Abstract

AN AYURVEDIC APPROACH IN THE MANAGEMENT OF VIPADIKA (PALMOPLANTAR PSORIASIS) - A CASE REPORT

Dr. K. Sangeetha Patil*, Dr. Jasmeen S. Akkalkot, Dr. Deepthi R., Dr. Sajitha K.

Abstract

Palmo-plantar psoriasis is a non-infectious chronic inflammatory dermatological condition that predominantly affects the palms and soles and is capable of producing significant functional disability. It is characterized by erythema, scaling, itching, fissuring, pustule formation, pain, and occasional oozing, thereby impairing daily activities. Contemporary medicine offers symptomatic management, but no definitive curative treatment. In Ayurveda, all skin diseases are described under the broad entity of Kuṣhṭa. Based on clinical presentation and symptomatology, palmo-plantar psoriasis can be correlated with Vipadika, a type of Kṣudra Kuṣhta[1], which is predominantly caused by vitiation of Vata and Kapha Doṣha. Classical Ayurvedic texts advocate Shodhana therapy, especially Virechana Karma, as an effective line of management for Kuṣhta. This article presents a case report of a 21-year-old female patient suffering from chronic fissuring of the heels for one year, associated with severe pain, bleeding, and purulent discharge. The condition caused considerable discomfort and difficulty in walking. The patient was managed with classical Ayurvedic treatment comprising Shodhana Karma[2] in the form of Virechana, followed by Shamana Chikitsa, along with appropriate dietary regulations (Pathya–Apathya) and lifestyle modifications. Assessment of the clinical parameters before and after treatment revealed significant improvement. Following Virechana therapy, the patient experienced marked reduction in pain, fissuring, discharge, and scaling. This case highlights the efficacy of Ayurvedic management, particularly Virechana Karma, in the successful management of palmo-plantar psoriasis and supports its role as a safe and effective therapeutic modality.

Keywords: Vipadika, Vata kapha, palmo plantar psoriasis, Shodhana karma.