Loss of blood supply to the end part of long bones results
in a gradual cellular death and collapse of bone, causing pain, limitation of
movement, and destruction of the joint. This condition is known as avascular
necrosis (AVN), and mostly involves the hip joint, though other long bones and
even small bones may also be affected. Trauma and drugs like corticosteroids
can cause AVN; organ transplant recipients are also more susceptible.
Modern treatment options for AVN bring about limited
results. Reduction in weight bearing by restricting activity and using
crutches; pain relieving drugs; medicines like biphosphonates and vasodilator
drugs; and heat therapy, bring about some degree of improvement. Surgical
options include core decompression, bone grafting, and total hip arthroplasty.
Poor prognostic factors include age over 50 years, stage 3 or more disease
progression at the time of diagnosis,
death of more than a third of the weight bearing area of the joint, and lateral
involvement of the joint.
Ayurvedic herbal medicines can be judiciously used to bring
about significant relief or even a complete cure in patients suffering from
AVN. Herbs increase blood circulation to the affected bone, increase
micro-circulation, reduce swelling, flush out dead tissue, and even help in
bone remodeling. In the early stages of the disease, treatment of about 4-6 months is sufficient, while those having an advanced condition require
treatment with high doses of herbs for about 6-8 months. Highly refractory
patients also need medicated enemas in addition to the oral treatment.
Ayurvedic treatment can also be given in concurrence with
surgical procedures to provide maximum benefit; it can also be offered as a
treatment option for patients with failed surgeries.
Ayurvedic herbal treatment thus has a definite role to play
in the treatment and management of AVN.
The writer, Dr A A Mundewadi, is available as an Ayurvedic Consultant at www.mundewadiayurvedicclinic.com and www.ayurvedaphysician.com
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