Evaluation of the effect of Marma Chikitsa in the management of Frozen Shoulder (Avabahuka) - A Pilot Study

Abstract

Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis - capsule thickens and tightens around the shoulder joint, restricting its movement) is a condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, consists. Movement of the shoulder joint is restricted, with loss of active and passive range of motion, and leads to lack of use due to pain. Stiffness is also present there. Avabahuka is one such disease that hampers the day-to-day activity of an individual. Acharya Sushruta has classified Avabahuka, a disease of the Amsa Sandhi (shoulder joint), under the eighty varieties of Vata Vyadhi. Amsa Shosha (wasting of the shoulder) can be considered the preliminary stage of the disease, where loss or dryness of Sleshaka Kapha from Amsa Sandhi occurs. Its growing prevalence in today's world necessitates efficient management with quick and long-lasting effects. Therefore, in such cases, Marma Chikitsa, an alternate Ayurvedic therapy, can be recommended. Multiple sittings are required for better results. Avabahuka can be treated with improvements, regardless of its severity or duration. In present pilot study, emphasis is laid upon eight specific Marma Sthan (or energy points) for the management of Avabahuka by considering the related literature, and an attempt is made to treat the patient of Frozen Shoulder (Avabahuka) by Marma Chikitsa.