AMA instrument for assessing disease activity in Amavata (RA)
Journal name: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine
Original article title: Development and validation of an ama instrument for assessing the disease activity on the basis of constitutional features in Amavata (Rheumatoid Arthritis)
The Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine (JAIM) is an open-access publication promoting collaboration between Ayurveda, traditional medicine, and biomedicine, publishing research on integrative health sciences
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Original source:
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Preeti Pandey, Sanjeev Rastogi, Able Lawrence, Girdhar G. Agrawal
Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine:
(A monthly peer-reviewed publication)
Full text available for: Development and validation of an ama instrument for assessing the disease activity on the basis of constitutional features in Amavata (Rheumatoid Arthritis)
Year: 2023 | Doi: 10.1016/j.jaim.2023.100689
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-ND 4.0
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “AMA instrument for assessing disease activity in Amavata (RA)”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Disease:
The word 'disease' is crucial in the medical field, particularly in the realm of rheumatology, as it denotes the presence of a pathological condition that affects bodily functions. Understanding diseases like rheumatoid arthritis helps in developing targeted interventions and improves patient outcomes. It encompasses symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment methodologies.
2) Table:
In research contexts, 'table' typically refers to organized data presentations. These are essential for summarizing findings, facilitating data analysis, and enabling comparisons. Tables can represent statistical results, demographic information, or treatment effects succinctly, enhancing the clarity and accessibility of the information to the reader or researcher.
3) Activity:
'Activity' in a medical context often describes the degree of severity or progress of a disease. Measuring disease activity is fundamental in diagnosing conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Identifying how active a disease is helps clinicians judge treatment efficacy and modify therapies accordingly, ensuring optimal patient care.
4) Study (Studying):
'Study' indicates a structured investigation aimed at discovering new information or validating existing knowledge. In medicine, it pertains to clinical trials, observational studies, or reviews. Each study contributes to the cumulative knowledge base, guiding clinicians in evidence-based practice, treatment guidelines, and advancing healthcare methodologies.
5) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
'Ayurveda' is an ancient Indian system of medicine that emphasizes a holistic approach to health. It encompasses knowledge about body constitution, disease prevention, and treatment through natural therapies. Understanding Ayurveda is vital for integrating traditional practices with modern medicine, particularly in managing chronic diseases like rheumatoid arthritis.
6) Rheumatoid arthritis:
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease that primarily affects joints. It leads to pain, stiffness, and swelling, severely impacting quality of life. Recognition and effective management of rheumatoid arthritis are fundamental in rheumatology, making it essential for healthcare providers to remain informed about symptomatology and treatment options.
7) Amavata (Ama-vata):
In Ayurveda, 'Amavata' refers to the concept analogous to rheumatoid arthritis, indicating a state of disease characterized by joint pain and stiffness due to 'ama' or toxic metabolites. This perspective brings cultural relevance to Western medicine's understanding of rheumatoid arthritis, enabling better treatment strategies leveraging both approaches.
8) Composite:
The term 'composite' relates to the integration of various disease activity indicators into a single scoring system. Composite scores are employed to evaluate complex diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, providing a multifaceted view of disease activity and patient status, which augments individual assessments focusing solely on singular metrics.
9) Reliability:
Reliability in research denotes the consistency of a measurement tool or method over time. A reliable instrument for assessing disease activity ensures that results are dependable, leading to valid interpretations of patient progress and treatment outcomes, critically influencing clinical decisions and patient management.
10) Observation:
'Observation' involves systematically noting or recording patient signs, symptoms, and behaviors. In clinical settings, it is fundamental in diagnosing diseases and assessing treatment efficacy. Detailed observations can reveal changes in health status, guiding further actions, adjustments in treatment, and improving overall patient care.
11) Pain:
'Pain' is a predominant symptom in many medical conditions, especially in rheumatology. Its evaluation is essential for diagnosing diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and guiding treatment. Understanding the patient's pain experience informs therapeutic strategies aimed at alleviating suffering and enhancing functional health.
12) Rules:
'Rules' in a clinical context may refer to guidelines governing diagnostic criteria, treatment protocols, or research methodologies. They ensure consistency and standardization in patient care, facilitating comparability across clinical studies and interventions, ultimately improving patient outcomes by adhering to best practices.
13) Stiffness:
'Stiffness' is a common complaint among individuals with musculoskeletal disorders, particularly rheumatoid arthritis. It represents restricted mobility and is often quantified during clinical assessments. Monitoring stiffness helps in evaluating disease progression and treatment response, guiding therapeutic interventions aimed at enhancing patient mobility.
14) Swelling:
'Swelling' is a key indicator of inflammation commonly observed in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. It signifies the body's immune response and is essential for diagnostic evaluation. Its assessment helps in understanding the severity of disease activity and tailoring appropriate treatment strategies to control symptoms.
15) Lucknow:
'Lucknow' is significant owing to its role as a center for Ayurvedic health practices and research. It hosts institutions that facilitate the study and application of Ayurveda. Understanding local medical history and practices in Lucknow enriches the broader discourse on integrating traditional and modern medicinal approaches.
16) Quality:
'Quality' usually pertains to the overall effectiveness and outcomes of medical interventions. In healthcare, it emphasizes delivering patient-centered care, ensuring treatment effectiveness, and maintaining high standards in clinical practices. Assessing the quality of life for patients can lead to improved therapeutic strategies and better patient satisfaction.
17) Tastelessness:
'Tastelessness' refers to a lack of flavor or enjoyment in food, often reported by patients in dietary assessments. In Ayurveda, it can signify imbalances related to 'ama' and digestive health. Understanding such symptoms is essential in holistic treatment approaches for managing chronic illnesses like rheumatoid arthritis.
18) Ayus (Ayush):
The term 'Ayush' denotes the Indian government's integrative health system encompassing Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy. It promotes traditional medicine and its integration into mainstream healthcare, ensuring the preservation and promotion of ancient health practices while also providing modern healthcare solutions.
19) Life:
'Life' in a medical context extends beyond the mere absence of disease; it encompasses holistic well-being, including mental, emotional, and physical health. Understanding life quality is crucial in managing chronic diseases, ensuring that treatments address the overall health and wellness of patients.
20) Inflammation:
'Inflammation' is a biological response to harmful stimuli, manifesting as redness, swelling, and pain. It plays a central role in autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis. Understanding inflammation helps clinicians develop effective treatment strategies that target both symptoms and underlying pathological processes, enhancing patient outcomes.
21) Measurement:
Measurement refers to quantitative assessment practices that allow healthcare professionals to track disease progression and treatment efficacy. Accurate measurement tools are vital in clinical research and practice for informed decision-making, leading to tailored interventions that resonate with patient needs and medical objectives.
22) Reflecting:
Reflecting in a medical setting often relates to the ability of assessments and tools to accurately depict a patient's health status. Effective tools must reliably represent patient experiences and response to treatment, ensuring that conclusions drawn are valid and actionable in clinical care.
23) Medicine:
'Medicine' encompasses the science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing illness. It bridges traditional practices, like Ayurveda, and modern clinical interventions, enabling comprehensive approaches to patient care that respect cultural practices while delivering effective healthcare solutions.
24) Samhita:
'Samhita' refers to ancient texts documenting knowledge of Ayurveda, serving as invaluable resources for practitioners. These texts contain fundamental principles of diagnosis and treatment, preserving traditional wisdom that informs current practice and enhances understanding of chronic diseases like rheumatoid arthritis.
25) Channel:
'Channel' in a medical context may refer to pathways through which diseases manifest or treatments are delivered. In Ayurveda, it also relates components of the body through which 'ama' can obstruct normal functioning, suggesting thorough assessments are vital for holistic disease management.
26) Reason:
'Reason' pertains to the rationale behind medical decisions, treatment modalities, and research methodologies. Understanding the reasoning behind approaches to treating conditions allows healthcare providers to engage in evidence-based practices, ensuring that interventions are grounded in scientifically valid principles and patient needs.
27) Indian:
'Indian' refers to the cultural, traditional, and medical practices rooted in India's rich heritage. Understanding Indian health perspectives, especially in Ayurveda, enables the incorporation of indigenous knowledge into contemporary evidence-based practice, fostering comprehensive care that is culturally sensitive and scientifically robust.
28) Edema (Oedema):
'Edema' is characterized by excess fluid accumulation in body tissues, commonly associated with inflammatory processes. Recognizing edema is essential in diagnosing and assessing the severity of conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, as it provides insights into underlying disease activity and helps guide treatment decisions.
29) Agni:
'Agni' in Ayurveda symbolizes digestive fire, essential for maintaining health and balance in the body. An imbalance in 'agni' is believed to lead to the formation of 'ama,' influencing various diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis. Understanding agni is fundamental for holistic treatment approaches in Ayurvedic medicine.
30) Pratishthana (Pratisthana, Pratishthan):
'Pratishthana' in an Ayurvedic context often refers to the foundational principles or establishment of knowledge. It is significant in grounding Ayurvedic practices and research, ensuring that treatments and practices resonate with established traditional wisdom while being adaptable to modern healthcare needs.
31) Practising (Practicing):
'Practicing' refers to the application of knowledge in real-world clinical settings. It emphasizes the importance of applying theoretical principles of Ayurvedic medicine to patient care, ensuring that practitioners can translate learned expertise into effective treatment strategies for chronic conditions.
32) Talapatra (Tala-patra):
'Talapatra' refers to palm leaves traditionally used for writing Ayurvedic texts. These ancient texts hold immense cultural and historical significance, preserving vast knowledge regarding medical practices, herbal formulations, and treatment protocols, essential for educating current and future Ayurveda practitioners.
33) Knowledge:
'Knowledge' denotes the body of information developed through experience, research, and education. In medicine, having comprehensive knowledge is crucial for informed clinical decision-making, ensuring that treatments are based on evidence and aligned with the best practices in patient care.
34) Inference:
Inference refers to the conclusions drawn from observations and data. In clinical research, making informed inferences about treatment efficacy or patient outcomes is critical for advancing medical knowledge and improving healthcare strategies, ensuring that patient care is based on reliable evidence.
35) Varanasi (Varanashi):
'Varanasi' is an important cultural center in India, known for its contributions to Ayurveda. The city's historical significance brings attention to traditional medical practices, facilitating the integration of Ayurvedic knowledge into broader medical contexts, particularly in holistic healthcare approaches.
36) Prakriti (Prakrti):
'Prakriti' denotes an individual's constitution in Ayurveda, affecting their health and susceptibility to various diseases. Understanding a patient’s prakriti allows practitioners to tailor treatments based on inherent characteristics, enhancing the efficacy of therapeutic interventions, especially in managing chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
37) Language:
Language is the primary medium for communication of medical knowledge, patient history, and treatment plans. In the context of Ayurveda, understanding the terminologies used in texts is essential for accurate interpretation and application of concepts to clinical practice.
38) Relative:
'Relative' pertains to the comparative assessment among various parameters or conditions. In medical research, identifying relative differences in treatment outcomes can guide healthcare providers in optimizing interventions tailored to individual patient needs and can lead to better future therapeutic strategies.
39) Catching (Catch, Catched):
'Catch' signifies the process of identifying or recognizing symptoms in clinical settings. Effectively catching signs of disease is crucial for timely interventions, improving patient outcomes and ensuring responsive healthcare practices that adapt to individual health changes.
40) Sanskrit:
'Sanskrit' is an ancient language of India, in which vast amounts of Ayurvedic literature and traditional texts are written. Understanding Sanskrit is essential for accessing original texts and preserving the knowledge contained within, thereby enriching modern practice with first-hand insights from traditional medicine.
41) Krishna (Krsna):
'Krishna' can refer to various figures in Indian history or texts, often symbolizing knowledge and wisdom. In medical discussions, references to figures like Krishna symbolize the integration of traditional narratives into contemporary health practices, enhancing cultural relevance in healthcare.
42) Ashtanga (Astanga, Ashtan-anga):
'Astanga' refers to a system of Ayurveda composed of eight components. Understanding the Astanga principles allows practitioners to adopt a holistic approach to health and wellness, considering diverse factors that contribute to overall well-being and effective disease management.
43) Anxiety:
'Anxiety' indicates a prevalent mental health concern that can significantly impact patients with chronic conditions. Recognizing and addressing anxiety in rheumatoid arthritis patients can improve their quality of life and treatment adherence, emphasizing the need for integrated care approaches that encompass mental health.
44) Nature:
'Nature' denotes the inherent characteristics or fundamental properties of bodily functions and diseases. In Ayurveda, examining the nature of symptoms and health conditions informs treatment strategies, ensuring that interventions align with patients’ unique holistic needs and promote balance within their physiology.
45) Mathura (Mathur):
'Mathur' may refer to individuals or scholars contributing to Ayurveda's knowledge base. Recognizing key figures in Ayurveda underscores the significance of collaborative efforts in advancing medical understanding, promoting effective methods in clinical practice, and influencing comprehensive health strategies.
46) Dosha (Dosa):
'Dosha' refers to the biological energies in Ayurveda that govern physiological functions. Each individual has a unique dosha constitution, influencing their health. Understanding dosha is vital for personalized treatment approaches, enhancing holistic care tailored to the unique characteristics of each patient.
47) Delhi:
Delhi, the capital of India, plays a vital role in health education and policy formation. The city's integration with modern medicine and traditional practices like Ayurveda allows for a dynamic approach in addressing public health challenges, thereby enhancing healthcare access and efficacy.
48) Chang:
'Chang' may refer to authors or researchers contributing to studies in the field of rheumatology. Highlighting collaboration emphasizes the importance of diverse insights and multidimensional approaches in addressing the complexities of diseases like rheumatoid arthritis.
49) Death:
'Death' represents the ultimate endpoint in disease progression, making it crucial for healthcare discussions. Understanding factors influencing mortality in chronic conditions informs preventative care strategies, aiming to reduce risks and improve patient longevity through effective health interventions.
50) Arya:
'Arya' may denote individuals or concepts in the context of Ayurvedic practices. Acknowledging historical figures emphasizes the roots of modern practices, allowing current practitioners to draw from established wisdom in developing effective health strategies tailored to respective cultures.
51) Food:
'Food' is a critical component of health and wellness, especially in Ayurveda, where diet plays a pivotal role in maintaining balance. Understanding nutritional principles enhances therapeutic approaches, ensuring that dietary recommendations align with treatment goals and patient needs.
52) Line:
'Line' may reference lines of evidence or practice in medical research, highlighting the path through which knowledge is developed and practices are evaluated. Understanding these lines fosters critical thinking, ensuring that practitioners can navigate the complexities of patient care effectively.
53) Pur:
'Poor' may relate to the socioeconomic status of patients, influencing access to healthcare and treatment adherence. Addressing health disparities emphasizes the need for equitable healthcare solutions, ensuring all patients receive comprehensive care irrespective of their circumstances.
54) Peer review:
'Peer review' is a quality control process in academic research, ensuring the rigor and validity of studies before publication. It helps maintain high standards in scientific research. In medicine, the peer review process ensures accurate methodologies and findings, supporting evidence-based practice.
55) Sushruta-samhita (Susruta-samhita):
The 'Sushruta Samhita' is a foundational text in Ayurveda, documenting surgical techniques and medical practices. Understanding its teachings enriches knowledge in medicine, ensuring practitioners have access to traditional wisdom that informs modern surgical practices and enhances holistic patient care.
56) Ashtangasamgraha (Astangasamgraha, Astangasangraha, Ashtanga-samgraha, Ashtanga-sangraha, Ashtangasangraha):
The 'Astanga-samgraha' is an essential Ayurvedic text outlining comprehensive guidelines for wellness and disease management. Familiarity with its teachings aids practitioners in integrating traditional insights into modern healthcare, facilitating an understanding of holistic health and disease prevention strategies.
57) Madhavanidana (Madhava-nidana):
The 'Madhava Nidana' is an authoritative text in Ayurveda focusing on diagnostic criteria for various diseases. Knowledge of its content helps practitioners discern pathogenic principles, enabling accurate diagnoses and effective treatment applications in contemporary Ayurvedic practices.
58) Accumulation (Accumulating, Accumulate):
'Accumulation' often relates to the gathering of 'ama' or toxins in the body in Ayurveda, leading to disease. Understanding how accumulation occurs informs therapeutic approaches aimed at detoxifying the body, enhancing overall health and well-being in individuals with chronic conditions.
59) Discussion:
'Discussion' in a research context emphasizes collaborative dialogues essential for knowledge exchange and problem-solving. It encourages reflection on findings and implications, ensuring that research translates into practical applications while considering various perspectives and potential improvements in patient care.
60) Developing:
'Developing' refers to the process of creating or enhancing tools, methodologies, or practices in research or clinical settings. Continuous developing in medicine is crucial for adapting to new findings, improving patient outcomes, and ensuring that healthcare systems remain effective and responsive to evolving challenges.
61) Samgraha (Sangraha):
'Samgraha' pertains to accumulation, summarizing methods, and principles within Ayurvedic texts. Understanding samgraha facilitates interpretations of treatment philosophies, guiding practitioners in holistic assessments and the application of Ayurvedic concepts to effectively manage patient health.
62) Dividing:
'Dividing' pertains to the categorization of concepts, practices, or findings within research. Accurately dividing data enables clearer analyses and interpretations, fostering an understanding of relationships between variables and leading to more precise conclusions in the context of patient care.
63) Delusion (Deluded):
'Delusion' can refer to misconceptions or errors in understanding health conditions. In medical practice, addressing delusions is vital for ensuring accurate diagnoses, developing effective treatments, and promoting patient education, helping individuals make informed decisions regarding their health.
64) Hridaya (Hrdaya):
The term 'Hridaya' in Ayurveda signifies the heart, representing the core of emotional and physical health. Understanding Hridaya enables practitioners to integrate psychological well-being into treatment strategies, fostering holistic approaches that consider both the emotional and physical dimensions of health.
65) Madhava:
'Madhava' may refer to scholars or texts significant in Ayurveda, emphasizing historical contributions to health knowledge. Recognizing these figures underscores the importance of their work in current practices and fosters respect for the traditional foundations of contemporary medicine.
66) Writing:
'Writing' refers to the documentation of knowledge and findings in academia. In medicine, clear writing is necessary for conveying complex ideas, ensuring that research is accessible, and facilitating knowledge sharing among practitioners to improve patient outcomes and treatment strategies.
67) Maurya:
'Maurya' may refer to notable figures in Ayurvedic history, whose contributions enriched the medical ethics and practices. Understanding Maurya’s historical context allows healthcare professionals to appreciate the evolution of Ayurveda, influencing contemporary applications in treatment methodologies.
68) Nidana:
'Nidana' refers to the diagnostic elements in Ayurveda, linking symptoms to the underlying causes of diseases. Recognizing nidana is crucial for accurate assessments, enhancing treatment strategies, and ensuring interventions are tailored to address specific health concerns and individual patient needs.
69) Nirama:
'Nirama' signifies the absence of toxins (ama) in Ayurvedic context. Understanding nirama highlights the goal of treatments aimed at restoring balance and revitalizing bodily functions, essential for overall well-being and chronic disease management in integrative health approaches.
70) Nidhi:
'Nidhi' may refer to repositories of knowledge or traditional practices. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining and accessing indigenous practices that inform contemporary healthcare, enriching the understanding and efficacy of treatments in personalized patient care.
71) Bhava:
'Bhava' denotes emotional or psychological states in Ayurveda, emphasizing their significance on overall health. Recognizing the interplay between bhava and physical health is vital in holistic approaches, ensuring that emotional well-being is prioritized in treatment strategies.
72) India:
'India' is pivotal to the understanding of traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda. Its diverse cultural heritage and rich history in healthcare provide a context for contemporary practices, aligning both modern and traditional methodologies in holistic health approaches.
73) Kumar:
'Kumar' may refer to contributors in the medical field who advance the understanding of Ayurvedic practices. Acknowledging individuals named Kumar highlights the collective effort in enhancing healthcare methodologies through traditional wisdom and modern adaptations.
74) Sugar:
'Sugar' indicates dietary components relevant in managing health within the context of chronic diseases. Understanding the implications of sugar on health informs treatment strategies, critical for managing conditions like rheumatoid arthritis in an integrative healthcare approach.
75) Hindi (Himdi):
'Hindi' represents a key language in India, allowing for broader communication and accessibility of Ayurvedic texts and practices. Engaging with patients in their native language enhances understanding and adherence to treatment recommendations, fostering culturally competent healthcare.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 88]