A Critical Review on Sandhi Sharir with special reference to Upamana Pramana

Abstract

Ayurveda, the Ancient Medico Holistic Science, which is comprised of numerous fundamental concepts with basic doctrines. Ayurveda along with its concepts is eternal (Shaswata), and have their own identity which does not require other science to indulge in between. Such fundamental concepts are literally better understood, analysed and merely utilized in clinical practice only with the proper utility of Pramanas. Pramanas in Ayurveda are means of true knowledge. Acharya Sushruta describe four Pramanas and among the four Pramanas i.e. Pratyaksha (Direct perception), Agama (Teaching of scriptures), Anumama (Inference), Upamana (Analogy) - Upamana Pramana is used widely in Ayurvedic literatures. Upamana or Aupamya give the knowledge or idea of an object by similar comparison. The meaning of word Sandhi is “the meeting point of two or more structures.” According to modern, joint is a point where two or more bones articulates with each other. Aacharya Sushruta hasquoted that although there are numerous Sandhi in our body which cannot be counted so only Asthi Sandhi should be considered while enumerating Sandhis. To make the concept of Sandhi Sharir (Joints) clearer or to make it understand in a better and simpler way Acharya Sushruta has described it by comparing with one or more objects or to the day today available things by using the Upamana Pramana. The examples mentioned are not only meant for better understanding but also anatomically fit with structures and some extent to functions. A thorough knowledge of the structure and function of the joint is required to diagnose and treat the diseases of joints. So, the knowledge of anatomy of joints should be known.