Efficacy of Marma Chikitsa in the management of Avabahuka (frozen shoulder) - A Single Case Study

Abstract

Avabahuka (frozen shoulder) is a type of Vata Vyadhi caused by vitiated Vata Dosha with Anubhandha of Kapha Dosha. The symptoms of Avabahuka can be correlated with the symptoms of adhesive capsulitis, which is commonly known as frozen shoulder. Being a disease of shoulder joint, which has the greatest range of motion, it seriously affects routine day-to-day activities. A 56-year-old female came to the OPD of Pt. Khushilal Sharma Government Ayurvedic College and Hospital, Bhopal (MP) with pain and restricted movement in the right shoulder since 6 months, having undergone conventional treatment without any significant improvement. In this case study effect of Marma Chikitsa in the management of Avabahuka (frozen shoulder) is evaluated. The patient was treated with Marma Chikitsa for 10 days. The range of movements improved gradually from 45 to 123° for abduction, 102° to 165° for flexion, 53 to 65 for external rotation, and 30° to 45° for extension. VAS score for pain in the right shoulder was 7 before treatment, which came down to 4 after first course of the treatment regimen and gradually to 3 after completion of the treatment. The study suggested that Marma Chikitsa may be used for relieving symptoms of Avabahuka; however, study on large population was suggested.