Abstract

A COMPREHENSIVE STUDY OF ASTHIKSHAYA WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO OSTEOPENIA

Khushal Kumar*, Jyoti Raman, Prof. Pawankumar Godatwar and Dr. Preeti Gavali

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Abstract

Objective: To study and conceptualize the concept of Asthikshaya in Ayurveda. Data Sources: Charaka Samhita with Chakrapani commentary, Sushrut Samhita with Dalhan commentary and Ashtang Hridaya with Sarvangsundra commentary, all accessed from NIIMH website. Principles of anatomy & physiology by Tortora as a source of contemporary data. Review Methods: Literary review mainly focussed on description of Asthi Dhatu and its relation with Vata Dosha by Ashrayashrayi Sambhandha. Etiological factors of Asthikshaya along with symptoms and Samprapti are corelated with osteopenia. Results: Asthikshaya is a condition in which there is a progressive decrease in the Asthi Dhatu (Bone tissue). Asthikshaya is not described as a separate entity in Samhitas but Acharya Charaka has explained it under 18 types of Kshaya. It is a slowly progressive bone metabolic disorder. Conclusion: Osteopenia is considered as a silent disease which if remain untreated may lead to osteoporosis; a major cause of fractures. Asthikshaya is a Vata Vyadhi without any prodromal symptoms like osteopenia. Hence, Asthikshaya (Osteopenia) can be considered as a prodromal phase of osteoporosis.

Keywords: Asthikshaya, Ashrayashrayi Sambhandha, Osteopenia.