Pigmented Villonodular Synovitis – Symptoms, Causes and Ayurvedic Treatment

ABSTRACT

In a robust joint, the synovial membrane generates a limited quantity of fluid that greases the cartilage and assists in motion. However, in Pigmented Villonodular Synovitis (PVNS), the synovial membrane produces excessive fluid, resulting in joint inflammation and causing intense discomfort during movement. PVNS typically targets a solitary joint. The knee is affected in approximately eighty percent of patients, although PVNS can also impact the ankle joint, hip joint, shoulder joint, elbow joint, hands, feet and most rarely jaw. This condition can manifest in individuals of all age groups, but it predominantly occurs in young adults ranging from twenty to fifty years old. It is a very painful condition and in Allopathy it requires surgical interventions. Let’s delve into the discussion on this condition, including its causes, symptoms, and the potential Benefits of Ayurvedic Medicines in managing it.

INTRODUCTION

Pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) is a pathological condition characterized by the hypertrophy and excessive proliferation of the synovium—a delicate layer of tissue that envelops the joints and tendons. This aberrant growth results in the formation of a benign mass or tumor, which exhibits non-malignant behavior and does not metastasize to distant parts of the body. Nonetheless, PVNS is a progressive ailment, gradually deteriorating and potentially causing bone impairment and arthritic conditions. While the knee is the primary site of manifestation for PVNS, it can also affect other joints. But this is a rare condition that usually affects two people in one million of the population.

TYPES

PVNS manifests in two variations—Localized and Diffused.

1. LOCALIZED PVNS

When the growth affects the tendons that uphold the joint or is limited to a specific region within the joint, it is referred to as localized PVNS. Typically, this variant exhibits favorable responses to treatment.

2. DIFFUSE PVNS

In cases where the ailment is widespread and encompasses the entirety of a joint, it is termed diffuse PVNS. This form is rare and tends to display heightened aggressiveness or pain and poses greater challenges in terms of treatment.

CAUSES

The etiology of PVNS remains uncertain. While genetic alterations linked to PVNS have been recognized, the substantiation for a hereditary origin presently lacks clarity. In certain PVNS patients, a minority of cells within the lining of the impacted joint exhibit an anomaly, leading to the production of a protein referred to as colony-stimulating factor 1 receptor (CSF-1R). Investigations have demonstrated the involvement of this protein in PVNS.

SYMPTOMS

Localized PVNS elicits discomfort and inflammation in the impacted joint. The swelling can attain considerable proportions. Additional indications may encompass joint locking, snagging, and instability. In cases of diffuse PVNS, symptoms usually develop gradually, encompassing joint ache, swelling, and rigidity. Occasionally, patients may exhibit hemarthrosis, wherein blood accumulates within the joint cavity. Remarkably, this can transpire even with minimal or negligible trauma to the afflicted joint. In both variants, the symptoms may exhibit intermittent patterns over time.

INVESTIGATIONS

1. X-rays
2. MRI
3. Joint Aspiration
4. Biopsy

TREATMENT

In the realm of Ayurvedic medicine, various therapeutic approaches are employed to address these conditions, utilizing diverse therapeutic approaches to manage diseases. Medicinal substances, including single herbs and herbal formulas, are employed in clinical practice. These substances are selected based on their actions, as described in Ayurvedic literature. According to Ayurvedic philosophy, metabolic functions are governed by three energy flows (vata, pitta, kapha) and various metabolic powers (agnis). Imbalances in these processes can lead to disease. Chikithsa encompasses measures that normalize the body’s internal environment, promoting health and well-being.

To manage joint diseases, various treatment approaches are employed based on theoretical principles. These approaches involve avoiding factors that contribute to the disease, such as improper diet and behavior, and adapting to seasonal changes. The primary focus is on pacifying the imbalanced dosha, particularly vata, using specific medications that provide pain relief and restore normal bodily functions based on the underlying causes. Additionally, suitable drugs are used to eliminate disease-causing factors known as ama and cleanse the obstructed channels (srotas) through a process called Panchakarma. In cases where the condition is attributed to aging, rejuvenation therapy known as rasayana is recommended, as it is a key aspect of Ayurveda.

HERBAL REMEDIES BY PLANET AYURVEDA FOR PVNS

Planet Ayurveda excels in providing Ayurvedic products and formulations, offering a diverse range of herbal supplements, powders, and remedies beneficial for various health conditions. Nevertheless, it is crucial to exercise caution and seek guidance from a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal remedies. To ensure the most suitable treatment plan tailored to your specific needs, I recommend consulting a licensed Ayurvedic practitioner or a healthcare provider well-versed in Ayurveda. Planet Ayurveda stands as a trusted destination for comprehensive care for any health condition. Here are some herbal supplements that ensures your wellness –

1. BOSWELLIA+CURCUMIN
2. JOINT AID PLUS
3. LAKSHADI GUGGUL
4. KANCHNAAR GUGGUL
5. KAMDUDHA RAS (MOTI YUKT)

PRODUCTS DESCRIPTION

1. BOSWELLIA+CURCUMIN

Planet Ayurveda has created a special formulation called Boswellia+Curcumin to improve overall well-being and neurological health. This powerful combination contains carefully selected extracts of Shallaki (Boswellia serrata) and Curcumin (Curcuma longa). It helps balance the Vata dosha, relieves pain, and supports bone and joint health. This is an excellent choice for those looking to enhance their health and feel their best.

Dosage : 2 capsules twice daily, after meals with plain water.

2. JOINT AID PLUS

Planet Ayurveda presents a patented Ayurvedic medicine comprising unique herbs, including nirgundi (vitex negundo) and shallaki  (Boswellia serrata). The primary ingredient, Shallaki, exhibits ushna guna (warm quality), which assists in soothing the vata dosha. Together, these herbs work harmoniously to promote balance within the body and support the healthy functioning of the nervous system, muscles, and joints.

Dosage : 1 Capsule twice daily, with plain water, after meals.

3. LAKSHADI GUGGU

Planet prepared this classical esteemed formulation composed of remarkable ingredients like laksha (Laccifer lacca), Asthisamharak (Cissus quadrangularis) etc. this helps to maintain healthy bones and muscles, soothes the nervous system, reduces pain and work on vata dosha to achieve the balance in dosha, dhatu, agni. This suggests that guggul may have rejuvenating effects on the body and support a long and healthy life.

Dosage : 2 tablets twice or thrice daily with lukewarm water

4. KANCHNAAR GUGGUL

Planet Ayurveda provides this miraculous herbal formulation that is prepared by  wonderful herbs, some of them are kanchnaar bark (Bauhinia variegata), Amla (Emblica officinalis), haritaki (terminalia chebula) etc. These herbs are helpful in making our digestion powerful and helps us to fight with infection, Amla is also used as an immunomodulator plant. This is prepared  by  following traditional methods to ensure its quality and efficacy.

Dosage : 2 tablets twice or thrice daily with lukewarm water

5. KAMDUDHA RAS (MOTI YUKT)

This is a classical herbal blend consisting of various herbs like mukta bhasma pearl or calcium carbonate, shankh bhasma etc. This formulation is virya vardhak, kapha and pitta nashak, Agnimandya nashak and pushtikar. These bhasmas  balance all the three doshas and sustains the normal functioning of the bodily system. In classical ayurvedic texts moti is rejuvenator, balya (strengthen), Amahara (detoxify).

Dosage : 2 tablets twice or thrice daily with lukewarm water

CONCLUSION

Ayurveda offers various treatment approaches for joint disorders. These include the use of herbal remedies, dietary adjustments, lifestyle modifications, and therapeutic procedures. Ayurvedic treatments aim to balance the doshas, particularly Vata, which is often associated with joint issues. Herbal formulations are carefully selected to address pain, inflammation, and improve joint health. Seeking guidance from a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner is crucial for a personalized treatment plan.