Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences

Introduction

It occurs due to friction or tear of the ossified posterior insertion of the plantar fascia which is common in people who stand or walk for long time. Plantar fasciitis is the result of degenerative irritation of the plantar fascia origin at the medial calcaneal tuberosity of the heel as well as the surrounding perifascial structures.^[1] Several factors that increase the risk of developing plantar fasciitis include obesity, pes planus (flat foot or absence of the foot arch when standing), pes cavus (high-arched foot), limited dorsiflexion of the ankle, prolonged standing, walking on hard surfaces, and faulty shoes. The diagnosis of plantar fasciitis can usually be made on the basis of history and physical examination alone.^[2] The exact cause of plantar fasciitis is unknown but it is believed that most cases result from overuse stress. The probable risk factors of plantar fasciitis include trauma to heel, excessive running, obesity and occupation requiring prolonged standing.^[3]

Ayurveda is the valuable knowledge that was pre-existing and developed by our great ancestors. Marma is a Sanskrit word that refers to any vital or sensitive Sthan of the body. Marma is the Sthan where Mamsa, Sira, Snayu, Asthi, and Sandhi conjoin. These Sthan are considered to be vital points because these are the site of Prana (vital force) and are influenced by consciousness. Marma Sthan can be activated by mild pressure and therapeutic massage. This technique is known as Marma Chikitsa. In Vatakantak vitiated Vata is accumulated in Gulpha Sandhi and produces pain. while Rogmarg of the Vatkantak is Madhyam. as per Acharya Sushrut in the Sushruta Samhita, Vatkantak is an imbalance of Vata at Gulpha Sandhi, as well as discomfort when walking on an uneven surface.^[4]

Case Report

A 40-year-old female housewife came towards the outpatient department of Pt. Khushilal Sharma Government Ayurvedic College and Hospital in Bhopal (MP) with a three-month history of right heel pain. The patient complained of significant discomfort on the first step in the morning, which got worse, uncomfortable motions, and increased tenderness. Housework exacerbated the symptoms. She was diagnosed with plantar fasciitis.

Subjective and objective parameters will be assessed according to self-grading system.

Table 1: Scoring pattern of sign and symptoms

Observations and Results

Table 2:

Discussion

The above-mentioned results were assessed by examining the improvement in symptoms using a self-grading scale for subjective factors such as pain. Samhitas and Sangraha Granthas refer to plantar fasciitis as a Vatakantak. The intense workload and fast-paced lifestyle, combined with inadequate dietary habits, can create a variety of health problems, including diseases induced by Vata vitiation known as Vatavyadhi. Plantar fasciitis is one such painful disease that can have a significant impact on the patient's daily activities. Marma Chikitsa can help reduce pain. Participants in a study were treated with Marma Chikitsa for 15 days, and their symptoms improved significantly. Pain intensity reduced and mobility became easier.

Probable mode of action of Marma Chikitsa

Marma Chikitsa is a traditional Indian therapy that offers various benefits such as relieving muscle tension, promoting better sleep, removing energy blockages, clearing obstructions of Srotas, pacifying Vata Dosha, controlling Vyana Vata, balancing the functioning of the autonomic nervous system, and improving physical flexibility. This therapy is particularly beneficial for people who experience Plantar Fasciitis, a condition characterized by stiffness and degeneration caused by Vata aggravation.