Understanding Sandhivata (Osteoarthritis): A Comprehensive Overview
Sandhivata, commonly referred to as Osteoarthritis in modern medicine, is a degenerative joint disease affecting millions of people worldwide. Sandhivata is characterized by the progressive breakdown of cartilage, the smooth tissue that cushions the ends of bones within joints. This condition predominantly affects older adults, but it can also develop in younger individuals due to various risk factors.
Key Characteristics of Sandhivata (Osteoarthritis)
- Gradual Onset: Sandhivata develops over time, with initial symptoms often being mild discomfort in the joints. As the condition progresses, the pain becomes more pronounced, especially during or after physical activity.
- Localized Joint Pain: Sandhivata primarily targets specific joints such as the knees, hips, hands, and spine. Patients often describe the pain as a deep, aching sensation that worsens with movement.
- Morning Stiffness: One of the hallmark symptoms of Sandhivata is stiffness in the affected joints, especially after periods of inactivity, like in the morning. However, this stiffness typically improves with gentle movement.
- Crepitus: Many patients report a crackling or grinding sound in the joint during movement. This is due to the rough surfaces of bones rubbing together as cartilage wears away.
- Limited Range of Motion: As Sandhivata advances, joint mobility decreases, making daily activities such as walking, bending, or gripping objects challenging.
- Joint Deformities: In severe cases, Sandhivata can cause noticeable changes in the shape of the affected joints. For instance, the fingers may develop bony enlargements, known as Heberden’s or Bouchard’s nodes.
- Swelling and Tenderness: Some patients may experience mild swelling and tenderness in the affected joints, though this is less common compared to inflammatory forms of arthritis.
Risk Factors for Sandhivata
Several factors can increase the risk of developing Sandhivata:
- Age: The risk increases with age, particularly in those over 50.
- Obesity: Excess body weight puts additional stress on weight-bearing joints, particularly the knees and hips.
- Joint Injuries: Previous joint injuries, even those that occurred years ago, can increase the risk.
- Genetics: A family history of Sandhivata can predispose an individual to the condition.
- Gender: Women are more likely to develop Sandhivata, particularly after menopause.
Diagnosis and Treatment Approaches
Clinical Evaluation: Diagnosis is primarily based on a detailed clinical evaluation, including a review of symptoms and physical examination. Imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs are often used to confirm the diagnosis by showing joint space narrowing, cartilage loss, and the presence of bone spurs.
Conservative Management
- Lifestyle Modifications: Weight management, regular low-impact exercise, and physical therapy are crucial in managing Sandhivata symptoms.
- Medications: Pain relievers, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and corticosteroid injections are commonly used to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
Surgical Interventions:
- Joint Replacement Surgery: For severe cases where conservative treatments fail, joint replacement surgery (such as knee or hip replacement) is a viable option to restore function and improve quality of life.
- Rehabilitation and Support: Post-surgical rehabilitation is essential for recovery and includes physical therapy and lifestyle adjustments to maintain joint health.
At our hospital in Nagpur, we offer comprehensive allopathic treatment options for Sandhivata (Osteoarthritis). Our multidisciplinary team of orthopedic specialists, physical therapists, and pain management experts work together to provide personalized care plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Whether you are experiencing the early symptoms of Sandhivata or require advanced treatment in Nagpur, our facility is equipped to provide the highest standard of care.
