Category: Body Disorders

What is Myofascial Pain Syndrome?- Causes Symptoms & Ayurvedic Treatment

ABSTRACT

Healthy muscles keep our bodies strong and allow them to move freely. Healthy muscles make us enjoy swimming, playing sports, walking the dog, dancing and various other fun activities. There are a lot of daily activities that one must be able to do properly if their muscles are healthy like vacuuming of carpet, bed making or like cutting the lawn grass. Strong muscles play a great role in keeping a good shape of the joints. If muscles around any area get weak it will definitely make that area or joint more prone to injury. For strong muscles the process of muscle contraction must be regulated and if it gets disturbed the muscle health gets affected too. There are a lot of conditions which disturbs the muscles contraction, one among them is Myofascial Pain Syndrome. About this condition we are going to discuss in this article along with its Ayurvedic management.

INTRODUCTION

Myofascial Pain Syndrome is one of the Chronic Pain disorders that affects muscles as well as fascia. This condition is characterized by pressure on the trigger points of the muscles that cause pain in muscles and sometimes in other body parts which is known as referred pain. The typical cause of this syndrome is repetitive muscle contraction which mainly includes repetitive motions that are due to job or any other hobby and muscle tension related to stress. Everybody experiences muscle pain once in a while in their life but if it continues in the same place for a long time then it must be a myofascial pain. So now further we will discuss this syndrome in detail.

Myofascial Pain Syndrome

SOME FACTS ABOUT MYOFASCIAL PAIN SYNDROME

Following are some of the facts that one must know about Myofascial Pain Syndrome:

  • It affects about 85% of people
  • This condition is misdiagnosed with some other conditions such as neck pain, headache, pelvic pain, shoulder pain, etc.
  • Women and men are equally affected.
  • The most affected areas are sternocleidomastoid muscles, trapezius muscle, levator scapulae, infraspinatus and rhomboids.

CAUSES OF MYOFASCIAL PAIN SYNDROME

Following are the causes of Myofascial Pain Syndrome

  • Muscle injury
  • Repetitive muscle strain
  • Lack of muscle activity
  • Poor posture
  • Living or working in cold environment
  • Pinched nerve
  • Emotional stress
  • Hormonal problems
  • Metabolic problems
  • Vitamin deficiencies
  • Chronic infections

SYMPTOMS OF MYOFASCIAL PAIN SYNDROME

Symptoms vary from patient to patient in the condition of Myofascial Pain Syndrome. Sometimes the symptoms get aggravated at once which is known as flare up and on other times the pain remains dull or constant. Following symptoms can be experienced by a person with Myofascial Pain Syndrome

  • Deep aching tight, throbbing and stiff like discomfort.
  • Trigger points develop in the muscles which are small nodule-like formation in the muscles that leads to pain on touch.
  • Tenderness in muscles
  • Weakness in muscles
  • Depleted motion of muscles

Other health issues also coincide with it that are written as follows

  • Poor sleep
  • Headaches
  • Stress
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Fatigue

DIAGNOSIS OF MYOFASCIAL PAIN SYNDROME

As we discussed earlier this condition is misdiagnosed with various other conditions. As some people mistake their problem with various problems such as the problems related to ligaments, bones, nerves or tendons but in actual this condition is associated with muscles. There are no specific tests to be performed for diagnosing this condition. On the other hand there are no specific symptoms which can be examined to diagnose Myofascial Pain Syndrome like swelling, redness or any warmth like symptoms. The healthcare provider advises the best method for diagnosing this condition is regular physical examination of muscles. Especially one must have to notice the bulge or trigger points in the muscles which can cause referred pain.

Four trigger points are there which we have to notice

  • One is an active trigger point which locates within muscles and when pressure is applied, it leads to regional or local pain.
  • Then is the latent trigger point which is prone to be active but remains dormant.
  • The other point is the secondary trigger point, this is located in other muscles not in the same one which grasps the active trigger point.
  • The last and the fourth trigger point is satellite trigger point, this point becomes inactive as it gets overlapped by another region of the trigger point.

AYURVEDIC VIEW OF MYOFASCIAL PAIN SYNDROME

Ayurveda is a holistic science which has been working on the aim of maintaining the health of the healthy person and alleviating disease of the diseased person for more than 3000 years. Myofascial Pain Syndrome is a condition that as per Ayurveda is caused by ama dosha accumulation which leads to obstruction in the channels and aggravation of vata dosha which at last leads to pain. The main pathology is mamasavaha sroto dushti which leads to vata dosha aggravation and causes pain as a major symptom.

Sroto Dushti Nidaan: As per Acharya Charaka (Ch Vi. 5/23), Sroto Dushti nidaan are written as – Consuming food having same qualities as that of aggravated dosha, consuming food having qualities that depletes dhatus (bodily tissues), all such type of food items cause toxicity of Srotas (body channels).

Sroto Dushti common symptoms: As per Acharya (Ch.Vi. 5/24), there are four common symptoms of sroto dushti that are ati pravriti (excessive secretion of channels flow), Sang (obstruction), Vimarga gamana (flow of particular channel fluid to some other part), Sira Granthi (Cystic swelling in channels).

Above information is common for all kinds of sroto dushti, in Mamsa Vaha Srotas Dushti in this condition there are symptoms associated with sang (obstruction) in mamsa vaha srotas.

Causes of Mamsavaha Srotodushti

Heavy food intake, intake of food which cause obstruction in channels, sleeping after intake of food, etc.

Symptoms of mamsa vaha srotas dushti

It leads to various disorders associated with muscles.

Treatment of Mamsavaha Sroto Dushti per Ayurvedic texts

According to Ayurveda the line of treatment to be followed is – Agni Karma (para-surgical procedure with the help of heat), Shastra karma (Surgery) or Kshar karma (para-surgical procedure with the help of herbal alkali). In Myofascial Pain Syndrome Agni karma can be used among these three lines of treatments. This procedure assists in removing obstruction from mamsavah srotas and assists in pacifying the vata dosha at that place, helps in relieving pain also. Along with this various herbal remedies are also effective that we are going to discuss below. Let’s have a look!!!!!

HERBAL REMEDIES BY PLANET AYURVEDA FOR MYOFASCIAL PAIN SYNDROME

Planet Ayurveda is a GMP certified company which has been working as per the aim of Ayurveda for more than 10 years. This company formulates 100% Ayurvedic remedies which consist of pure minerals and herbs. These remedies are free from any kind of added preservatives and synthetic materials so these are devoid of any kind of side effects. Remedies are prepared almost with the aim of relieving all kinds of health conditions. For the purpose of alleviating Myofascial Pain Syndrome following remedies are provided by Planet Ayurveda. Let’s take a look at the properties of all herbal remedies and how they are considered as beneficial for the management of Myofascial Pain Syndrome.

  1. BOSWELLIA CURCUMIN
  2. YOGRAJ GUGGUL
  3. MORINGA CAPSULES
  4. NIRGUNDI SWARAS
  5. VRIHAT VATCHINTAMANI RAS
  6. BALA ASHWAGANDHA THAILAM

Herbal Remedies for Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Herbal Supplements for Myofascial Pain Syndrome

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

1. BOSWELLIA CURCUMIN

Boswellia Curcumin is a capsule formulation  by Planet Ayurveda. These capsules consist of standardized extracts of herbs Shallaki (Boswellia serrata) and Curcumin (Curcuma longa). Both these herbs have been well known for their analgesic and antiinflammatory properties since ancient times. As this condition is associated with excessive muscle pain so these capsules will help in eliminating that pain effectively.

Dosage: 1 capsule twice daily with plain water after meals

2. YOGRAJ GUGGUL

Yograj guggul is a classical Ayurvedic formulation which is prepared by Planet Ayurveda as mentioned in classical Ayurvedic texts. This is a tablet formulation which consists of ingredients such as guggul (Commiphora mukul), amalaki (Emblica officinalis), pippali (Piper longum) and various others. This remedy has been well known for its vata balancing properties since ancient times. So as this condition is vata predminating so this remedy effectively helps in relieving this condition.

Dosage: 2 tablets twice daily with plain water after meals.

3. MORINGA CAPSULES

Moringa Capsules is a single herbal formulation by Planet Ayurveda which consists of standardized extract of herb sahjan (Moringa oleifera). Moringa herb consists of wonderful antioxidant properties that effectively assist in eliminating free radicals from the body. It has nutritious properties that helps in providing nourishment to the affected muscles and leads to betterment of muscle functions.

Dosage: 1 capsule twice daily with plain water after meals.

4. NIRGUNDI SWARAS

Nirgundi swaras is a liquid formulation made up with juice extract of herb nirgundi (Vitex negundo). This is one of the best vata pacifying herbs as well as reduces ama dosha. By reducing ama dosha it helps in removing obstruction in the muscle channels. The pacification of vata dosha helps in relieving pain. Thus nirgundi swaras is a Beneficial Remedy for Myofascial Pain Syndrome.

Dosage: 2 tsp twice daily with added equal amount of water after

5. VRIHAT VATCHINTAMANI RAS

Vrihat Vatchintamani Ras is a classical ayurvedic formulation which has been used since ancient times for all kinds of vata vyadhi. The formulation is available in tablet form and consists of ingredients such as swarna bhasma (calyx of gold), rajata bhasma (calyx of silver), loha bhasma 9calyx of iron) and various others. These ingredients collectively assist in pacifying vata dosha and reduce symptoms of Myofascial Pain Syndrome. As this condition is also associated with vata dosha aggravation thus this remedy is effective for the same also.

Dosage: 1 tablet once daily to be chewed with warm ghee.

6. BALA ASHWAGANDHA THAILAM

Bala Ashwagandha Thailam is one of the herbal oils formulated by Planet Ayurveda. This oil consists of ingredients such as ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), bala (Sida cordifolia), sesame (Sesamum indicum) and various others. This herbal oil is used for local application. When applied locally by pacifying vata dosha it reduces pain. Also this oil provides nourishment to the affected muscles and improves their functions.

Dosage: Warm the oil and apply locally for 2-3 times a day.

CONCLUSION

Myofascial Pain Syndrome is one of the Chronic Pain disorders that affects muscles as well as fascia. Causes of this condition include Muscle injury, Repetitive muscle strain, Lack of muscle activity, Poor posture, Living or working in a cold environment and various others. Although symptoms vary from person to person, commonly seen symptoms are Tenderness in muscles, Weakness in muscles, Depleted motion of muscles, aching, throbbing pain and stiffness. As per Ayurveda this condition is caused by ama dosha accumulation which leads to obstruction in the channels and aggravation of vata dosha which at last leads to pain. For alleviating this condition various remedies are provided by Planet Ayurveda. If someone is suffering from the same condition then they freely use these remedies without thinking of its side effects as these are 100% pure.

Diseases of Horses Affecting the Hock Joint- Treatment With Herbal Products

Diseases of Horses Affecting the Hock Joint

Abstract

The Hock joint in the horse is a complex joint and is used to generate power to jump and to sit. The hock joint is prone to injury and degeneration. As the weight of the body of a horse puts pressure on joints. Thus the long-term pressure on joints or some infection may lead to the deprived status of joints. The weight of a horse’s body puts a lot of pressure on its joints. Healthy joint cartilage can withstand this pressure, but long-term inflammation damages the cartilage and other joint tissues. The loss of cartilage in arthritic joints results in impaired function. Our ancient classical texts have ample episodes of our beloved friends and athletes. We all heard about Maharana Pratap’s Chetak, an Epitome of Love and Valor, an obedient friend who fought for his rider till its last breath.

Diseases of horses affecting the hock joint

Introduction

The horse’s hock is composed of 10 bones and 4 joints and is equivalent to the ankle of a human on the basis of evolution. These bones and joints are connected and supported by several ligaments. The upper part of the hock joint is formed by Tarso crural joint (TCJ), which is the largest joint with a ball and socket mechanism. It is a high-motion joint due to its greatest movement range. The other joints are PIT (proximal intertarsal), DIT (distal intertarsal), and tarsometatarsal (TMT) joint. These 3 joints act as low-motion joints and shock absorbers as well. The anatomy of the Hock joint is important to understand as to mark which part of the joint is affected the most. Horses of all disciplines can suffer from this problem as they always work heavily on the hind. Thus this is a brief about the general anatomy of the Hock joint of horses and later we will discuss the disease of the Hock joint with their ayurvedic approach to management. Let’s read

Clinical features

  • Pain in the Hock joint
  • Loss of performance
  • Lameness which can be intermittent
  • Swelling
  • Feeling of heat in the joint
  • Difficulty in going downhill
  • Feeling of lower back pain for compensation for hocks

Diseases associated with the hock joint

The following are the diseases associated with the hock joint in horses. We will discuss a few of the diseases here in this article

  1. Bog spavin
  2. Bone spavin
  3. Curb
  4. OCD

1. Bog spavin

Bog spavin is associated with tibiotarsal joint swelling of the hock of a horse. The joint of the horse becomes distended by synovial fluid. In younger horses, Bog spavin is caused by the defective tibiotarsal joint whereas in mature and old horses it is due to joint capsule chronic strain. The general causes include synovitis, joint degeneration, and regular/long-term strain of the capsule of the joint. There are no such significant changes in bone status in bog spavin. Trauma, infection, and the congenital joint defect can be the other underlying causes that may cause Bog spavin. In some horses swelling of the joint is also observable with the middle back surface of the hock. The bog spavin indicates that the horse is suffering from joint disease. The lameness may or may not be present, but in case of a heavy workload, the lameness may be seen. X-rays can be done to find out any change in the structural status of the joint.

2. Bone spavin

Bone spavin is the growth of the bone in the lower hock joint of the horse. The most possible causes of bone spaviness are cartilage compression, uneven loading, dressage, and Standardbred racing. It is a degenerative and non-septic type of arthritis. It is the basic lameness of hindlimb and is seen mainly in ponies and older horses as well. The lameness can be moderate to severe and can be associated with one or both joints. The lameness can range from mild stiffness with toe dragging to quite severe. Bone spavin is osteoarthritis and thus a degenerative condition of the bones and joint cartilage. The loss of cartilage gradually is the reason for the lameness.

3. Curb

Curb can be simply defined as collective injuries associated with soft tissues of the long plantar regions. The basic cause behind the curb is strain. There is associated thickening of the plantar tarsal ligament that runs down the back of the hock. The cause is typically strain. The other possible causes are falling, jumping, or pulling. The poor conformation of the hock joint increases the chances to develop the conditions. So the swelling in the distal lateral hock region area is the curb. This ligament may become inflamed and thickened after falling, slipping, jumping, or pulling. The condition is most common in Standardbreds, in which poor conformation of the hock makes the horse more prone to develop the condition. When we observe the horse from any side we can observe an enlargement or protrusion over the bone 10 cm below the hock point. A newly formed curb can show inflammation and lameness. Chronic curb may not show much lameness. The horse stands and favours the limb with the heel elevated. In cases of chronic curb, there is rarely any lameness or pain.

4. Osteochondritis dessecans (OCD)

Osteochondritis is a problem of abnormal joint development. This is a progressive condition associated with pain and inflammation. In this condition due to abnormalities of bone and cartilage, small fragments may result in breaking off and seen floating around/inside the joint. OCD is generally seen in young horses and foals. The other causes are nutritional issues, hormonal imbalances, or trauma due to overexertion. It is a type of developmental disorder.

5. Osteoarthritis (OA)

OA arises production of additional bone, due to additional bone and arises in the lower hock. Due to new bone formation, joint movement is restricted with pain and lameness. Horses who are involved in high-intensity workouts are more prone. Other associated factors for OA are poor conformation such as cow hock (conformational deformity of tarsals). Although it is also evident that horses undergoing low levels of workout may also suffer.

The ayurvedic aspect of horse hock diseases

Pashu chikitsa in Ayurveda shows the extension of Ayurveda. It is the developmental work done by Acharayas by virtue of their intellect that is always commendable. The origin of Pashu chikitsa and its development shows an association between humans and animals. Ancient texts are loaded with information about animal care. Sandhi roga in horses is prevalent due to the vitiation of doshas, especially the Vata dosha. Excessive exertion leads to an increase in the Vata dosha and reduced Kapha lead to the degreasing of the joints. The aggravated Vata causes pain and leads to the deprived status of the hock joint. The care of an animal by humans and vice versa shows our rich culture and high moral values. Planet ayurveda is following the principles of Ayurveda for the well-being of creatures, humans as well as our beloved pets.

Herbal remedies by Planet Ayurveda for horse hock diseases

Planet Ayurveda is a GMP-certified hub for the manufacturing of best-quality herbal remedies. The prime motive and ambition of Planet Ayurveda are to promote Ayurveda in each and every household of the world. We care for the pets because of the love and the companionship and want pet parents to prefer more herbal ways rather than synthetic herbs. Below are the herbs for the management of hock joint diseases in horses

Product List

  1. Yograj Guggul
  2. Joint Aid Plus
  3. Boswellia Curcumin
  4. Ashwagandha Capsules

Herbal Products for Diseases of horses affecting the hock jointBuy: Now: Herbal Products for Diseases of horses affecting the hock joint

Brief explanation

1. Yograj guggul

Yograj guggul is a polyherbal formulation having Commiphora mukul, Cyperus rotundus, Plumbago zeylanica, Emblica Officinalis, Terminalia bellirica, Terminalia chebula, Piper longum and many more as the chief ingredients. Yograj guggul helps to relieve the pain and inflammation in the body. It is helpful to manage the autoimmunity conditions in the body. Thus yograj guggul has the ability to counter the issues of pain. It helps to prevent the status of excessive pain due to Vata pacifying properties.

Dosage– 6 tablets twice daily.

2. Joint aid plus

Joint Aid plus of Planet Ayurveda is a natural formulation of Planet Ayurveda having Nirgundi (Vitex negundo), Shallaki (Boswellia serrata), Guggul (Commiphora mukul), Sonth (Zingiber officinale), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) as a chief ingredient. This formulation is useful for the better status of joints in horses. The Vata pacifying properties of the added herbs are used to reduce joint pain and have good results in the diseases associated with hock joints in horses.

Dosage– 4 caps twice daily.

3. Boswellia curcumin

The Boswellia Curcumin of Planet Ayurveda is a herbal formulation loaded with pure extract of Boswellia and Curcumin. This herbal formulation is able to manage the conditions associated with inflammation in the body. Boswellia itself is an analgesic and curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties. Boswellia curcumin also helps to prevent aggravated inflammation. Very useful anti-inflammatory supplement and helps to reduce the pain and swelling in the hock joint.

Dosage– 4 caps twice daily.

4. Ashwagandha capsules

The chief ingredient of the Ashwagandha capsule is the standardised extract of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera). Ashwagandha is known to reduce inflammation and act as a pain reliever. The presence of Withanolides in ashwagandha helps to reduce inflammation. Also ashwagandha acts as a powerful analgesic which is evident to soothe the nervous system and reduce pain as well. Ashwagandha is also denoted as the scent of a horse and is referred to as increased strength as well.

Dosage– 4 caps twice daily.

Contact Planet Ayurveda Support Team to provide you the costing / ordering and delivery information at – costing.planetayurveda@gmail.com or Call at 0172-521-4030 (India), +91-172-521-4030 (Outside India) or Whatsapp at (+91) 9915-593-604

Conclusion

Horses are prone to hock diseases due to long-term exertion throughout their whole life. Certain factors like joint defects, infections, and poor posture are the leading causes. The herbal remedies of Planet Ayurveda are helpful to manage the status of horses, our friends, and riders. It is our duty to inform the horse masters about the herbs for disease-free riders. Herbs promote long and disease-free life and prevent pets from the side effects of synthetic herbs.