Anatomy & Physiology: Current Research
Open Access

Abstract

Normalization of Varus/Valgus Deformities in Osteoarthritis by External Application of Phytoconstituents: Confirmed With Anatomical Observations and Biochemical Profiles and Radiological Images

Apurba Ganguly

In India, a large number of patients are suffering with genu varum deformities during osteoarthritic (OA) changes in their knee joints. The malaligned knees are either varus (bow-legged) or valgus (knock-kneed) alignment. When the distal part is more medial, it is called varus deformity (≤178º) while the distal part is more lateral, it is called valgus deformity (≥182º). In OA changes of knee-joints, relieving of pain only was achieved temporarily by using medicinal plants based on traditional knowledge. However, correction of malalignment of genu varum by phytotherapeutic protocols has not been attempted as yet. The study was conducted on 196 patients (male: 65 and female: 131) aged ≥ 50 years old for genu varum deformities, normalized by the topical application of phytotherapeutic treatment protocol. To detect the normalization, anatomical measurements and biochemical parameters along with radiological images are being studied before (0 sitting) and after 42 sittings of the treatment. The present results clearly reveal that normalization of genu varum deformities are achieved by topical application of phytoconstituents (aqueous extracts) from acknowledged Indian medicinal plants (Cissus quadrangularis, Heliotropium indicum, Rosmarinus officinalis, Calotropis gigantea) with specialized treatment paradigm, within forty-two sittings. It is a pioneering study for complete recovery of malalignment of genu varum by phytotherapy, which can be an alternative novel method for normalization of genu varum. The present research is corroborated by before and after anatomical observations, biochemical parameters and radiological images.