repair.
External Therapy: Massage with Mahanarayana Taila and apply steam with a hot towel.
2. Lower Back Pain
Posture: Use ergonomic support.
Therapies: Apply Kottamchukkadi Taila for relief.
Exercises: Practice Bhujangasana and Cat-Cow stretches to strengthen the back.
Herbs: Take Rasna and Triphala for pain relief and detoxification.
3. Instability & Vertigo
Diet: Include Magnesium-rich foods like sesame seeds and stay hydrated.
Herbs: Take Brahmi Ghrita and Shankhpushpi to stabilize nerves.
Yoga: Practice Anulom Vilom Pranayama and Tratak for better balance.
4. General Recommendations
Immunity: Take Chyawanprash daily.
Detox: Consider Virechana or Panchakarma therapies under supervision.
Sleep & Relaxation: Ensure 7-8 hours of sleep and practice Shavasana.
Stay consistent, and consult an Ayurvedic doctor if issues persist.

Pranam

Dr. Harsha Joy · Answer

Based on your condition, your symptoms point to Vata imbalance, which commonly affects joints, nerves, and stability as we age. For your knee osteoarthritis (KO) and lower back pain, applying warm herbal oils like Mahanarayan or Dhanwantharam Tailam followed by gentle heat can relieve stiffness and pain. Include Vata-pacifying foods like warm, moist, and mildly spiced meals while avoiding cold, dry, or raw foods. Ashwagandha or Bala supplements may help with strength and stability, but consult an Ayurvedic practitioner for dosage. For dizziness and instability, practicing grounding pranayama (like Nadi Shodhana) and balancing poses in yoga can help. Avoid overexertion, and focus on a slow, steady routine with restorative exercises.

How to address Knee Osteoarthritis - #8393

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