Osteomyelitis is a type of bone infection which is caused by bacteria or fungi that enter the bone through the bloodstream, nearby tissue, or an open wound. This infection leads to inflammation, pain, and can weaken the affected bone. Osteomyelitis is often treated with antibiotics, and in severe cases, surgery may be required to remove infected bone tissue. If it is not treated within the right time, it can lead to permanent bone loss.
Osteomyelitis can be caused due to various factors. Some of them are mentioned below:
Bacterial Infections: It can be often caused by Staphylococcus aureus. It is a bacteria that can enter the bone through the bloodstream, especially after infections elsewhere in the body.
Injury or Trauma: Open fractures, deep cuts, or wounds can allow bacteria to reach the bone and cause Osteomyelitis.
Surgery: Bone or joint surgeries, especially with implants, can increase the risk of this condition if the bacteria enters the area during or after surgery.
Weak Immune System: Medical conditions like diabetes, HIV, or cancer weaken the immune system, making infections more likely to occur.
Circulation Disorders: Poor blood flow, as seen in diabetes or vascular disease, can raise the risk of infection and slow healing, increasing the likelihood of bacteria to thrive.
Osteomyelitis might show many symptoms depending whether it is acute or chronic. Some of the common osteomyelitis symptoms are discussed below:
Persistent or throbbing pain in the affected bone or joint area might be observed.
Visible inflammation over the infected area might be seen.
Fever and chills are common in the acute cases of Osteomyelitis.
Feeling tired or weak is a general sign of infection.
Difficulty in moving the affected limb or joint comfortably.
Pus or other drainage might ooze from an open wound near the infection in the chronic cases.
Infection can sometimes lead to decreased appetite or weight loss.
Osteomyelitis is a bone infection that can be categorised in different ways based on how it started and is progressing further.
Hematogenous Osteomyelitis: This type of infection spreads through the bloodstream. It usually affects bones in the spine but can also occur in bones in the pelvis, collarbone, and long bones of the body.
Contiguous Osteomyelitis: This type of infection spreads from nearby tissue. It can occur in people with normal blood flow or those with poor blood flow, especially in people with diabetes or vascular issues.
Acute Osteomyelitis: This form of osteomyelitis appears quickly, within two weeks of the infection starting. It is the most common type of bone infection.
Subacute Osteomyelitis: This type develops over a longer period, between a month and several months after the infection begins.
Chronic Osteomyelitis: This type takes several months or more to develop and often happens if the infection isn’t fully treated.
Each stage of osteomyelitis requires a different treatment, with more advanced stages often needing more intensive management.
Medullary Osteomyelitis: The infection is limited to the bone marrow. It is often seen in hematogenous osteomyelitis, where the infection spreads through the bloodstream.
Superficial Osteomyelitis: The infection involved only the outer surface or layer of the bone.
Localised Osteomyelitis: Infection has spread deeper, involving both the outer and inner bone, but has not caused full bone instability.
Diffuse Osteomyelitis: The infection in this stage is extensive, affecting the entire thickness of the bone.
At Jiva we offer authentic, advanced Ayurvedic treatments for Osteomyelitis. The treatment is based on the fundamental philosophy of healing the root cause of diseases. Jiva’s certified experts recommend some dietary modification and herbal therapies among other techniques, to ensure total healing and long-term relief.
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Diet & Lifestyle Guidance: Expert recommendations on how to change your diet and everyday habits to get you in peak health.
Ayurvedic treatment of Osteomyelitis involves use of certain specific Ayurvedic medicines that include a variety of herbs and medicinal plants, formulated as per the instructions mentioned in the Ayurvedic Shastras.
Following are some recommended Ayurvedic herbs used in Ayurvedic medicines for Osteomyelitis:
Turmeric (Curcuma longa): It is known for its strong anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Turmeric can help reduce pain and fight infection.
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): Ashwagandha strengthens the immune system, reduces inflammation, and supports bone health.
Guggul (Commiphora mukul): Guggul has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, making it useful in managing infection and inflammation in bones.
Shallaki (Boswellia serrata): It is used for its powerful anti-inflammatory properties and helps in reducing pain and swelling.
Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia): It is an immune booster and helps reduce toxins and inflammation in the body.
In Ayurveda, Osteomyelitis is managed by focusing on reducing inflammation, boosting immunity, and promoting tissue healing. Herbal remedies like Guduchi, Ashwagandha, and Turmeric are used for their anti-inflammatory and immune-enhancing properties.
Yes, if left untreated, Osteomyelitis can lead to severe complications like sepsis, which can be life-threatening and potentially cause death.
Home remedies for Osteomyelitis focus on supporting immune function and reducing inflammation. Some of the home remedies for Osteomyelitis are turmeric, garlic, vitamin C, warm compresses, and hydration.
Ayurvedic treatment for Osteomyelitis focuses on reducing infection, balancing doshas, and supporting bone health. Some Ayurvedic treatments for Osteomyelitis are herbal remedies, formulations, panchakarma therapy, and diet and lifestyle.
Ayurvedic treatment for Osteomyelitis offers natural and holistic benefits by addressing the infection, reducing inflammation, and supporting bone health. Herbal remedies like turmeric, guggul, and neem possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to manage pain and prevent infection spread.
Yes, it is possible to use Ayurvedic medicines alongside prescribed treatments for Osteomyelitis, but it should be done under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Ayurvedic medicine for Osteomyelitis during pregnancy should be used with caution. While most herbs are beneficial, some Ayurvedic treatments may not be safe for pregnant women
Yes, Ayurvedic medicine for Osteomyelitis can have side effects, especially if used improperly or in high doses. Some herbs may cause allergic reactions, gastrointestinal issues, or interact with other medications.