Ayurvedic Treatment for Arthritis Arthritis is a common chronic disease of the musculoskeletal system which is caused by inflammation of the joints and other structures of the body. It is characterized by loss of movement due to pain and stiffness in the joints. According to the World Health Organization, the prevalence of arthritis is estimated to be nearly 1.4 billion people, and is expected to reach 2.1 billion by 2020. Approximately 35 million Americans have been diagnosed with arthritis, and 10 million new cases are diagnosed each year. The most commonly affected joints are the knees, hips, hands, spine, feet, and wrists. The knee is the major joint involved, followed by the hip, shoulder, and wrist. Other joints can also be affected. The most common symptoms of arthritis include joint pain, tenderness, swelling, stiffness, and deformity. There are over 100 types of arthritis, but the most common type is Osteoarthritis (OA), which affects 60% to 85% of patients who have the disease. There is no cure for arthritis, but there are ways to manage it. The most commonly used medications for the treatment of arthritis are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin and ibuprofen. These medications may be used alone or in conjunction with other treatments. Other common treatments include heat therapy and physical therapy, and acupuncture is also sometimes used. There is also no cure for osteoarthritis, but there are ways to reduce the pain and symptoms associated with it. Many types of exercise and physical therapies have been shown to help patients. These include tai chi, swimming, yoga, and low impact aerobics. There is some evidence that certain herbal medicines have been helpful in the treatment of arthritis. Some common examples include feverfew, red clover, ginseng, garlic, curcumin, and turmeric. These herbs are taken in either the form of a tea or capsule. Herbs should only be used under the supervision of a qualified health professional and should not be taken without first consulting a physician. Ayurveda Treatments for Arthritis Ayurveda is the traditional medicine practiced in India. It originated about 5, 000 years ago and is based on the teachings of the Vedas. Ayurveda is divided into two systems: classical ayurveda and Unani medicine. Classical ayurveda includes the use of herbs, oils, massage, diet, lifestyle, and certain activities such as breathing exercises, meditation, and yoga. Unani medicine is a traditional medical system originating from Persia that uses herbal and mineral medicines. Ayurveda is still used in India today, especially for the treatment of arthritis. The following are the different types of arthritis and the treatment options that are used. Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common type of arthritis. OA occurs when the cartilage in the joints wears down, causing the bones to rub together and become inflamed. Symptoms of OA include joint pain, tenderness, stiffness, and deformity. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that affects the joints. Symptoms of RA include pain,