Coxarthrosis

Coxarthrosis: Ayurvedic perspectives and modern treatments

Sometimes also incorrectly referred to as coxarthrosis, also known as osteoarthritis of the hip joint, is a degenerative disease that affects millions of people worldwide. This condition, characterized by the wear and tear of the cartilage of the hip joint, can lead to pain, stiffness and limitation of movement. While modern medicine offers various strategies for the management and treatment of coxarthrosis, Ayurvedic medicine provides a holistic approach aimed at restoring the balance of body and soul by adjusting diet, daily routine, using herbs, various therapies and exercises.

Understanding coxarthrosis

Coxarthrosis develops slowly and can be the result of several factors, including aging, obesity, previous injury or genetic predispositions. In modern medicine, diagnosis is based on clinical examination and imaging techniques such as X-ray or MRI, which help identify the degree of joint damage.

Modern treatment procedures

Traditional treatment methods include analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve pain, physical therapy to improve mobility and strengthen the muscles around the joint, and in advanced cases, surgery such as total hip replacement.

Ayurvedic medicine and coxarthrosis

Ayurvedic medicine, an ancient Indian form of treatment, provides an alternative approach to the treatment of coxarthrosis that includes herbal remedies, diet, lifestyle and body cleansing procedures (Panchakarma ). According to Ayurveda, coxarthrosis is the result of an imbalance in the doshas (basic life forces) with predominant Vata imbalances in the joint area.

Ayurvedic herbs

1. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): this adaptogenic herb is known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties properties that can help alleviate the symptoms of coxarthrosis

2. Shallaki (Boswellia serrata): it is valued for its strong anti-inflammatory effects , which can help reduce pain and improve joint function

3. Turmeric (Curcuma longa): rich in curcumin, provides powerful anti-inflammatory effects and is often used in Ayurvedic treatment of coxarthrosis

Ayurvedic eating and living habits

Coxarthrosis is often associated with an imbalance of the Vata dosha, which is responsible for movement, circulation and the nervous system in the body. Ayurvedic treatment approaches focus on rebalancing Vata dosha through diet , herbal supplements and lifestyle. 

Ayurvedic eating habits

• warm, nutritious food: prefer warm, easy-to-digest foods that warm and nourish the body, helping to balance Vata dosha. Cereals such as rice and millet are suitable, along with vegetables, which should be preferred in a warm form, such as steamed or baked variants.

• healthy fats: incorporating healthy fats such as ghee (clarified butter) or sesame oil into your diet can help alleviate the dryness that is often associated with Vata imbalance

• Ginger and Turmeric: these roots are important for their anti-inflammatory properties and can promote digestion and circulation, which is important for the treatment of coxarthrosis

• hydration: adequate hydration is key, with warm drinks such as herbal teas that promote Vata balance preferred

Ayurvedic lifestyle habits

• yoga and pranayama: A regular practice of yoga and breathing exercises (Pranayama) can help improve flexibility, strengthen the muscles around the joints and improve the overall balance of the doshas. Strengthening positions that are gentle on the hip joints are the most suitable.

• Self-massage (Abhyanga): Self-massage with warm oil, especially an oil suitable for Vata type such as sesame oil, can help relieve stiffness and improve circulation.

• adequate rest: adequate sleep and relaxation are essential pillars for restoring and maintaining Vata balance. Establishing a regular sleep pattern that includes going to bed earlier in the evening and getting up early in the morning can have a beneficial effectv

• Panchakarma: for advanced cases, Panchakarma, a series of cleansing procedures designed to remove toxins from the body and restore internal balance, may be helpful.