Orthopedic Management in Ayurveda

The cornerstone of Orthopedic practice is the correction of spinal and bony deformities which includes Musculoskeletal Injuries, Sports Injuries, Degenerative Disorders, Tumors, Infections and Congenital Disorders.

Ayurveda with the support of sophisticated diagnostic methods can offer some effective, long lasting and safe remedy for these kinds of disorders. The focus of Ayurvedic treatment is on pacification of the aggravated Dosha by improving digestion and enhancing the digestive fire. This treatment is followed by administration of herbal medicines that foster rejuvenation of diseased body tissues.

Despite lot of research and effort, an effective cure is still not possible in Modern Medicine. All that can be offered are the high dose Anti inflammatory drugs and Analgesics. New and improved treatments are helping those with the most severe pain; however surgery remains a big question for many people.

Dr. Pathrose Parathuvayalil, Chief Physician, Parathuvayalil Hospital and Orthopedic Centre, Kerala and the winner of Kerala Govt.’s Vagbhata award for the Best Doctor emphasizes that the integration of Ayurveda and Allopathy can create a wonderful solution to the existing Orthopedic problems in a better and effective manner. For example Simple fractures can be well managed by closed reduction manipulation and immobilization in Ayurveda. Whereas in Open fracture, broken skin and overlying soft tissues are prone to infection needs Allopathic attention. Also fractures with vascular and neural injuries, where internal or external fixations are indicated need an immediate emergency care. After the fracture gets healed, stiffness of the affected part is a common problem observed in post operative period. Medicated Thaila/Khsheera Dhara, Lepanam along with suitable internal medications in Ayurveda conjoined with Physiotherapy can offer good result here.

Discectomy is indicated in Intervertebral Disc Prolapse where multiple nerve entrapment has occurred. Post Discectomy, Ayurveda therapies which are directed towards relieving the inflammatory changes, releasing the spasms in the affected area, strengthening the supportive tissues holding the spine and nourishing the vertebrae through improving circulation can be done. “Not all treatments work for everyone or are appropriate for everyone;” says Dr. Pathrose; “Patients and their doctors have to weigh very heavily the pros and cons of each option”.