LIVING BETTER WITH ARTHRITIS

Gurvinder Singh (name changed), a 49-year-old member of the Indian para-military forces, was diagnosed with Arthritis in the year 2002. In order to get relief from his incessant joint pains, he started taking strong chemical (allopathic) medicines on a regular basis and got better in due course. However, in 2006, his pains resurfaced, worse than before, and did not subside even after he took medicines for four years. The painful attacks continued off and on.

He contacted Jiva Ayurveda after reading about our Panchakarma treatment, a highly effective form of treatment for chronic pains. We invited him for a Panchakarma session at our clinic in Faridabad. One of our senior doctors analysed his medical history and present condition in detail, and customised a treatment package for him.

HOME REMEDIES:

• Mix powdered fenugreek, turmeric, and dried ginger root in equal quantities. Take 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of this mixture with lukewarm water twice a day.
• Dry fomentation (application of dry heat) using sand or salt is very helpful for reducing pain and swelling. Take a four-folded cloth, fill with hot sand or salt, and make a bundle of it. Massage the bundle on the painful joints.
• Take 2 tablespoons each of long pepper powder (pippali), piper root powder (pippalimool), Java long pepper powder (chavya), and dried ginger root powder (shunthi). Boil this in 1 gallon (or 4 liters) of water (or milk) until only half of the liquid remains. Strain and sip this liquid whenever you feel thirsty throughout the day.
• Swallow 1 peeled garlic bud in the morning with water.

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Arthritis is a chronic condition, alright. But then, there’s no reason for you to think that there’s nothing you can really do about it. Even though you might not be able to uproot the disease completely, you can, and should, at least work on making your life better.

The following tips will directly or indirectly improve your health and change your outlook towards the disease:

Watch your Digestion

Maintain normal bowel movements. Make sure there is no indigestion, bloating or gas formation.

Start early

Whenever you feel the slightest symptoms, make sure you consult a doctor in time. If diagnosed, start your treatment early; don’t wait for the condition to worsen.

Protect your joints

Avoid putting excess stress on your joints. Lubricate your joints and body with sesame oil at least twice a week. Use devices or products that can make it easier to carry out your routine tasks at home or work.

Move your body

Exercising gives relief from pain, reduces fatigue, strengthens the muscles, and enhances flexibility. Yoga and stretching exercises are very useful for Arthritic patients.

Laugh out Loud

Laughing can relax muscles, reduce stress, relieve pain, and even boost your immune system. It is a great way to pacify the aggravated Vata dosha.

Bedtime Bath

A warm bath before bed can relieve muscle tension, ease aching joints and help you get a good night’s sleep.

Work Smarter

Make your work life easier and more convenient by trying arrangements such as flexi hours, telecommuting, or working part-time. Take frequent breaks to stretch stiff joints and relieve sore muscles.

Don’t lose hope

Having Arthritis does not mean the end of the world. Be resolute, take good care of your body, and live a normal life.