Ayurvedic Management of Osteoarthritis (OA) of Knee Joint: A Single Case Study

Abstract

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common degenerative disorder that predominantly affects weight-bearing joints such as the knee. Age-related changes in the musculoskeletal system contribute significantly to the development and progression of OA, making advancing age one of the major risk factors. The main clinical features of osteoarthritis include joint pain, swelling, and restriction of movement. A similar clinical presentation can be correlated with the concept of Sandhigata Vata, described under Vata Vyadhi in Ayurvedic classics. This case report describes a 75-year-old female patient who presented with complaints of bilateral knee joint pain for more than 15 years, associated with swelling. The patient also reported difficulty in walking, and clinical examination revealed restricted range of motion of the knee joints. The patient was admitted and a detailed clinical evaluation was carried out. At the time of admission, the presence of Ama was suspected based on clinical features; therefore, Rookshana Kriya was initially administered internally and externally by procedures like Lepanam, Dhanyamla Dhara. Subsequently, treatment aimed at Vata Shamana and Brimhana Karma by Upanaham and Pizhinju Thadaval was implemented along with appropriate internal medications for a duration of two months. It could be concluded that efficient use of external and internal Ayurvedic treatment methodologies in the background of accurate diagnosis can provide symptomatic relief to patients suffering from Osteoarthritis.