Effect of Karpasasthyadi Taila Nasya and Trayodashanga Guggulu in Apabahuka - A Case Study

Abstract

The unique position of man as a master mechanic of the animal kingdom is because of skilled movements of his hands and when this shoulder joints get obstructed, we call it as Apabahuka (frozen shoulder), we do not find satisfactory management in modern medical science. Apabahuka is a disease that usually affects the Amsa sandhi (shoulder joint). It is produced by the Vata Dosha. Even though the term Apabahuka is not mentioned in the Nanatmaja Vata Vyadhi, Acharya Sushruta and others have considered Apabahuka as a Vataja Vikara. Amsa Shosha (wasting of the shoulder) can be considered as the preliminary stage of the disease, where loss or dryness of Sleshaka Kapha from Amsa Sandhi occurs. Ayurveda has given more importance of Vata Vyadhis. Nasya is one of the important procedures of classical Panchakarma therapy mentioned in classics for managing Apabahuka. A case of Apabahuka (complaints of severe pain and stiffness, over the back of neck associated with restricted movement of right hand) which was treated for two months under a private orthopaedic surgeon with no significant relief and later treated with Ayurveda. The Ayurveda treatment plan includes Amapachana with Vaishwaanara choorna, Nasya with Karpasasthyadi Taila and Shamanaushadhi Trayodashanga Guggulu for a period of 30 days. Substantial clinical improvement was reported in quality of life after 30 days of the treatment. During the treatment all the signs and symptoms of the patients reduced to a greater extent.