Yoga Treatment of Arthritis

MEANING OF ARTHRITIS

Arthritis is a disease that affects a large part of the population. In medical terminology, it is described as the swelling up of joints. It is a painful condition and, if left untreated for a long time, it can lead to permanent disability. The origin of the word lies in the Greek terms “itis,” which means inflammation and “arthro” which stands for joint. Thus Arthritis is a disease which causes inflammation of joints. In most cases, Arthritis affects the elderly population. However, at times even younger people fall prey to it.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS OF ARTHRITIS

• Stiff, creaky and painful joints.
• Deformation of the ailing organ.
• Intense pain and, in extreme conditions, disability

CAUSES

• In Osteoarthritis, the cartilage of the bone is depleted. The erosion of the cartilage occurs due to regular wear and tear of the body joints.
• While the aged are usually victims of this painful malaise, even younger people can be affected by this disease.
• Rheumatoid arthritis happens when the body's immune system attacks the lining of the joint.

YOGIC MANAGEMENT OF ARTHRITIS
By doing Yoga regularly, patients of arthritis can get some relief from the pain. This is because when one performs a Yogic posture, the muscles are stretched and the pain is relieved. Yogic exercises also strengthen the immune system and this helps the patient.

• Asanas like Makarasana, Bhujangasana, Trikonasana and Vrikshasana are good for arthritic patients.
• Simple Pranayama can also benefit them.
• Exercises like deep breathing and use of nostrils can help the patients.

HOME REMEDIES FOR ARTHRITIS

• Consumption of food that is rich in minerals, vitamins and proteins can help one fight arthritis. Patients can benefit immensely from fiber-rich fruits, green vegetables, raw vegetable juices etc.
• Taking ginger juice is also beneficial for arthritis patients. Herbal remedies like Rose-hip help in treating Arthritis. It strengthens the ligaments and body tissues.
• Another useful home remedy for arthritis is rubbing hot vinegar and sandalwood paste in the affected areas. Eating walnut and coconut is beneficial for strengthening of the bones.

AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF ARTHRITIS
Ayurveda suggests performing certain exercises and Asanas.

• There exist some natural drinks that can be prepared at home for arthritis patients. Every morning the mix of 2 teaspoons of lemon juice and a teaspoon of honey can be taken.
• Apart from that, one can also try drinking carrot and cucumber juice. Turmeric is also useful for arthritis and the victims can take a glass of warm water with one teaspoon of turmeric.
• Garlic also has some healing properties that are beneficial in the treatment of arthritis.
• Try applying garlic paste to the affected areas. Besides, patients can also benefit by eating garlic slices.

CONCLUSION
It is quite evident that the diet of a person plays a role in controlling arthritis. Therefore, arthritis patients should adopt a healthy diet and stay away from junk food. They should also abstain from overeating.

(All the information in this document is well researched but general. To know more about remedies of these diseases please contact our specialists)