Medical Glossary

Full-body therapeutic oil massage using warm medicated oils. Improves circulation, relieves muscle tension, nourishes tissues, and calms the nervous system. A foundational therapy in Panchakarma.

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Surgical removal of the adenoids.

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Inflammation of the adenoids (tissue behind the nose), common in children, causing nasal blockage.

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A condition where the inner lining of the womb grows into its muscular wall, causing painful, heavy periods.

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An increase in glandular tissue, for example in the breast.

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The medical term for frozen shoulder -- a condition where the tissue surrounding the shoulder joint (the capsule) becomes thick, tight, and inflamed, causing progressive stiffness and pain. Known as Apabahuka in Ayurveda.

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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.

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Therapeutic heat application using specialised instruments on specific points to relieve chronic pain and stiffness. Particularly effective for frozen shoulder, heel spurs, and trigger points.

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Pain caused by a stimulus that is not normally painful, such as light touch.

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Metabolic toxins that accumulate from incomplete digestion. Considered the root cause of most diseases in Ayurveda. Panchakarma detoxification aims to eliminate Ama from tissues.

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Absence of menstrual periods.

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Any medication or substance used to relieve pain. Analgesics range from common painkillers like paracetamol to stronger prescription drugs. Ayurvedic analgesics use herbal formulations to manage pain naturally.

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Absence of sweating, which can impair the body's ability to cool itself.

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aka AS

A chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease primarily affecting the spine and sacroiliac joints, causing progressive stiffness and fusion. Often begins in late teens or twenties.

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A blood test highly specific for rheumatoid arthritis. Helps confirm diagnosis and predict severity.

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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.

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Inflammation of the appendix, causing abdominal pain that usually needs urgent surgery.

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Inflammation of the wall of an artery, which can reduce blood flow to the tissues it supplies.

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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.

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Any disease or disorder of a joint.

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aka Withania somnifera, Indian Ginseng

Withania somnifera — a premier Rasayana herb used for stress, sleep, adrenal support, joint strength, muscle recovery, and male reproductive health. One of the most studied Ayurvedic adaptogens in modern research.

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Slow, involuntary, writhing movements, usually of the hands and feet.

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Wasting or decrease in muscle size due to disuse, nerve damage, or disease.

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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.

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Death of bone tissue due to interrupted blood supply, most commonly affecting the hip joint. AVN Arogya's flagship speciality.

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aka Osteonecrosis

Death of bone tissue due to loss of blood supply, most commonly affecting the femoral head (hip joint). Classified in Grades 1-4. Ayurvedic treatment is most effective for Grades 1-3.

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Advanced immunosuppressive drugs derived from living cells, used for severe autoimmune conditions when DMARDs fail.

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Inflammation of the eyelid margins, causing red, itchy, crusted eyelids.

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A measure of mineral content in bone tissue. Low bone density indicates osteopenia or osteoporosis.

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Swelling or fluid accumulation within the bone marrow, visible on MRI scans. In avascular necrosis, it is an early sign of bone stress or damage, often appearing before changes are visible on X-rays.

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aka Bacopa monnieri

Bacopa monnieri — a medhya (nootropic) Rasayana herb used for memory, focus, stress, and neurological disorders. Often paired with Shankhapushpi and Mandukaparni.

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Inflammation of the bronchial tubes that carry air to the lungs, causing cough, mucus and breathlessness.

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Inflammation of a bursa — a small fluid-filled cushioning sac near a joint — causing pain and swelling.

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Inflammation of the capsule surrounding a joint; in the shoulder this causes frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis).

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Disease of the heart muscle that affects its ability to pump blood.

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Smooth, rubbery connective tissue covering bone ends in joints. Cartilage loss is the hallmark of osteoarthritis.

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A bacterial infection of the deeper layers of skin, causing redness, warmth, swelling and tenderness.

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Degenerative changes in the cervical (neck) spine — disc degeneration, bone spurs, and joint arthritis — causing neck pain, stiffness, and sometimes arm tingling or weakness from nerve-root compression.

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Inflammation of the cervix (neck of the womb), often causing abnormal discharge.

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Inflammation of the bile ducts, usually from infection or obstruction.

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Inflammation of the gallbladder, usually from gallstones, causing pain in the upper right abdomen.

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Long-term scarring of the liver that impairs its function.

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Inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear layer over the eye, causing redness, watering and irritation.

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Permanent tightening of muscles, tendons, or skin preventing normal joint movement.

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Powerful anti-inflammatory drugs used to control severe inflammation. Effective short-term but cause significant side effects with prolonged use.

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Inflammation of the cartilage joining the ribs to the breastbone, causing chest-wall pain.

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A crackling, grinding, or popping sensation in a joint during movement. Common in osteoarthritis.

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A crescent-shaped line visible on X-ray or MRI in avascular necrosis, indicating that the bone just beneath the joint surface has begun to collapse. It marks the transition to a more advanced stage of the disease.

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C-Reactive Protein -- a blood test that measures a protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation. Elevated CRP levels help doctors assess the severity of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions.

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Computed Tomography -- a scan that combines multiple X-ray images taken from different angles to create cross-sectional pictures of bones and tissues. It provides more detail than a standard X-ray.

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Inflammation of the bladder, usually from infection, causing burning and frequent urination.

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Inflammation of the tear sac, causing pain and swelling near the inner corner of the eye.

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Painful swelling of an entire finger or toe (a 'sausage digit'), seen in some types of arthritis.

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Disease Activity Score using 28 joints -- a clinical measure used to assess rheumatoid arthritis severity by examining tenderness and swelling in 28 joints along with blood markers. Scores below 2.6 indicate remission.

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Gradual deterioration of tissues due to ageing or disease. In musculoskeletal medicine, refers to progressive loss of cartilage, bone density, and disc height.

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Age-related wear and tear on spinal discs that causes them to lose hydration, height, and cushioning ability. This can lead to back pain, stiffness, and nerve irritation as the discs thin over time.

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Damage to or loss of the protective myelin sheath that covers nerve fibres, disrupting nerve signal transmission. It is the hallmark of multiple sclerosis and causes symptoms like numbness, weakness, and vision problems.

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Inflammation of the skin producing redness, itching and sometimes blistering; includes eczema and contact reactions.

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An area of skin supplied by a single spinal nerve root. Doctors use dermatome maps to identify which nerve is affected based on where a patient feels numbness, tingling, or pain.

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An inflammatory condition affecting skin and muscle, causing a rash and muscle weakness.

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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.

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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.

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A common non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for pain relief in arthritis, back pain, and musculoskeletal injuries. It reduces pain and swelling but is not meant for long-term use due to stomach and kidney risks.

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A severe form of disc herniation where the inner disc material breaks through the outer layer and extends beyond the disc space, potentially compressing the spinal cord or nerves. It is more serious than a bulge or protrusion.

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A condition where the soft inner material of a spinal disc pushes through the outer ring, compressing nearby nerves. Also called herniated disc.

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Inflammation of small pouches (diverticula) in the wall of the large intestine.

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Disease-Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs -- a class of medications (such as Methotrexate) that slow the progression of rheumatoid arthritis by suppressing the overactive immune system, rather than just relieving symptoms.

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The movement of bending the foot upward toward the shin. Weakness in dorsiflexion (difficulty lifting the foot) is a clinical sign of nerve damage, particularly L5 nerve root compression in the lower spine.

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The three fundamental bio-energies that govern all physiological and psychological functions: Vata (movement), Pitta (metabolism), and Kapha (structure). Disease arises from their imbalance.

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An imbalance in the community of microbes in the gut or body.

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Abnormal levels of fats (cholesterol or triglycerides) in the blood.

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aka dysmenorrhea

Painful menstrual periods, typically with cramping in the lower abdomen.

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Abnormal accumulation of fluid inside a joint, causing swelling and stiffness.

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aka Patra Pinda Sweda

Kerala therapy using boluses of fresh medicinal leaves fried in medicated oils. Applied warm to the body to relieve joint pain, inflammation, and stiffness in arthritis and spondylosis.

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The use of electrical energy for medical treatment, including techniques like TENS, ultrasound therapy, and interferential therapy (IFT). It helps manage pain, reduce swelling, and promote tissue healing.

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Inflammation of the brain, usually from infection — a serious condition.

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Infection of the inner lining of the heart and its valves — a serious condition.

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A condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing pain, heavy periods, and sometimes fertility problems. It commonly affects the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and pelvic lining.

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Inflammation where tendons or ligaments attach to bone. A hallmark of ankylosing spondylitis and psoriatic arthritis.

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Inflammation of the epididymis, the tube behind the testicle, causing scrotal pain and swelling.

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Inflammation of the epiglottis, which can obstruct breathing — a medical emergency.

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Relating to workplace and posture design that minimises body strain. Part of treatment for back and neck pain.

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A rare condition causing burning pain, redness and warmth, usually in the hands and feet.

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Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate -- a blood test that measures how quickly red blood cells settle to the bottom of a test tube. A high ESR indicates inflammation in the body and is used to monitor conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

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Inflammation of fascia, the connective tissue sheet around muscles; plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain.

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The ball-shaped top of the thighbone (femur) that fits into the hip socket. It is the most common site affected by avascular necrosis, where loss of blood supply causes the bone to weaken and potentially collapse.

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A long-term condition causing widespread body pain, fatigue, poor sleep and tender points across the body.

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A sudden worsening of disease symptoms in chronic conditions, especially autoimmune diseases.

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A sudden worsening or return of disease symptoms after a period of improvement. Autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis commonly have flare-ups triggered by stress, infection, or dietary lapses.

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Inflammation of the hair follicles, producing small red or pus-filled bumps on the skin.

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aka Adhesive Capsulitis

A condition where the shoulder capsule becomes inflamed and contracted, severely restricting movement. Progresses through freezing, frozen, and thawing stages over 1–3 years.

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Inflammation of the stomach lining, causing upper abdominal pain, nausea and indigestion.

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Inflammation of the stomach and intestines, usually from infection, causing diarrhoea and vomiting.

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Delayed emptying of the stomach, causing bloating, nausea and early fullness.

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Inflammation of the gums, causing redness, swelling and bleeding — an early stage of gum disease.

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A sexually transmitted bacterial infection.

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A form of inflammatory arthritis caused by uric-acid crystal deposition in joints, classically presenting as sudden severe pain and redness in the big toe.

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Localised oil pooling therapy for the cervical (neck) region. Warm medicated oil is retained within a boundary made of black gram dough, providing deep relief for cervical spondylosis and neck pain.

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The purified resin of Commiphora mukul — a cornerstone herb in Ayurvedic treatment of arthritis, hyperlipidaemia, obesity, and stubborn inflammatory conditions. Formulations include Yogaraja Guggulu, Kaishora Guggulu, and Triphala Guggulu.

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Surgical removal of haemorrhoids (piles).

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Persistent bad breath.

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A standardised scoring system (0-100) that measures hip joint function based on pain, walking ability, daily activities, and range of motion. Higher scores indicate better function; it is used to track outcomes in AVN treatment.

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Surgical replacement of half of a joint, commonly half of the hip.

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Weakness affecting one side of the body.

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Paralysis of one side of the body, most commonly caused by stroke. Known as Pakshaghata in Ayurveda.

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Inflammation of the liver, which may be caused by viruses, alcohol or other factors and can affect liver function.

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Enlargement of the liver.

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A condition where the soft, gel-like centre of a spinal disc pushes through a tear in the tough outer layer, potentially pressing on nearby nerves. It is the most common cause of sciatica and is also called a slipped or ruptured disc.

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aka Disc Herniation, Slipped Disc, Prolapse

A condition where the soft nucleus of a spinal disc pushes through the outer fibrous ring, often compressing adjacent nerve roots and causing pain, numbness, or weakness.

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A chronic skin condition causing painful lumps in areas such as the armpits and groin.

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A surgical procedure (total hip arthroplasty) where a damaged hip joint is replaced with an artificial joint made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. It is typically recommended for advanced AVN (Grade 4) or severe osteoarthritis.

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A genetic marker strongly associated with ankylosing spondylitis. A positive test supports the diagnosis.

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Accumulation of watery fluid within a joint cavity, causing swelling.

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A DMARD medication commonly used alongside Methotrexate in rheumatoid arthritis treatment. It helps reduce joint pain and swelling by modulating the immune system.

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A higher-than-normal level of calcium in the blood.

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Excessive sweating beyond what is needed to regulate body temperature.

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High levels of fats (lipids) such as cholesterol in the blood.

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An exaggerated inward curve of the lower spine.

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Enlargement of a tissue or organ due to an increase in the size of its cells.

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Raised uric acid levels in the blood, which can lead to gout.

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Abnormally low blood sugar, causing shakiness, sweating, confusion and weakness.

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Reduced ability to sweat.

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Unusually light or short menstrual periods.

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Surgical removal of the uterus (womb).

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Interferential Therapy -- a type of electrotherapy that uses medium-frequency electrical currents to penetrate deeper tissues for pain relief and improved circulation. It is commonly used in physiotherapy for musculoskeletal conditions.

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The process of adjusting the immune system's activity -- calming it when it is overactive (as in autoimmune diseases) or strengthening it when weak. Ayurvedic Panchakarma and specific herbs like Guduchi achieve this naturally.

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Drugs that suppress the immune system's activity for autoimmune conditions. Reduce disease activity but increase infection susceptibility.

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The body's immune response to injury or infection, characterised by redness, swelling, heat, and pain. Chronic inflammation is the driver of autoimmune and degenerative conditions.

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Blood test values (such as ESR and CRP) that indicate the level of inflammation in the body. Doctors track these markers to assess disease activity and treatment response in autoimmune and inflammatory conditions.

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A cushion-like pad of cartilage between each pair of vertebrae in the spine. It acts as a shock absorber and allows spinal flexibility. When damaged, it can bulge or herniate, pressing on nearby nerves.

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Localised oil pooling therapy for the knee joint. Warm medicated oil is retained over the knee to reduce inflammation, nourish cartilage, and relieve osteoarthritis pain.

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A physiotherapy technique where the therapist applies gentle, controlled movements to a stiff joint to restore its normal range of motion. It differs from manipulation in being slower and more graded.

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Surgical replacement of a damaged joint with an artificial implant. AVN Arogya's protocols aim to help patients avoid this.

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The dosha governing structure and lubrication — bones, joints, mucous membranes, immunity, and emotional stability. When imbalanced, causes congestion, obesity, diabetes, and lethargy.

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Localised oil pooling therapy for the lumbar (lower back) region. Warm medicated oil is retained over the lower back to treat disc bulges, sciatica, and chronic lumbar pain.

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An excessive forward curve of the upper spine, causing a rounded or hunched back.

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Inflammation of the inner ear, causing vertigo (a spinning sensation), imbalance and sometimes hearing changes.

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Surgery that removes part of a vertebra (the lamina) to relieve pressure on the spinal nerves.

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Inflammation of the larynx (voice box), causing hoarseness or loss of voice.

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Inflammation of the larynx, windpipe and bronchi (croup), causing a barking cough — mainly in children.

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aka leukorrhea, leucorrhoea

A whitish or yellowish vaginal discharge.

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A tough band of fibrous tissue connecting bones to bones at a joint, providing stability.

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aka Lumbar Disc Prolapse, Slipped Disc

The intervertebral disc in the lower-back region of the spine. Disc prolapse (herniation) here compresses nerve roots and is a leading cause of sciatica and back pain.

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Enlargement of the lymph nodes, often due to infection or inflammation.

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Breast pain.

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Inflammation of breast tissue, often during breastfeeding, causing pain, swelling and redness.

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A structured set of exercises and body positioning techniques developed by physiotherapist Robin McKenzie, specifically designed for spinal conditions. It uses repeated movements and sustained postures to reduce disc-related pain.

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Inflammation of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, usually from infection — a serious condition.

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A C-shaped cartilage pad in the knee acting as a shock absorber. Tears cause pain, swelling, and locking.

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The collection of symptoms experienced during menopause (when menstruation permanently stops), including hot flashes, mood changes, sleep disturbance, and joint stiffness. Ayurvedic management focuses on hormonal balance through natural therapies.

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A widely prescribed DMARD medication for rheumatoid arthritis that works by suppressing the immune system to reduce joint inflammation and prevent joint damage. It requires regular blood monitoring.

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A minimally invasive spinal surgery to remove the portion of a herniated disc that is pressing on a nerve root. It is performed through a small incision and is one of the most common surgeries for sciatica.

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A viral infection ('glandular fever') causing fever, sore throat and swollen lymph nodes.

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Magnetic Resonance Imaging -- a scan that uses strong magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures of bones, joints, and soft tissues without radiation. It is the primary diagnostic tool for conditions like AVN and disc prolapse.

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Compression of the spinal cord itself (not just a nerve root), usually in the cervical spine. It causes progressive symptoms including difficulty with fine hand movements, balance problems, and changes in walking pattern.

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Inflammation of muscle, causing weakness and sometimes pain.

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Traditional Ayurvedic pulse diagnosis. The physician reads the radial pulse to assess the state of the three doshas, identify imbalances, and determine the root cause of disease.

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Nasal administration of medicated oils or herbal preparations. One of the five Panchakarma procedures. Treats sinusitis, migraine, cervical problems, and neurological conditions.

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Kerala therapy using boluses of cooked Navara rice (a medicinal variety) dipped in medicated milk. Applied all over the body to nourish tissues, strengthen muscles, and treat neurological conditions.

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Death of body tissue caused by loss of blood supply, injury or disease.

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Damage to or disease of the kidneys.

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A test that measures how fast electrical signals travel through nerves. It helps diagnose nerve damage, peripheral neuropathy, and the severity of nerve compression in conditions like sciatica and carpal tunnel.

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Gentle stretching movements designed to help a compressed or irritated nerve slide more freely through surrounding tissues. They are commonly prescribed for sciatica and carpal tunnel to reduce nerve tension and improve mobility.

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The point where a nerve branches off from the spinal cord and exits the spine through small openings between vertebrae. Compression of nerve roots by herniated discs or bone spurs causes conditions like sciatica and radiculopathy.

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Sharp, shooting pain felt along the course of a nerve.

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Inflammation of a nerve, causing pain, tingling, numbness or weakness in the area it supplies.

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Pain caused by damage or disease affecting the nerves themselves, rather than by tissue injury. It is often described as burning, shooting, or electric-shock sensations and occurs in conditions like sciatica and peripheral neuropathy.

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Damage or dysfunction of peripheral nerves causing numbness, tingling, burning, or weakness in the hands and feet.

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Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs like ibuprofen and diclofenac. Provide symptomatic relief but do not address the underlying cause.

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A rehabilitation discipline helping patients regain daily activity skills after injury or neurological conditions.

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Inflammation of the oesophagus (food pipe), often from acid reflux, causing heartburn and painful swallowing.

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The essential vital energy in Ayurveda — the end product of properly digested food and tissues. Strong Ojas underpins immunity, resilience, radiance, and mental clarity.

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A fungal infection of the nails, causing thickening and discolouration.

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Surgical removal of one or both ovaries.

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aka OA

A degenerative joint disease characterised by cartilage breakdown leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Most commonly affects the knee, hip, and spine.

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A bony projection (bone spur) forming along joint margins due to osteoarthritis or spinal degeneration.

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A condition where bones become weak and brittle due to loss of bone density, increasing the risk of fractures. It is especially common in post-menopausal women and is related to Asthi Kshaya in Ayurveda.

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Abnormal bone growth in the middle ear that causes gradual hearing loss.

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The five classical detoxification procedures of Ayurveda: Vamana (emesis), Virechana (purgation), Vasti (enema), Nasya (nasal), and Raktamokshana (bloodletting). The cornerstone of Ayurvedic therapeutics.

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Inflammation of the pancreas, causing severe upper abdominal pain, often with nausea and vomiting.

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Paralysis of the lower half of the body, affecting both legs.

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The group of muscles that run alongside the spine, supporting posture and enabling spinal movement. Strengthening these muscles through physiotherapy and yoga is essential for preventing recurrence of back pain and disc problems.

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The Ayurvedic dietary and lifestyle framework prescribing what is beneficial (Pathya) and harmful (Apathya) for each condition and constitution. A critical part of every treatment plan.

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Inflammation of the tissues surrounding a joint, most commonly the shoulder (periarthritis of the shoulder). It causes pain and restricted movement and is closely related to frozen shoulder.

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Inflammation of the pericardium, the sac around the heart, causing chest pain.

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Advanced gum disease that damages the tissue and bone supporting the teeth.

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Inflammation of the pharynx (throat) — the medical term for a sore throat.

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A healthcare discipline that uses physical methods -- exercises, manual therapy, and electrotherapy -- to restore movement and function. At AVN Arogya, physiotherapy is integrated with Ayurvedic treatment for comprehensive rehabilitation.

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A therapy where a cotton pad soaked in warm medicated oil is placed over a specific body part for sustained localised absorption. Shiro Pichu (on the head) is used for neurological and sleep disorders.

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A condition where the piriformis muscle (a small muscle deep in the buttock) spasms or tightens, irritating or compressing the sciatic nerve that runs beneath it. It produces sciatica-like symptoms without a spinal cause.

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The dosha governing transformation and metabolism — digestion, enzymes, hormones, skin health, and intellect. When imbalanced, causes inflammation, acidity, skin conditions, and autoimmune flares.

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Kerala therapy where warm medicated oil is continuously poured over the body in rhythmic streams while being gently massaged. Used for paralysis, muscle wasting, arthritis, and rejuvenation.

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Inflammation of the plantar fascia — the thick band of tissue along the sole of the foot — causing heel pain, especially with the first steps in the morning.

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aka Choorna Pinda Sweda

Herbal powder bolus massage. Dry medicated powders are tied in cloth boluses and applied warm. Effective for obesity, inflammation, and conditions where oil-based therapies are contraindicated.

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An inflammatory condition causing pain and stiffness, especially in the shoulders and hips (polymyalgia rheumatica).

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An inflammatory disease causing weakness of the muscles closest to the trunk.

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The presence of multiple polyps (small growths), often in the bowel.

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An individual's unique constitutional type determined at birth by the predominance of doshas. Understanding Prakriti guides personalised treatment, diet, and lifestyle recommendations.

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The yogic practice of regulated breathing to influence prana (vital energy), autonomic balance, and mental state. Key techniques include Nadi Shodhana (alternate nostril), Bhramari, and Ujjayi.

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A corticosteroid medication that quickly reduces inflammation and suppresses immune activity. It is used short-term for severe flares of arthritis and autoimmune conditions, but long-term use carries significant side effects.

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A medication prescribed for nerve pain (neuropathic pain), commonly used in sciatica and peripheral neuropathy. It works by calming overactive nerve signals that cause pain, tingling, and burning sensations.

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Pain in the rectum or anus.

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The expected course and likely outcome of a disease or condition based on its type, stage, and the patient's response to treatment. A good prognosis means the patient is expected to recover well.

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Inflammation of the prostate gland, causing pelvic pain and urinary symptoms in men.

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An autoimmune arthritis associated with psoriasis, affecting joints, tendons (enthesitis), and sometimes the spine. Can cause nail changes and dactylitis (sausage digits).

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A kidney infection causing fever, back or flank pain and urinary symptoms.

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Rheumatoid Factor — an antibody found in many RA patients. Supports diagnosis but is not definitive alone.

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Pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness caused by compression or irritation of a spinal nerve root. Lumbar radiculopathy (in the lower back) is another term for sciatica; cervical radiculopathy affects the neck and arms.

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aka Rakta Mokshana

Therapeutic bloodletting — one of the five Panchakarma procedures. Removes vitiated blood via leech therapy (Jalaukavacharana), venesection, or controlled surface puncture. Indicated in skin disorders and localised inflammation.

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The full movement potential of a joint, measured in degrees. Restricted range indicates stiffness or structural damage.

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Rejuvenation therapy using specialised herbal formulations to rebuild tissues, boost immunity, slow aging, and enhance vitality. Includes both herbal medicines and specific therapeutic procedures.

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A period during which the signs and symptoms of a disease significantly decrease or disappear. In rheumatoid arthritis, remission (DAS28 below 2.6) means minimal joint inflammation and pain, though the condition may still need ongoing management.

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Damage to the retina at the back of the eye, often a complication of diabetes.

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The process of restoring blood supply to an area of tissue that had lost it. In avascular necrosis (AVN), Ayurvedic treatment aims to promote revascularization of the affected bone, allowing it to heal and rebuild.

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aka RA

A chronic autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the synovial lining of joints, causing inflammation, pain, swelling, and progressive joint destruction. Commonly affects the hands, wrists, and feet.

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Inflammation of the lining of the nose, causing a runny or blocked nose, sneezing and irritation — often due to allergy or infection.

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Combined inflammation of the nose and sinuses, causing nasal blockage, facial pressure and discharge.

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A procedure that interrupts specific nerve roots to relieve pain or muscle spasticity.

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The triangular bone at the base of the spine, formed by five fused vertebrae (S1-S5). It connects the spine to the pelvis and is where the lower nerve roots of the sciatic nerve originate.

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Inflammation of the sacroiliac joints, where the spine meets the pelvis, causing lower back and buttock pain.

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The longest and thickest nerve in the body, running from the lower spine through the buttock and down each leg. Compression or irritation of this nerve causes sciatica -- pain radiating from the back down the leg.

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Pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve — from the lower back, through the buttock, and down the back of the leg. Most commonly caused by lumbar disc herniation or spinal stenosis compressing the nerve root.

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Abnormal hardening or thickening of body tissue. In bone, sclerosis appears as dense white areas on X-rays, indicating the body's response to damage. In multiple sclerosis, it refers to hardened patches on nerve coverings.

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Overproduction of oil (sebum) by the skin, leading to greasy skin and scalp.

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Therapy for children with difficulty processing sensory information. Used in autism, ADHD, and developmental disorders.

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Continuous pouring of warm medicated oil in a steady stream on the forehead (third eye). Deeply calming therapy for insomnia, anxiety, migraine, stress, and neurological conditions.

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Inflammation of the sinuses (the air spaces around the nose), causing facial pain or pressure, congestion and nasal discharge.

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Abnormal increase in muscle tone causing stiffness and resistance to movement. Common after stroke and in cerebral palsy.

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Treatment for speech, language, communication, and swallowing difficulties. Used in stroke rehab and child development.

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A set of exercises designed to strengthen the deep core muscles that support and protect the spine. It improves spinal stability, reduces the risk of disc recurrence, and is a key part of rehabilitation after disc treatment.

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Narrowing of the spinal canal that compresses the spinal cord or nerve roots. Lumbar stenosis typically causes pain and heaviness in the legs when walking (neurogenic claudication).

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Inflammation of the vertebrae (spinal bones), causing back pain and stiffness; seen in conditions such as ankylosing spondylitis.

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A family of inflammatory joint diseases that affect the spine and other joints.

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A condition where one vertebra in the spine slips forward over the one below it, narrowing the nerve exit pathway. It can compress spinal nerves, causing back pain and leg symptoms similar to sciatica.

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Age-related degenerative changes in the spine including disc dehydration, bone spurs (osteophytes), and ligament thickening. Cervical spondylosis affects the neck; lumbar spondylosis affects the lower back.

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The channels or micro-circulatory pathways in Ayurveda through which nutrients, waste, and bio-energies move. Blocked or damaged srotas (srotodushti) is a core mechanism of disease formation.

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Fatty, bulky, foul-smelling stools caused by poor absorption of fat.

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Abnormal narrowing of a passage or canal in the body, such as the spinal canal or a blood vessel.

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Inflammation of the lining of the mouth, causing sores, redness and discomfort.

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A clinical examination where the doctor raises the patient's straightened leg while lying flat. Pain radiating down the leg at a certain angle indicates nerve root compression, helping diagnose sciatica and disc problems.

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Surgical removal of the inflamed synovial lining of a joint.

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Viscous lubricating fluid inside joint capsules that reduces friction, nourishes cartilage, and acts as a shock absorber.

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Inflammation of the synovial membrane lining a joint, causing swelling and pain.

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A continuous stream of cooling medicated buttermilk poured onto the forehead. Excellent for stress, anxiety, insomnia, chronic headaches, and pitta-predominant skin conditions.

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aka tendonitis

Inflammation of a tendon — the cord attaching muscle to bone — causing pain and tenderness on movement.

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Chronic degeneration of a tendon from overuse, with pain but little inflammation.

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A strong cord of fibrous tissue connecting muscle to bone. Tendinitis (inflammation) causes pain with movement.

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aka Lateral Epicondylitis

Pain on the outer side of the elbow caused by overuse of the forearm extensor tendons. Common in repetitive-grip activities, not just tennis.

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Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation -- a therapy that sends mild electrical pulses through the skin to relieve pain. Small electrode pads are placed on the affected area to block pain signals and stimulate natural pain relief.

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A procedure using controlled heat to treat tissue, such as bronchial thermoplasty for asthma.

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A low platelet count, increasing the tendency to bleed or bruise.

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Inflammation of a vein together with a blood clot, usually in the legs.

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Formation of a blood clot inside a blood vessel, obstructing blood flow.

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Inflammation of the thyroid gland, which can disturb thyroid hormone levels.

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Surgical removal of the tonsils.

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Inflammation of the tonsils at the back of the throat, causing sore throat, painful swallowing and fever.

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A mechanical stretching force applied to the spine to decompress discs and relieve nerve pressure.

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A bacterial infection, usually of the lungs, spread through the air; it can also affect bones and joints (spinal TB).

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aka Udwartana

A vigorous upward massage with dry or semi-dry herbal powders. Used for reducing kapha, stimulating circulation, breaking down cellulite, and toning the skin.

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Inflammation of the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body, causing burning on urination.

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An imbalance of the natural bacteria in the vagina, causing discharge and odour (bacterial vaginosis).

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Visual Analog Scale -- a simple measurement tool where patients rate their pain on a scale of 0 (no pain) to 10 (worst possible pain). It is used to track treatment progress objectively.

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Visual Analogue Scale for pain measurement (0-10). Patient marks their pain level on a line. 0 = no pain, 10 = worst imaginable pain. Standard metric for tracking treatment progress.

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Inflammation of blood vessels, which can restrict blood flow and damage organs.

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Medicated enema therapy — the most important of the five Panchakarma procedures for Vata disorders. Uses herbal decoctions and oils to treat disc disorders, arthritis, neurological conditions, and chronic pain.

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The dosha governing all movement — nerve impulses, breathing, circulation, elimination, and joint mobility. When imbalanced, causes pain, stiffness, anxiety, insomnia, and neurological disorders.

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One of the 33 individual bones forming the spinal column, stacked with intervertebral discs between them.

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A sensation of spinning or dizziness, often from inner ear problems, cervical spondylosis, or neurological conditions.

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Inflammation of the seminal vesicles in men, causing pelvic pain.

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The current imbalance or pathological state of the doshas, contrasted with Prakriti (innate constitution). Assessing vikriti guides the natural state of a person in Ayurveda.

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Therapeutic purgation — one of the five Panchakarma procedures. Eliminates excess Pitta and toxins from the liver and GI tract. Used for skin diseases, autoimmune conditions, and metabolic disorders.

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A quick imaging test that uses a small amount of radiation to produce pictures of bones and joints. It shows fractures, bone spurs, joint space narrowing, and advanced degenerative changes.

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