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What is Avascular Necrosis (AVN)?

Avascular Necrosis (AVN) is a disease that occurs when bone tissue dies due to a lack of blood supply. The condition mainly affects the hip joint, although the shoulders, knees, and even the ankles may also be involved. Chronic AVN, if left untreated, progresses to advanced stages, causing severe joint pain and movement disturbances and often requiring invasive management.

However, Ayurvedic treatment for AVN emphasises root-cause therapy by correcting dosha imbalances, improving blood flow, and utilising various physiotherapies for bone healing and alleviating pain.

Common Causes of Avascular Necrosis

Some of the common Avascular Necrosis causes include:

Trauma and Injury: Bone injuries, especially fractures and displacements, usually affect the surrounding blood vessels and thus cause inadequate blood supply, which leads to bone death.

Long-term Use of Corticosteroids: AVN may be associated with long-term use of corticosteroid medications. These drugs may be able to restrict the blood supply, which may trigger Necrosis.

Excessive Alcohol Consumption: The persistent consumption of alcohol accumulates fatty acids in the blood vessels, cutting off the supply of blood to the bones.

Medical Conditions: Renal failure, lupus, and certain other coagulation disorders could restrict the blood supply and increase the risk of AVN.

High Cholesterol: Increased cholesterol levels will cause obstructions of the relatively small blood vessels and cut off the blood supply to the bone area.

Radiation Therapy: This treatment may weaken bones and disrupt blood supply, leading to AVN.

Other Causes

Diabetes, metabolic disorders such as osteoporosis, and some autoimmune disease entities like rheumatoid arthritis are associated with an increased risk of AVN.

Signs and Symptoms of Avascular Necrosis

Some common Avascular Necrosis symptoms include:

Symptoms

Joint Pain

Pain localised to the weight-bearing joint affected is usually the most common symptom, often worsening with activities that increase load or pressure on the joints.

Limited Range of Motion

Restrictions in movement typically become more noticeable in the later stages of AVN as the disease progresses and joint damage increases.

Joint Stiffness

Nocturnal symptoms may include a range of complaints, from bone pain to muscle stiffness, joint pain, weakness, or dislocation at the affected site. If severe, these symptoms should prompt immediate medical attention.

Joint Weakness

Chronic pain in the joints may be a symptom indicating joint instability and weakness.

Pain During Rest

Some individuals may experience discomfort during rest. Despite minimal joint use, this occurs in the form of aching or throbbing sensations.

Jiva Ayunique Treatment Philosophy™ – A Holistic Approach to AVN

Jiva’s Ayunique™ treatment philosophy provides a personalised, holistic approach to treating AVN. We provide individualised treatment that targets improving blood circulation to the bones, reducing inflammation, and promoting bone regeneration. The treatment plans are customised to target the very root causes of the disease, and instead of just treating symptoms, they focus on holistic healing, balance and stability in totality.

Core Principles of Jiva Ayunique Treatment Philosophy™

HACCP-certified Ayurvedic Medicines: These scientifically developed blends help maintain dosha balance and rejuvenate joints.

Yoga and Meditation: Gentle breath control techniques and non-straining postures can help improve blood circulation and induce a sense of tranquillity. For patients with AVN, Asanas like vajrasana and gentle stretches are particularly beneficial, promoting a peaceful state of mind.

Dietary and Lifestyle Changes: Expert recommendations on changing your eating habits and lifestyle for optimum health.

Ayurvedic Therapies: Ayurvedic therapies, such as Basti therapy and Abhyanga, are effective in increasing bone mass density and strengthening joints. This study combines these therapeutic interventions for osteopenia.

Ayurvedic Medicines for AVN

Ayurvedic herbs are incorporated into AVN management to relieve pain, improve blood circulation, and restore bone health. Some Ayurvedic medicines for AVN include:

Guggulu (Commiphora mukul): Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, Guggulu is considered an adequate bone and circulation enhancement remedy.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): This herb can protect the body by acting as an antidote to the effects of stress, maintaining balance in the Vata dosha, and strengthening the muscles and bones.

Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus): It is a well-known herbal plant that is good for nutrition, helps repair cells, and has anti-inflammatory activity, which can help reduce the inflammation associated with AVN.

Nirgundi (Vitex negundo) : This herb is used to relieve joint pain. Nirgundi is a very effective painkiller and anti-inflammatory herb.

Shallaki (Boswellia serrata): Julguddu or Shallaki, Indian Frankincense, has also improved joint mobility and reduced pain.

Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia): Helps to boost immunity, Guduchi aids in the fight against inflammation and tissue restoration.

Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa): An anti-inflammatory herb that aids in reducing swelling and improving joint health.

Frequently Asked Questions About Avascular Necrosis (AVN)

Can Ayurvedic treatment cure AVN permanently?

Ayurvedic treatments can address AVN's underlying causes and, with the right therapies and lifestyle changes, may help prevent further progression.

How long does Ayurvedic treatment for AVN take to show results?

The time frame may differ for individuals, but it typically ranges between several weeks and a few months, depending upon the condition of the affected person and their compliance with the treatment.

What lifestyle changes are recommended for AVN in Ayurveda?

Avoid excessive weight-bearing activities, including calcium-rich nutrition and gentle joint exercises.

Does diet help in relieving AVN symptoms?

It is helpful to include factors such as food rich in nutrients and warm foods that increase calcium, strengthen the bones, and maintain the balance of Vata.

Are there specific yoga poses recommended for AVN?

Vajrasana, Sukhasana, and Tadasana are all beneficial stretches that keep the joints in place while calming them down.

How does stress influence AVN?

Vata aggravation may worsen AVN in patients with higher degrees of stress, as it may cause stress within the body. Managing stress is part of Ayurvedic treatment.

Is AVN linked to other health conditions?

AVN is often linked with conditions like osteoporosis, lupus, and metabolic disorders that affect bone health.

Are Ayurvedic treatments safe for long-term use?

Ayurvedic treatments using natural herbs are generally considered safe for long-term use under the guidance of certified practitioners.

Can Ayurveda help with AVN caused by trauma?

Yes, Ayurveda offers treatments and herbal support to manage trauma-induced AVN and promote recovery.

How long can you live with Avascular Necrosis?

Most patients respond well to treatment for Avascular necrosis and can live for several decades with the condition. In the absence of any therapy, AVN tends to worsen over time and will also result in the collapse of bone structures such as the joints.