For the last few years, knee pain had slowly become a part of my everyday life. Initially, I did not take it very seriously. I thought it was because of age, household work and being on my feet for most of the day. But gradually I noticed that climbing stairs was becoming difficult. Even getting up after sitting for a long time would make my knees feel stiff and painful.

A relative suggested that I visit SGT Ayurveda Hospital in Gurugram. I had heard about Ayurvedic treatment before, but I always thought Ayurveda simply meant taking herbal medicines or oils. My experience at SGT changed that impression.

During my first consultation, what I liked was that the doctor did not immediately start writing medicines. I was asked quite a few questions about my daily routine, food habits, sleep, digestion and how long I had been having the pain. The doctor also examined my knees and explained that treatment would not be based only on the pain. I was advised a combination of Ayurvedic medicines, local therapies, dietary changes and some modifications in my daily routine.

I was then introduced to Panchakarma therapies. Initially, I was slightly nervous because all the terminology was new to me. The staff explained the procedures in simple language, which made me much more comfortable. The warm oil-based treatments were particularly relaxing. I remember coming home after one of the sessions and telling my husband that, for the first time in months, my legs felt less heavy.

The change was not overnight. This is something I feel people should understand before starting any treatment. After a few sessions and regularly following the advice given to me, I gradually started noticing that my morning stiffness was less troublesome. Walking around the house became more comfortable and I felt more confident about going outside.

Another thing that surprised me was how much attention was given to my diet. I was advised to make a few simple changes rather than being given some impossible diet chart. Because the recommendations were practical, I was actually able to follow them at home.

What I appreciated most at SGT Ayurveda Hospital was the way the treatment was explained. I could ask questions without feeling rushed. Being a teaching hospital, there were students around at times, but the consultations and procedures were supervised and organised.

I still have to take care of my knees and I don’t expect years of discomfort to simply disappear. But the improvement in my daily activities has made a meaningful difference to me.

For anyone considering Ayurveda for a long-standing problem, my suggestion would be to approach it patiently. For me, visiting SGT Ayurveda Hospital was not simply about taking a medicine for knee pain. It made me look at my routine, food and overall health differently, and that has probably been the most useful part of the entire experience.