"Targeted Ayurvedic Care for Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis — Safe Immuno-Modulation and Gentle Detoxification to Arrest Joint Inflammation and Support Healthy Growth Naturally”
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is the commonest arthritis in children under sixteen, causing joint swelling, morning stiffness lasting over half an hour, limping, and reluctance to use a limb. At AVN Arogya children are treated through an inpatient program along with continuation of Ayurvedic medicines, external applications and diet & lifestyle modifications helping in achieving sustained remission.
Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) — Overview & Ayurvedic Understanding
Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) is the most common form of arthritis in children under 16, causing persistent joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. Conventional treatment relies on DMARDs, biologics, and steroids which carry significant side effects in growing children. Ayurvedic treatment offers a gentler immunomodulatory approach — reducing inflammation, protecting joints, and supporting normal growth often without the need for DMARDs and regular use of Painkillers.
Symptoms of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA)
Joint swelling and stiffness (especially morning stiffness lasting >30 minutes), limping or reluctance to use a limb, joint warmth and tenderness, eye inflammation (uveitis — requires regular screening), fatigue, fever (in systemic JIA), growth disturbance, reduced physical activity compared to peers.
Causes & Risk Factors for Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA)
Autoimmune — the immune system attacks healthy joint tissue. Exact trigger unknown. Involves genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and immune dysregulation. Not caused by injury, diet, or anything the parent did. Several subtypes: oligoarticular (few joints), polyarticular (many joints), and systemic (joints + fever + rash).
Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) — Surgery vs Non-Surgical Ayurvedic Treatment
Why Non-Surgical Ayurvedic Treatment Works for Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA)
When Surgery Is the Right Path
Joint surgery is rarely needed in JIA. May be required for severe joint damage or contractures that limit function despite medical management. Growth monitoring is essential.
We maintain transparent referral relationships with leading orthopaedic and specialist surgeons.
Key Outcomes
Reduced joint swelling and morning stiffness within 2-3 weeks
Improved mobility and participation in school and play
Reduction or avoidance of DMARD doses over 6-12 months, based on their response and remission status is achieved in many cases.
Tracked via joint counts, ESR, CRP and growth monitoring
Our Treatment Approach for Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA)
At AVN Arogya, Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) is approached as a systemic immune imbalance primarily involving an accumulation of Ama (metabolic endotoxins) interacting with highly sensitive Vata and Pitta doshas in a growing musculoskeletal framework.
Because JIA affects children during critical growth phases, there is no pre-packaged or static protocol.
Senior physicians carefully design an individualised program mapped directly to the child's age, the specific type of JIA (oligoarticular, polyarticular, or systemic), active inflammation levels, and constitutional growth patterns (Prakriti). Phase 1: Gentle Anti-Inflammatory Cooling & Metabolic Correction (Ama Pachana & Pitta Samana) Before introducing intensive cleansing or heavy therapeutic oil applications, the acute inflammatory flare, joint heat, and swelling must be gently settled without overloading the child's delicate metabolic system. • Target: Restoring the metabolic fire (Agni), safely digesting tissue-level toxins (Ama), and reducing joint swelling and systemic heat. • Therapies: Mild, non-heating, or dry applications such as gentle Podikkizhi (medicated herbal powder bolus application) over affected joints, or cooling herbal liquid washings (Dhara) to relieve acute pain, stiffness, and joint warmth without causing physical distress. • Oral Support: Administration of highly safe, easily digestible, and child-appropriate classical and proprietary formulations to systematically clear toxins and calm joint inflammation from within. Phase 2: Mild Immuno-Modulation & Deep Tissue Soothing (Shodhanam & Samana) Once the acute pain, heat, and morning stiffness are under control, the treatment shifts toward stabilizing the overactive immune response and protecting the joint membranes. • Panchakarma Cleanse: Extremely mild, tailored cleansing procedures such as gentle Virechana (controlled medicated purgation) or specific Matra Vasti (mild medicated enemas using light, highly nurturing oils) are deployed to pacify the core Vata-Pitta imbalance and clear systemic immune complexes. • Targeted Joint Care: Soothing specialized therapies like Nhavarakkizhi (massage with rice cooked in medicated milk) are introduced to gently nourish the joint tissues, strengthen surrounding muscles, and encourage the healing of inflamed synovial membranes. Physiotherapy and play-based exercises for joint mobility. Phase 3: Growth Support, Joint Mobilization & Remission Maintenance (Rasayana) The final phase focuses on ensuring that the joints move freely, preventing developmental delays or growth contractures, and sustaining permanent disease remission. • Nourishment & Growth Protection: The introduction of child-safe Rasayana (rejuvenative) oral therapies that nurture bone tissue (Asti Dhatu) and support optimal physical development, protecting growing joints from progressive damage. • Home-Care Transition: A transition to a customized, child-friendly home care program comprising an easy-to-follow anti-inflammatory diet chart, playful joint protection exercises, and long-term immuno-modulatory oral medicines to maintain systemic moisture and keep the disease in long-term remission. Discharge protocol with oral medicines (6-12 months), exercise programme, school activity guidelines. .
Symptoms Associated With Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA)
These symptoms commonly occur with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA). Having one does not mean you have the condition — they are starting points for a conversation with a physician, not a diagnosis.
Ayurvedic Therapies for Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA)
These are examples of classical Ayurvedic therapies that may be selected for your programme depending on your condition, stage, and constitutional type. Your treating physician decides which therapies are appropriate — no two programmes are the same.
Upanaham
AdjunctiveA deeply penetrative hot herbal poultice application bound overnight to melt away chronic joint stiffness and deep pain.
Learn about this therapy →
Lepanam
AdjunctiveAn application of a thick, targeted herbal paste over specific body areas to quickly draw out inflammation, pain, or skin impurities.
Learn about this therapy →
Elakizhi
Kerala TherapyTherapeutic massage with boluses of fresh medicinal leaves warmed in medicated oil — excellent for inflammatory-painful joint conditions.
Learn about this therapy →
Ajavit kizhi
Kerala TherapyA specialized, traditional dry bolus therapy designed to relieve severe sciatic pain and deep nerve compression.
Learn about this therapy →
Kadidhara
Kerala TherapyA continuous, rhythmic pouring of warm, fermented herbal grain liquid to combat deep-seated inflammation, fluid retention, and stiffness.
Learn about this therapy →
Podi kizhi
Kerala TherapyA vigorous, deeply warming massage using heated herbal powder boluses to alleviate joint pain, reduce inflammation, and ease muscle stiffness.
Learn about this therapy →
Virechanam
PanchakarmaControlled therapeutic purgation for Pitta-dominant conditions — a cornerstone of Ayurvedic liver, skin, and autoimmune care.
Learn about this therapy →
Vasti
PanchakarmaMedicated enema — the most versatile of the five Panchakarma procedures and the primary treatment for Vata-dominant disorders.
Learn about this therapy →
Kashaya vasti
PanchakarmaA purifying, custom-blended herbal decoction enema used to deeply cleanse the colon, remove toxic blockages, and relieve chronic joint pain.
Learn about this therapy →
Your physician may also include Sneha vasti, Abhyangam or Swedanam, depending on your presentation.
Expected Results for Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) Treatment
Reduced joint swelling and morning stiffness within 2-3 weeks of inpatient treatment and over a few months of outpatient treatment. Improved mobility and participation in daily activities.
Many children achieve reduced DMARD doses or are able to avoid them over 6-12 months.
JIA requires long-term management, continuous follow up treatment and annual treatment courses are recommended to prevent long term complications.
Our Specialists for Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA)
These physicians have specialist expertise in Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) and typically lead the clinical decisions for complex cases. Any of them can assess and plan your programme — book with whoever's availability works for you.
Dr.Biju Madhavan (BAMS, MD (Ayurveda))
Chief Consultant Physician
Expertise: Musculoskeletal disorders, Spine & Joint rehabilitation
Primary Clinic: Madurai — AVN Arogya Ayurvedic Hospital - Madurai
Languages: English, Tamil, Hindi, Malayalam
Dr. Sridevi Rajeev Warrier (BAMS, (Gold Medalist) )
Medical Director & Senior Consultant Physician
Expertise: Panchakarma, Autoimmune conditions, Women's Health
Primary Clinic: Madurai — AVN Arogya Ayurvedic Hospital - Madurai
Languages: English, Tamil, Hindi, Malayalam
Dr. Ramesh R. Varier (BAMS, (Gold Medalist) & Guru under RAV, Clinical Hypnotherapist)
Senior Consultant Physician & Managing Director
Expertise: AVN, MS, Chronic musculoskeletal diseases, Fertility
Primary Clinic: Madurai — AVN Arogya Ayurvedic Hospital - Madurai
Languages: English, Tamil, Malayalam, Hindi
Dr. Sreejith (BAMS)
Senior Physician
Expertise: General Ayurvedic medicine, Metabolic disorders
Primary Clinic: Madurai — AVN Arogya Ayurvedic Hospital - Madurai
Languages: English, Tamil, Malayalam, Hindi
Physicians Available for Consultation
For first consultations, follow-ups, and routine care, any of these physicians from our broader clinical team is available. Complex cases are always referred to the specialists above.
Dr. Sreeja Biju (BAMS, )
Senior Physician
Expertise: Panchakarma, Chronic pain management
Primary Clinic: Madurai — AVN Arogya Ayurvedic Hospital - Madurai
Languages: English, Tamil, Malayalam
Dr. Chippi (BAMS.,)
Senior - Physician
Primary Clinic: Madurai — AVN Arogya Ayurvedic Hospital - Madurai
Languages: English, Malayalam, Hindi, Tamil
Dr. Arya (BAMS)
Physician
Primary Clinic: Madurai — AVN Arogya Ayurvedic Hospital - Madurai
Languages: English, Tamil, Malayalam
Dr. Unnikrishnan (BAMS, MD (Ayurveda))
Physician
Primary Clinic: Madurai — AVN Arogya Ayurvedic Hospital - Madurai
Languages: English, Tamil, Malayalam, Hindi, Kannada
Dr. Keerthy S. Namboodiri (BAMS, MD (Ayurveda - Paediatrics))
Senior Physician
Expertise: Musculoskeletal disorders, Paediatric cases
Primary Clinic: Madurai — AVN Arogya Ayurvedic Hospital - Madurai
Languages: English, Tamil, Hindi, Malayalam, Kannada
Dr. Keerthika (BAMS)
Physician
Primary Clinic: Madurai — AVN Arogya Ayurvedic Hospital - Madurai
Languages: Tamil, Malayalam, English
Dr. Sheha (BAMS)
Physician
Primary Clinic: Madurai — AVN Arogya Ayurvedic Hospital - Madurai
Languages: Tamil, English, Malayalam, Hindi, Kannada
Dr. Abirami (BAMS)
Physician
Primary Clinic: Madurai — AVN Arogya Ayurvedic Hospital - Madurai
Languages: English, Tamil, Malayalam
Not sure which physician to book with? Send us your reports and we'll match you with the best fit.
WhatsApp for Help Choosing →Mild and less active rheumatic conditions can often be managed with medicines and periodic review after consultation — sometimes alongside your existing treatment. Many cases, and more active or advanced disease, respond best to visiting therapy or an inpatient programme, as your physician advises.
Why Choose AVN Arogya for Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA)?
Child-Centric Autoimmune Expertise: Treating arthritis in children requires extreme clinical precision—balancing the need to clear deep-seated toxins with the absolute necessity of maintaining a gentle, non-traumatizing experience for a growing child.
AVN’s physicians specialize in adjusting traditional protocols for pediatric safety and comfort.
Pioneering, Safe Anti-Inflammatory Formulations: AVN utilizes proprietary, proprietary immuno-modulating and anti-inflammatory formulations alongside classical remedies.
These work systematically to regulate the immune system and relieve joint pain without causing the gastric erosion, growth suppression, or organ toxicity associated with modern immunosuppressive drugs.
Integrated Pediatric Physiotherapy: Because JIA carries a severe risk of causing joint contractures, muscle wasting, and growth discrepancies, AVN integrates targeted physical rehabilitation directly into the daily medical timeline.
Pediatric-trained physical therapists design fun, low-impact, specialized mobilization exercises to preserve a full range of motion.
Gentle Yoga & Emotional Regulation: Living with chronic pain causes significant stress for children, which can frequently trigger autoimmune flares.
Under expert guidance, children are taught highly gentle stretches and calming breathing techniques (Pranayama) to soothe the nervous system and naturally lower systemic cortisol levels.
Minimizing Long-Term Drug Dependency: AVN’s integrated model focuses on achieving natural, long-term disease remission.
This significantly reduces a child's lifelong dependency on heavy painkillers, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, or biological therapies that carry severe long-term side effects.
And why AVN Arogya at all
- Trust built on four generations and over 96 years of Ayurveda-based healing, evidenced by the patients we have treated and the testimonials they have given.
- Tamil Nadu's first Ayurvedic hospital to be NABH accredited — a testimony to our commitment to the quality of patient care.
- Doctors who give you a patient hearing, assess in detail using both modern diagnostics and holistic Ayurvedic methods, and make honest recommendations with options to suit your condition.
- Treatment protocols personalised to your situation, including the mode of treatment that fits it — outpatient, day care or inpatient.
- A holistic approach spanning diet, lifestyle, psychological support, pure Ayurvedic medicines and external applications, Panchakarma, Upakarma and Kerala speciality therapies, physiotherapy, rehabilitation and yoga where applicable.
- Safe and effective Ayurvedic medicines manufactured in-house and tested to international standards for heavy metals.
- Cashless inpatient treatment through tie-ups with 35 insurance companies and TPAs.
- Interest-free EMI on inpatient treatment, over 3 to 18 months, through our financing partners.
- Corporate tie-ups for screening camps, teleconsultations and inpatient treatment funded by corporate health programmes or insurance.
NABH accreditation covers the Vilachery hospital in Madurai. Cashless cover applies to inpatient treatment at the Vilachery hospital.
Conditions Related to Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) in Rheumatology
Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) Patient Success Stories
Real patients who recovered from Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) at AVN Arogya.
Brindha Balachandarfrom Chennai (currently living in Germany)
Mrs. Brindha Balachandar, 33, was born and raised in Chennai and now lives in Germany with her husband and son. She came to AVN Arogya for back pain associated with sero-negative arthritis, on the strong recommendation of her father, who had been treated there several times for his own back problem. She was treated over a 21-day inpatient stay under Dr. Biju Madhavan, a back specialist. She praised the doctors and staff for attentive, responsive care - visiting daily, gathering feedback after each therapy and adjusting treatment accordingly - and described her overall experience at the Madurai hospital as top-notch.
Sandiya Devifrom Kodaikanal
Ms. Sandiya Devi, from Kodaikanal, had seronegative spondyloarthropathy; her back pain worsened until, for several days, she couldn't get up and walk in the mornings and could only lie down. She found AVN Arogya through good online reviews and came for treatment. She reports that after treatment she can now sit (which she couldn't before), walk a little and stand - a clear step forward. (Tamil testimonial.)
Shanthifrom Madurai
Mrs. Shanthi, from Madurai, battled persistent knee and leg pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis despite earlier treatments. At AVN Arogya she received Ayurvedic care (Panchakarma and herbal medicines). According to the video her pain eased. (Based on the video description.)
Manikandanfrom Hosur
Suffering from rheumatoid arthritis for over 7 years, Mr. Manikandan from Hosur tried many treatments—yet lasting relief remained out of reach. The video reports treatment at AVN Arogya (Madurai) with Ayurvedic care (Panchakarma and herbal medicines) and a positive recovery. (Based on the video description.)
Sunilfrom Florida
Mr. Sunil Kumar Raina, from Florida, had been battling Ankylosing Spondylitis, a chronic inflammatory condition causing severe back pain and stiffness. The video reports treatment at AVN Arogya (Madurai) with Ayurvedic care (Panchakarma and herbal medicines) and a positive recovery. (Based on the video description.)
Muthumanifrom Madurai
After struggling with rheumatoid arthritis pain for over 5 years, Mrs. Muthumani from Madurai found true relief at AVN Arogya Ayurvedic Hospital. The video reports treatment at AVN Arogya (Madurai) with Ayurvedic care (Panchakarma and herbal medicines) and a positive recovery. (Based on the video description.)
Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) — Frequently Asked Questions
Some autoimmune conditions, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and certain forms of vasculitis, can affect multiple organs over time. However, early diagnosis, regular monitoring, and appropriate treatment can significantly reduce the risk of disease progression and new organ involvement. At AVN Arogya, our integrated Ayurvedic treatment is designed to complement your rheumatologist's care by helping manage inflammation, improve overall well-being, and reduce the frequency of flare-ups. We do not replace conventional treatment, and any prescribed immunosuppressants or other medications should be continued as advised by your specialist. Regular follow-up with your treating doctors, along with recommended blood tests and organ function assessments, is essential for long-term disease control. For a personalised consultation, please contact our Customer Care Team at +91 95002 92220.
Immunosuppressant medicines can have side effects, including an increased risk of infections and the need for regular monitoring. However, uncontrolled autoimmune disease can lead to permanent joint damage, organ involvement, and disability, making appropriate treatment essential. The goal is to achieve good disease control with the lowest effective medication dose, always under the supervision of your rheumatologist. At AVN Arogya, our integrated Ayurvedic treatment is designed to complement conventional care by helping manage symptoms, reduce inflammation, and improve overall quality of life. In some cases, medication adjustments may be possible, but only under the guidance of your treating specialist. Never stop or reduce your immunosuppressant medicines without consulting your rheumatologist. For a personalised consultation, please contact our Customer Care Team at +91 95002 92220.
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune condition that usually requires long-term management. However, this does not necessarily mean you will need the same medicines or the same doses throughout your life. With good disease control, some patients experience fewer flare-ups and may be able to reduce or simplify their medication regimen under the guidance of their rheumatologist. At AVN Arogya, our integrated Ayurvedic treatment aims to support disease management by reducing inflammation, improving joint function, and enhancing quality of life alongside conventional treatment. Do not stop or reduce your RA medications without consulting your rheumatologist. Any medication changes should always be made under medical supervision. For a personalised treatment plan, please contact our Customer Care Team at +91 95002 92220.
A balanced, anti-inflammatory diet can support the management of autoimmune conditions alongside your prescribed treatment. At AVN Arogya, dietary recommendations are personalised based on your condition and Ayurvedic assessment. We generally recommend including fresh vegetables, leafy greens, whole grains, turmeric, ginger, flaxseeds, walnuts, healthy fats, and easily digestible proteins. Warm, freshly prepared meals and adequate hydration are also encouraged. Some people may find that foods such as dairy, gluten, refined sugar, processed foods, or nightshade vegetables (tomato, potato, brinjal, and capsicum) trigger their symptoms. Since triggers vary from person to person, our physicians may recommend a supervised elimination and reintroduction diet to identify foods that affect you. For personalised dietary guidance, please schedule a telemedicine consultation with one of our doctors. To book an appointment, contact our Customer Care Team at +91 95002 92220.
Rheumatoid arthritis can cause permanent joint damage and deformity if inflammation remains uncontrolled for a prolonged period. However, with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, the risk of joint deformity can be significantly reduced. At AVN Arogya, treatment focuses on controlling inflammation, relieving pain, preserving joint function, and slowing disease progression through an integrated approach that complements your rheumatologist's treatment. Early intervention offers the best chance of protecting your joints and maintaining mobility. If joint deformity has already developed, treatment can still help reduce pain, improve function, and prevent further damage through personalised therapies, rehabilitation, and lifestyle guidance. For a personalised assessment and treatment plan, please contact our Customer Care Team at +91 95002 92220.
Autoimmune conditions require long-term management, and the duration of treatment varies depending on the condition, its severity, and your response to therapy. At AVN Arogya, patients who require inpatient treatment typically undergo an intensive programme of 14–21 days, followed by 6–12 months or longer of personalised Ayurvedic medicines, dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, and regular follow-up consultations. Many patients begin to notice improvements in symptoms such as pain, stiffness, sleep, and energy levels within the first few months. Since autoimmune diseases are chronic, ongoing care is important to help reduce flare-ups, maintain joint and organ function, and improve quality of life. For a personalised treatment plan and expected timeline, please schedule a telemedicine consultation with one of our doctors by contacting our Customer Care Team at +91 95002 92220.
Yes. Most people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can continue working, especially when the condition is well managed. If you have a desk job, maintaining an ergonomic workstation, taking regular breaks, and avoiding prolonged strain on your joints can help. Planning demanding tasks later in the day may also be beneficial, as morning stiffness is common. If your work involves heavy physical activity, you may need temporary job modifications during flare-ups or while undergoing treatment. At AVN Arogya, our treatment aims to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, preserve joint function, and minimise flare-ups so that you can maintain your quality of life and continue your daily activities. During inpatient treatment, patients whose jobs permit work from home can often continue working from the hospital, subject to their medical condition. For a personalised treatment plan, please contact our Customer Care Team at +91 95002 92220.
Yes, inpatient (IP) Ayurvedic treatment for rheumatoid arthritis is covered by health insurance at AVN Arogya. Key details: - ICD codes: M05 (Seropositive RA) / M06 (Other RA) - NABH accredited: AVN Arogya holds NABH accreditation, which is accepted by all major insurers. - Programme duration: RA IP programmes are typically 14-21 days. - Cashless facility: Available for empanelled insurance companies. Pre-authorisation requirements: Your insurer may require recent RA blood panels for pre-authorisation. Keep these ready: - RF (Rheumatoid Factor) - Anti-CCP antibodies - ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate) - CRP (C-Reactive Protein) Our insurance desk handles the pre-authorisation process and can guide you through the documentation. Contact us with your policy details before admission so we can verify coverage and arrange cashless processing. If your policy does not support cashless, we provide all necessary documentation for reimbursement claims.
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Terms referenced on this page
View Full Glossary →Agni
The digestive and metabolic fire in Ayurveda. Strong, balanced Agni is considered the root of health; weakened or erratic Agni produces Ama (toxins) and disease.
Ama
Metabolic toxins that accumulate from incomplete digestion. Considered the root cause of most diseases in Ayurveda. Panchakarma detoxification aims to eliminate Ama from tissues.
Anti-inflammatory
Any substance that reduces inflammation -- the body's response characterised by redness, swelling, heat, and pain. Both conventional drugs (like NSAIDs) and Ayurvedic formulations (like Dhanyamla) have anti-inflammatory properties.
Arthritis
A broad term for joint inflammation characterised by pain, swelling, and reduced range of motion. Includes osteoarthritis (wear-and-tear), rheumatoid arthritis (autoimmune), gout, and over 100 other sub-types.
Autoimmune
A condition where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy tissues. Rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and psoriasis are autoimmune conditions where the immune system causes inflammation and tissue damage.
Corticosteroids
Powerful anti-inflammatory drugs used to control severe inflammation. Effective short-term but cause significant side effects with prolonged use.
Dhara
A family of Ayurvedic therapies involving continuous pouring of a medicated liquid (oil, milk, buttermilk, or decoction) over the body or specific region. Includes Shirodhara, Takradhara, and Kashaya Dhara.
Dhatu
The seven bodily tissues in Ayurveda — Rasa (plasma), Rakta (blood), Mamsa (muscle), Meda (fat), Asthi (bone), Majja (marrow/nervous tissue), and Shukra (reproductive tissue). Health reflects the integrity of the dhatus.
Flare
A sudden worsening of disease symptoms in chronic conditions, especially autoimmune diseases.
Inflammation
The body's immune response to injury or infection, characterised by redness, swelling, heat, and pain. Chronic inflammation plays a central part in many autoimmune and degenerative conditions.