Ayurvedic pain management treats pain mainly as a sign of imbalance in Vata, one of the three doshas (energies) that govern the body, since Vata relates to movement and the nervous system. Common treatments include herbs like turmeric, Boswellia, and ashwagandha; warm oil massage (Abhyanga); herbal steam therapy; dietary changes suited to the imbalance; and yoga or breathing practices. For chronic conditions like arthritis, a more intensive detox protocol called Panchakarma may be used.

Some individual herbs (like turmeric and Boswellia) have modest scientific backing for reducing inflammation, but the overall dosha framework isn't validated by modern medicine, so it's best seen as a separate traditional system rather than an equivalent to conventional pain treatment. It's also worth checking with a doctor before combining these herbs with medications, since interactions are possible.