Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment for Costochondritis

Costochondritis is a medical condition in which there is a type of severe or moderate pain that is located in the chest and is usually seen in the rib joints. The pain is aggravated by movement and deep breathing. Costochondritis is usually caused by repeated minor trauma or unusual strenuous activity. The affected costochondral joints are tender to touch and pressure. Anti-inflammatory treatment and pain relievers, local application of ointments, adequate rest, gradual physical activity, and avoidance of strenuous activity form the conservative management of this condition.

Even under normal circumstances, minor trauma to the ribs causes pain that typically lasts four to six weeks despite conventional treatment. Costochondritis, which is inflammation of the rib joints, is often quite refractory to treatment and this experience can be frustrating for both the person affected and the treating physician. This condition fully responds to treatment only if the causative factors are well examined and efforts are made to comprehensively address these issues.

Ayurvedic herbal treatment for costochondritis aims to give anti-inflammatory drugs to treat the basic disorder, control pain and tenderness, and also strengthen the costochondral joints, to prevent recurrence of this condition. Treatment is given in different stages, with control of pain and inflammation forming the first stage. This can be done with oral medication and supplemented by the local application of medications in the form of ointments, pastes and medicated oils. Local application is usually followed by steam enhancement using herbal decoctions. The application of anti-inflammatory herbal pastes also provides long-term relief from pain and tenderness.

Once the pain, swelling and tenderness are under control, some medications with anti-inflammatory action in low doses are continued and, in addition to these medications, herbal medications are added that provide a strengthening action for these small joints and the ribs. and muscles that connect the ribs. This strengthening action provides long-term pain relief and also helps the affected person to avoid a recurrence of this situation, as well as to develop a greater tolerance for occupational activity and sitting postures.

Some affected people do not respond satisfactorily even with the treatments mentioned above. In these situations it is important to look for other factors that prevent a complete therapeutic response. Stress, depression, general weakness and prolonged fatigue are some of the factors responsible for this situation. The specific cause must be identified and treated with specific medications. In addition, medications may also be required to treat depression, stress, and weakness. Herbal medicines that have immunomodulatory action and provide long-term strength and vitality to the body are especially useful in this condition.

These people need to develop a daily schedule of regular exercise, relaxation techniques, eating healthy foods regularly at prescribed times, and getting enough rest and sleep. Meditation, Yogasanas, and breathing techniques like Pranayama can also help control pain or reduce sensitivity to pain. The non-irritating and strengthening medicated oils can also be applied to tender costochondral joints long-term, to provide complete relief from costochondritis.