Addressing Early Degeneration and Disease Complexity: Ayurvedic Insights on the Management of Young Osteoarthritis - A Case Report

Dr. Sreeranjani, Dr. Vijayarajaa P, Dr. Suvendu Rout, Dr. Vipin S. G.

Abstract: Introduction: Young-onset osteoarthritis (OA) is a progressive degenerative disease that affects individuals under 45 years of age, often due to mechanical stress, metabolic imbalances, or hormonal fluctuations. Studies suggest that 5?10% of all OA cases occur in individuals under 45 years. Incidence is higher in athletes, individuals with previous joint injuries and metabolic disorders. Women, particularly during perimenopause, are at higher risk due to hormonal changes affecting the cartilage. In Ayurveda, Young OA can be seen under the lens of Sandhigatavatam. Methods: A 43-year-old female patient presented with bilateral knee joint pain, more severe in the right, in the last four months, associated with morning stiffness lasting over 15 minutes. Patient also had a history of longstanding varicose veins and a history of recurrent Upper Respiratory Tract Infection [URTI]. Previously patient was under conventional treatments and physiotherapy and it provided minimal relief. Hence for seeking further management, she approached the OPD of Kayachikitsa department at Sri Jayendra Saraswathi Ayurveda Hospital, Chennai. As the first line of treatment, Udwarthanam and Lepam were administered, followed by Sadhyo Virechana, Abhyangam, Jambira Pinda Sweda, and Lekhana Vasti. Result: The assessment was done on the basis of signs, symptoms and scales proving clinical significance with remarkable reduction in knee joint pain, varicose veins and respiratory tract infection. Discussion and Conclusion: Initially, the internal medications focused on Deepana and Pachana and addressing the URTI . After seven days, the Kashayam was modified to specifically target Janusandhi Vata and Siraja Granthi Lakshanas. For external therapies, the treatment began with Rukshana using Udwarthanam and Lepam, aiming at Ama Pachana. This was followed by Sadhyo Virechana to facilitate Srotoshodhana and to manage recurrent URTI. Abhyangam and Jambira Pinda Sweda were performed due to their Vatahara and Sthambhahara properties. Subsequently, Lekhana Vasti and Anuvasana Vasti were administered in a Yoga Vasti sequence, not only focusing on Srotoshodhana, Vedana Hara, and Vatahara properties to alleviate pain but also promoting weight reduction due to their Kaphamedohara properties. Therefore, this combined treatment had a significant clinical effect in this case report.

Keywords: Young Arthritis, Sandhigatavata, Sirajagranthi

How to Cite?: Dr. Sreeranjani, Dr. Vijayarajaa P, Dr. Suvendu Rout, Dr. Vipin S. G., "Addressing Early Degeneration and Disease Complexity: Ayurvedic Insights on the Management of Young Osteoarthritis - A Case Report", Volume 14 Issue 5, May 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1131-1139, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR25517113725, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR25517113725