Osteomalacia Ayurvedic Treatment

Weakening of bones due to deranged bone formation is called osteomalacia. It is caused by deficiency of vitamin D, which is the essential factor for bone formation. Vitamin D helps in the absorption of calcium (which strengthens bone tissue) from stomach. It is synthesised in skin on exposure to sunlight. Dietary source of vitamin D are small fishes, milk products etc. Therefore, reduced dietary supplements of vitamin D and nom-exposure to sunlight result in deficiency of the nutrient. It may also be caused by poor absorption from intestine.

Osteomalacia Signs and Symptoms

Weakness of bones, recurrent and easy fractures, muscle weakness, difficulty to walk, pain in bones (especially over hip),

Osteomalacia Ayurvedic Analysis

Depletion of asthidhatu/ bone tissue (Asthidhatu kshaya) causes pain in bones and breaking of teeth/ hair etc. Vitiation of Asthivaha srotas (channels of nourishment to asthi dhatu) leads to deranged nourishment to asthidhatu resulting in its weakness.

Osteomalacia Causative Factors (Ayurveda)

Srotorodha in asthidhatu leads to its kshaya. Increased intake of food and drinks that aggravate vata also causes asthikshaya.

Possible Complications of Osteomalacia Disease

Untreated cases will experience repeated fractures, tooth problems, rickets (in children) etc.

Other systemic diseases and precautions to be taken

Some diseases of the intestine, certain cancers, kidney or liver disease may interfere with the absorption of vitamin D from intestine. Seizure medication is another cause of osteomalacia. Consider all these factors before planning the treatment.

Osteomalacia Disease Management with Ayurveda Treatment

The management is decided by considering many factors like cause of the disease, co-morbidities, age of the patient, place of residence, occupation etc. Generally, internal medications that improve agni (digestive and assimilative power) are given. Remove the srotorodha and nourish the dhatu. Snehana (internal/ external/ both), swedana (mild sudation), virechana (purgation therapy), vasthi (with decoction and oil) etc are given along with yoga, pranayama and meditation.

Diet

Consume more whole grains, milk, dairy products, nuts, leafy vegetables, egg, sea fishes etc. reduce the intake of spicy/ bitter/ astringent tastes, dry and cold food, buttermilk and Bengal gram.

Exercise

Mild to moderate exercise is recommended along with treatment as per the direction of physician.

Osteomalacia Preventive Aspects in Ayurveda

Take healthy nutritious diet. Exercise regularly. Expose to mild sunlight daily. Manage any disease that interfere with proper assimilation of food. Avoid sedentary habit.

Importance of Diet

As vitamin D and calcium are the important factors for maintain bone health, ensure their adequate intake through diet.

Lifestyle

Avoid over-exertion, consumption of very light food/ dry and cold food/ skipping of meals. Maintain healthy body weight. Reduce the consumption of alcohol and quit smoking. Ensure regular exposure to sunlight. Take food that contain more calcium and vitamin D.