Do you often feel swelling or stiffness in and around your knees? Maybe you are suffering from knee pain, with the cause yet to be diagnosed. Does getting up after prolonged sitting become more of a hassle?
Knee pain is a common problem that various factors can cause:
Most Common Causes
- Aging
- Injury
- Excessive wear and tear of the knees
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
Lately, lifestyle disorders have also become a major cause of knee pain. These are:
- Unmanaged Excessive Weight
- Sedentary Lifestyle With & No Exercise
- Certain Sports & Jobs Which Put Excessive Stress On Knees
- Any Previous Knee Injury was Ignored & Handled Negligently
No matter what the cause, knee pain can be debilitating. It can make it difficult to walk, climb stairs, or even stand for long periods. In addition, chronic pain can make the simplest of daily chores a challenging task. So why suffer knee pain when you can find immense relief in Ayurveda?
Ayurveda for Knee Pain
Ayurveda is a proven ancient system of medicine that has been practiced in India for more than thousands of years. It is based on the principle that imbalances in the body cause all illnesses and that these imbalances can be corrected by using natural substances to restore balance.
Knee pain is one of the most common problems when people turn to Ayurveda for help. Ayurvedic treatments and home remedies for knee pain often involve using herbs found easily in your kitchen pantry or growing in your kitchen garden and other natural substances that significantly reduce inflammation and improve joint function.
Let us see how natural ingredients in your kitchen prove to be a boon for your knee pain.
Ginger
Ginger is a popular spice with many health benefits. One of these benefits is reducing knee pain. Studies show that ginger can effectively reduce inflammation and knee pain. It is especially beneficial for people with arthritis.
How to add ginger to your diet?
For best results, eat ginger in its raw form
- Garnish it on your salads,
- Drink fresh ginger tea or any other way you would like to have it.
Ashwagandha
Several studies have shown that ashwagandha can effectively reduce knee pain and improve mobility. For example, in one study, people with osteoarthritis of the knee who took ashwagandha for eight weeks had a significant reduction in pain and stiffness, as well as an improvement in physical function.
Another study found that an ashwagandha formulation was as effective as ibuprofen in reducing knee pain and improving joint function. So if you’re looking for a natural way to relieve knee pain, try taking some ashwagandha!
How to add ashwagandha to your diet?
The best is to use ashwagandha powder made at home or bought from an authentic supplement store. Ashwagandha supplements are generally safe for most people, but it’s always best to speak with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
Triphala
Triphala is an Ayurvedic medicinal preparation that combines three fruits Haritaki, Amalaki, and Vibhitaki. Triphala balances the three doshas in the body: Vata (wind), Pitta (heat), and Kapha (earth & water).
Triphala is very effective in treating knee pain and is a safe Ayurvedic remedy. It helps to reduce inflammation and swelling in the joints. It also strengthens the bones and muscles around the joints.
How to add Triphala to your diet?
Please ensure that you are buying tablets from an authentic brand. You may take its powder form with water, tea, or honey. It is available in tablet form too.
Fenugreek Seeds
Fenugreek seeds contain a compound called diosgenin which possesses anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. A 2016 study found that fenugreek seed extracts effectively reduced knee pain and improved knee function in people with osteoarthritis.
How to add Fenugreek (Methi) to your diet?
Soak around 5 grams of fenugreek seeds in 250 ml of water overnight. Boil and reduce it to 150 ml. Filter and drink warm once or twice a day for beneficial effects on joint pain.
These are some home remedies that are tried and tested by Ayurveda. Let us discuss some Ayurveda treatments for knee pain that you can do from the comfort of your home.
Massage With Ayurvedic Oil
Ayurveda says, Ama +Vata = Amavata or Knee pain, arthritis, & other joint pains
What is Ama?
Toxins or undigested metabolic waste
What is Vata?
It signifies all the movements in the body.
Thus, Ayurveda for Knee Pain combats Ama & Vata with the foods mentioned above and with regular application of Ayurvedic oils.
Ayurvedic oils have been used for centuries in India for their healing properties. Massage with these oils is an effective way to treat knee pain, as the oils help to reduce inflammation and improve circulation. The massage also helps to loosen tight muscles and increase the range of motion.
MSM(M) and Ligacare Knee Pain Oil from Yogic Naturals are made from 100% different natural herbs, each with unique benefits. This makes it very effective at treating various conditions, including knee pain. For best results, use it 2-3 times a day.
General Guidelines In Ayurveda To Manage Knee Pain
Ayurveda suggests some general guidelines that can help to manage the condition of knee pain.
- Diet
Diet is important in managing knee pain. People of all age groups should consume foods high in calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus to help strengthen the bones and prevent deterioration. Eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables can also help to reduce inflammation. Spicy foods should be avoided, as they can aggravate the condition.
- Low Impact Exercise
Exercise is another essential part of managing knee pain. Low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, and yoga can help to strengthen the muscles and improve the range of motion. Joint protection techniques such as using a cane or brace can also be helpful.
- Manage Stress & Have Good Sleep
Stress reduction techniques such as meditation or aromatherapy can help to ease tension and promote relaxation. Sleeping each night is also essential, as fatigue can worsen symptoms.
Please note all the above points discussed are advisory. Every knee pain must be addressed and discussed with the doctor, certified massage therapist and ayurvedic expert for the right diagnosis. The above home remedies and treatments are more beneficial after consultation with your chosen doctor/physician.