How to reduce knee pain in elders - #9277

Namaste Ramana,

For your grandmother’s knee pain, we need to address both her joint health and overall systemic balance, keeping her vegetarian diet and B12 deficiency in mind.

Ayurvedic Remedies: 1. Joint Pain Relief:

Shallaki (Boswellia serrata): Shallaki is excellent for reducing inflammation and pain in the joints. It is effective for arthritis-related pain. Guggulu (Commiphora wightii): A potent herb for reducing inflammation and improving joint health. Joint pain formulations like Kottamchukkadi Taila can be massaged on the affected area. Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric can be added to food or taken with warm water. 2. B12 Deficiency:

Encourage her to consume B12-rich foods such as fortified plant milks, nutritional yeast, and dairy (if permissible). B12 supplements may also be considered under medical supervision. 3. Weight Management:

Encourage her to maintain a balanced diet with easily digestible foods like moong dal, vegetables, and whole grains. Triphala helps in digestion and detoxification, supporting weight management. 4. Daily Practices:

Warm Oil Massage: Regularly massage the knee area with warm Sesame oil or Mahanarayan oil to improve circulation and reduce stiffness. Gentle Yoga and Stretching: Encourage simple knee stretches or practices like Vajrasana (sitting on heels) to promote flexibility. 5. External Application:

Eucalyptus or Wintergreen Oil: These oils can be massaged into the knee area for relief from pain and stiffness. Lifestyle Suggestions: Use orthopedic cushions and knee supports while sitting and standing to reduce strain on the knees. Avoid excessive standing or walking without proper support, and encourage her to use a walking stick for stability. Conclusion: Along with the prescribed collagen supplements, the Ayurvedic approach of herbal support, weight management, and gentle movement will help relieve the knee pain over time. Monitor her progress, and if needed, consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized guidance.

It sounds like we’re dealing with a mix of issues here - knee pain, overweight, and that B12 and you mentioned the collagen tablets. Let’s take this step by step and see how Ayurveda can lend a hand.

First, the knee pain itself. From an Ayurvedic point of view, it’s essential to consider what’s aggravating the Vata dosha since it’s often linked with pain and joint issues. A couple of things might help here. A daily warm oil massage - specifically with Mahanarayan oil or sesame oil - can be very beneficial. Just warm it up a little bit and gently massage around her knees. This not only helps in reducing pain but also increases flexibility.

Diet plays a part too. Since she’s vegetarian, ensure her meals are nutrition-rich but easy to digest. Warm, cooked foods are ideal, maybe a light soup or kichari, ensuring they’re anti-inflammatory. Incorporating turmeric in her diet can naturally reduce inflammation. But don’t overdo it, just a bit daily should suffice. Avoid cold, raw and carb-heavy foods that’d increase Kapha and might contribute to that feeling of heavyness.

Now exercise, or mobility rather. Encourage her to take small, gentle walks once she is able after warming up, like after massages. This helps improve blood circulation n bring some strength to the joint area without overstraining it. She might also find some relief from soaking her knees in warm water with a handful of Epsom salts, now and then.

And about the B12 deficiency, for vegetarian choices; dairy products, fortified cereals or maybe a B12 supplement as allopathy is equally important.

Remember, Ayurvedic interventions are complimentary for chronic conditions alongside medical guidance. Keep checking with her primary healthcare provider and if her pain gets unbearable don’t hesitate to follow their advice promptly.