Abstract

ROLE OF AGNIKARMA IN SANDHIGATAVATA (OSTEO ARTHRITIS OF KNEE JOINT): A SUCCESSFUL CLINICAL CASE SERIES

Dr. Rajneesh Baria*, Dr. Kirti Mahajan

Abstract

Sandhigata Vāta is a common and debilitating musculoskeletal disorder described in Ayurveda under the spectrum of Vāta Vyādhi. It occurs due to the aggravation of Vāta doṣa and its localization in the Sandhi (joints), leading to classical symptoms such as śūla (pain), śotha (swelling), and hanti sandhi gati (restricted movement of joints). Ancient Ayurvedic texts like Caraka Saṃhitā and Suśruta Saṃhitā provide detailed descriptions of the etiopathogenesis, symptomatology, and management strategies for Sandhigata Vāta. In modern parlance, the condition is closely correlated with osteoarthritis, a chronic degenerative joint disease characterized by progressive cartilage damage, stiffness, and functional impairment. Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to management, focusing not only on symptomatic relief but also on restoring balance of the doṣas and strengthening joint health. Treatment modalities include snehana (oleation), svedana (fomentation), basti karma (therapeutic enema), upanāha (poultices), agnikarma (thermal cauterization), and administration of Vātahara aushadhis (herbal formulations pacifying Vāta) such as Rasna, Guggulu, and Dashamoola. These therapies aim to alleviate pain, improve joint mobility, and prevent further degeneration.

Keywords: Sandhigata Vāta, Osteoarthritis, Vāta Vyādhi, Ayurveda, Joint disorders, Basti.