Legg-Calve-Perthes disease is a condition seen mostly in first born male children in the age group of 4 to 8 years, and is analogous to avascular necrosis of the hip seen in adults. The head of the femur bone loses its blood supply and gradually collapses, after which it gradually re-forms and reshapes over a period of several years. Symptoms of this condition include pain in the hip-joint, which is aggravated by activity and reduced by taking rest. Early diagnosis of this condition and accurate management are important in order to prevent permanent damage to the joint and future disability. The modern management of this condition includes a combination of rest, plaster- casting, physiotherapy, and medications.
Ayurvedic herbal treatment for this condition is similar to the treatment given for adult individuals having avascular necrosis of the hip, but in a much lower dose, depending upon the age of the affected child. Herbal medicines are given which improve the blood supply to the head of the thigh bone. In addition to these medicines, other herbal medicines are given which help in repair and re-moulding of the head of the femur-bone. Herbal medicines which have a soothing and corrective action on the blood, blood vessels, and capillaries form the mainstay of treatment in the management of this condition.
Oral medication can also be supplemented with localised therapy in order to control pain and limitation of movement. Local therapy is given in the form of application of medicated ointments and oils, followed by medicated steam fomentation. These local treatments give considerable relief from pain and help in early movement and mobility of the affected joint. A judicious combination of rest and graded exercises need to be advised in the management of this condition.
Most individuals affected with this condition require Ayurvedic herbal treatment for periods ranging from six to nine months, depending upon the severity of the condition. Ayurvedic treatment can definitely improve the cure rate of individuals affected with this condition. Ayurvedic herbal treatment thus has a significant role to play in the management and treatment of Legg-Calve-Perthes disease.
The writer, Dr. A. A. Mundewadi, is available as an online Ayurvedic Consultant at www.ayurvedaphysician.com
