FACET ARTHROPATHY SYMPTOMS, CAUSES, AND HERBAL REMEDIES

ABSTRACT

Facet joints are those in the spine, or spinal column, that permit the back to twist, bend, and align properly. Facet arthropathy is the term used to describe the swelling and soreness of these joints. The facet joint is encircled by a fibrous joint capsule and comprises hyaline cartilage surfaces, synovial fluid, and a synovial membrane. A common symptom of facet arthropathy of the lumbar spine is chronic back discomfort, which usually affects elderly persons. Older people and those with a high body mass index (BMI) are most likely to experience it. People should consult a doctor very once because this illness might have a severe effect on their quality of life.

INTRODUCTION

A typical source of lower back pain is the lumbar zygapophysial joint, also referred to as the facet joint. A vertebra’s inferior articular process and the superior articular process of the vertebra below it are connected by the posterolateral articulation, which forms the facet joint. Enclosed by a fibrous joint capsule, the facet joint has hyaline cartilage surfaces, a synovial membrane, and other characteristics of a true synovial joint.(Source: ) Inside the intra-articular folds lies a meniscoid structure. One level above the joint and at the same level as the posterior ramus are the medial branches that innervate the facet joint bilaterally. The pathological process of facet joint arthrosis involves the failure of the synovial facet joints. Degenerative alterations start with the breakdown of cartilage, which is followed by the development of erosions, the narrowing of joint spaces, and ultimately subchondral bone sclerosis. Concomitant intervertebral disk degeneration, advanced age, and a sagittal facet joint orientation are risk factors.

CAUSES

Ageing, repetitive stress on the joints, bad posture, and obesity are some of the circumstances that lead to facet joint wear and tear and cause facet arthropathy. Other causes of facet arthropathy include synovial cysts, which are abnormal, fluid-filled sacs that can form in the spinal joints mostly as a result of age, and traumatic spine injuries such as those sustained in auto accidents. Furthermore, osteoarthritis, sometimes referred to as degenerative joint disease, is a chronic, non-inflammatory illness that causes joint pain and stiffness due to progressive wear and tear of the underlying bone and cartilage in the joints. Facet arthropathy frequently develops in this condition.

SYMPTOMS

The most common spinal levels where lumbar facet arthropathy occurs are L4-L5 and L5-S1. Depending on where the injured facet joint is located, facet arthropathy presents as either back discomfort or neck pain that worsens with twisting, standing, or bending over. The pain is usually localised to one location of the spine, even though it typically presents as a dull ache on both sides of the back. The pain in the lower limbs could be caused by the enlarged joints straining adjacent nerve roots. Bending forward typically improves facet arthropathy discomfort as the strain on the facet joints decreases. Over time, facet arthropathy may give rise to problems such as osteophytes, or bone spurs. These microscopic bony projections narrow the spaces in the spine where nerve roots can pass, which can cause neuropathic pain and spinal stenosis.

DIAGNOSIS

A complete patient history and physical examination are usually the first steps in the diagnosis of facet arthropathy. Additionally, imaging tests such as MRIs, CT scans, or X-rays can be carried out to assess the spine and find indications of facet joint degeneration. To confirm the diagnosis, anti-inflammatory drugs can be injected into the facet joints. It is probable that the patient has facet arthropathy if the injection relieves their symptoms.

MANAGEMENT

• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Avoid movements that make discomfort worse
• Steroid injections
• Physical therapy
• Nerve ablation

PREVENTIONS

• Retain a healthy weight
• Prevent spinal injuries
• Exercise on a regular basis and keep proper posture
• Put on safety equipment when playing sports

COMPLICATIONS

• Spinal stenosis
• Temporary numbness and paralysis
• Headache
• Bleeding
• Increased post-procedural pain
• Infection

AYURVEDIC VIEW

In ayurveda, facet’s arthropathy is correlated with vata vyadhi. All of the body’s central nervous system functions are under the vata’s jurisdiction. It is in charge of every movement the body makes. Disease caused by Vata in its vitiated condition is called “Vatavyadhi.” As a result of consuming Vatakara Ahara and Vihara, Vata Dosha becomes vitiated and lodges in Rikta Strotasa, or the Strotas, where Shunyata of Snehadi Guna is present, resulting in ailments associated with that Strotas. Vata, which travels throughout the body, settles in the Rikta Strotas, and further vitiates the Strotas leading to the development of Vata Vyadhi, is aggravated by Dhatu Kshaya, according to Acharya Vaghbhata.

CAUSES OF VATA VYADHI

• The causes of these ailments include rough, light, cold, and inadequate food
• Excessive vigils and coitus
• Excessive purification of blood and pollutants
• Excessive movement
• Wastage of dhatus
• Uncomfortable beds and seats
• Daytime sleep
• Injury to a vital component
• Falling from horses and other fast-moving vehicles

SYMPTOMS OF VATA VYADHI (Charak sutra 20/12)

• Decrease in strength
• Pain in the bones
• Distension of the abdomen
• Dislocation
• Loss of sleep
• Separation
• Pain and discomfort
• Numbness
• Throbbing sensation in body parts
• Weakness
• Difficulty in movements
• Piercing pain

HERBAL REMEDIES FOR FACET’S ARTHROPATHY BY PLANET AYURVEDA

Ayurvedic clinic Planet Ayurveda has received GMP certification and produces a range of drugs to treat and prevent various health concerns. All of Planet Ayurveda’s formulations are 100% pure, devoid of all additives and preservatives, and developed under the careful supervision of M.D. Ayurvedic Practitioners to ensure that no adverse effects occur. As we will cover later in the article, Planet Ayurveda offers a variety of supplements for the treatment of facet arthropathy.

PRODUCT LIST

1. Boswellia Curcumin
2. Lakshadi Guggul
3. Aamvatantak Churna
4. Maha Rasnadi Kwath
5. Vrihat Vatchintamani Ras

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

1. BOSWELLIA CURCUMIN

Curcumin (curcuma longa) and Boswellia serrata (Shallaki) are combined to create Boswellia curcumin, a single herbal pill produced by Planet Ayurveda. It possesses antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s sharp in taste. It is what cleanses the blood. Haritaki’s primary actions are hence laxative, carminative, and digestive. Liver activities are stimulated and all body organs, including the heart, brain, and lungs, receive a tonic boost. It is good for diseases resulting from overindulgence in alcohol and aids in the dissolution of glandular swellings.

Dosage: Take one capsule twice daily.

2. LAKSHADI GUGGUL

Lakshadi guggul, a polyherbal tablet from Planet Ayurveda, is formulated with ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Terminalia arjuna (Arjuna), Asthisamharaka (Cissus quadrangularis), Laccifer lacca (Laksha), and a few more plants. It reduces ligament pain and increases bone density. The ashwagandha and shuddha Guggul in this blend help to reduce pain by regulating the vata dosha. These vitamins support and maintain bone health and mass. It effectively reduces inflammation and treats neurological disorders. It decreases total and triglyceride cholesterol levels and aids in blood sugar regulation.

Dosage: Take two tablets twice daily after a meal.

3. AAMVATANTAK CHURNA

The constituents of Aamvatantak churna, a multi-herbal preparation, include ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), gorakhmundi (Sphaeranthus indicus), curcuma longa (Haridra), and Colchicum autumnale (Suranjan). It is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory qualities, which help to nourish joints and reduce pain and sensitivity. This powder purges the body and aids in preserving the balance of uric acid metabolism.

Dosage: Take one teaspoon twice a day after a meal.

4. MAHA RASNADI KWATH

Planet Ayurveda creates Maha Rasnadi Kwath, a multi-herbal kwath, containing Erand (Ricinus communis), Tinospora cordifolia (Giloy), Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa), and Cassia fistula (Amaltas). Sandalwood is one of the best medicines for vata ailments. It has a hot, burning effect, but it tastes sweet and strong as well. It possesses analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and carminative properties. Maha Rasnadi Kwath relieves aches in the muscles and joints. Muscle stiffness is removed by it. It works by lowering inflammation to reduce pain. It increases one’s hunger.

Dosage: Take two teaspoons twice daily after a meal.

5. VRIHAT VATCHINTAMANI RAS

Planet Ayurveda formulates Vrihat vatchintamani ras, which are multi-herbal pills, using substances such as purified sulphur and mercury (Suta Bhasma), pearl calx (Mukta Bhasma), gold calx (Swarna Bhasma), and Abhrak Bhasma (Mica ash). It is helpful in treating vitiated vata and its associated conditions, such as neuralgia, paralysis, facial palsy, and hemiplegia. It also aids in the symptoms of vitiated pitta dosha, which include headaches, dizziness, and stomach problems. It reduces muscle soreness, joint discomfort, and viral fever.

Dosage: Take one tablet once daily.

CONCLUSION

The facet joints, which allow for correct back alignment, bending, and twisting, become bloated and uncomfortable when facet arthropathy occurs. Facet arthropathy is a possible cause of persistent back pain. Your body’s facet joints are the joints on the back of your spine that balance the discs inside the vertebrae. These joints enable the spine to twist, flex, and align. Facet arthropathy and vataj vyadhi are connected in Ayurveda. The body’s open channels get clogged with this agitated vata, which can lead to a variety of illnesses affecting the whole body or just a specific area, such as the bones. We covered facet arthropathy in detail in this post, along with a few natural therapies.