Abstract

EFFICACY OF MADHUTAILIKA BASTI IN JANUSANDHIGATVAT: A CASE REPORT

Dr. Jyoti Pate*, PG Sch., Dr. Vrushali Swami (Associate Professor)

Abstract

Background: Janu Sandhigata Vata is described in Ayurveda as a disorder affecting the knee joint and is clinically comparable to knee osteoarthritis. It is characterized by pain (Sandhi Shoola), swelling (Shotha), stiffness, crepitus (Atopa), and restriction of movements, leading to impaired daily activities and reduced quality of life. As it is predominantly a Vata Dosha disorder, Basti Karma is considered one of the principal therapeutic interventions in its management. Case Presentation: A 51-year-old female patient presented to the outpatient department with complaints of pain in both knee joints, stiffness, swelling, and difficulty in walking for the past 2–3 years. The symptoms were aggravated by prolonged standing, walking, and climbing stairs. Clinical examination revealed tenderness, crepitus, swelling, and restricted range of motion in both knee joints. Based on the clinical features and Ayurvedic assessment, the condition was diagnosed as Janu Sandhigata Vata. Intervention: The patient was treated with Madhutailika Basti for eight consecutive days. The treatment was administered according to classical Ayurvedic principles, including Purva Karma (pre-procedural measures), Pradhana Karma (administration of Basti), and Paschat Karma (post-procedural care). Assessment parameters included the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), knee joint range of motion (ROM), and measurement of joint swelling. Outcome: Marked clinical improvement was observed following the completion of therapy. The VAS score decreased from 8 to 2, indicating significant pain reduction. The WOMAC score improved from 75 to 30, reflecting better functional status and reduced stiffness. Knee joint flexion improved from 90° to 120°, and reduction in swelling was noted. The patient also reported improved mobility and enhanced ability to perform routine daily activities. Conclusion: Madhutailika Basti demonstrated encouraging results in reducing pain, stiffness, and swelling, and in improving joint mobility and functional capacity in this case of Janu Sandhigata Vata (knee osteoarthritis). Further well-designed clinical studies involving larger sample sizes are warranted to establish its therapeutic efficacy and explore its role in the management of knee osteoarthritis.

Keywords: Janu Sandhigata Vata, Knee Osteoarthritis, Madhutailika Basti, Basti Karma, Ayurveda, Case Report.