Abstract

AN AYURVEDIC CLINICAL PRACTICE PROTOCOL FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF TENNIS ELBOW (SNAYUGATA VATA)

Dr. Samruddhi Vaidkar, Dr. Pranesh Gaikwad*, Dr. Vaishali Chaudhari, Dr. Ravina Verma

Abstract

Tennis elbow, clinically known as lateral epicondylitis, is one of the most common causes of lateral elbow pain resulting from repetitive overuse of the extensor tendons of the forearm. Although various conservative and surgical treatment modalities are available, the recurrence of symptoms and prolonged recovery remain major clinical challenges. Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to musculoskeletal disorders through individualized treatment based on Dosha, Dushya, and the stage of the disease. However, the absence of a standardized Ayurvedic clinical practice protocol often leads to variations in treatment selection and outcomes. The present article aims to develop an Ayurvedic clinical practice protocol for the management of tennis elbow by integrating classical Ayurvedic principles with available contemporary evidence. Relevant information was collected from classical Ayurvedic texts, including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya, and other authoritative treatises, along with published literature retrieved from electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and AYUSH Research Portal. Based on the literature review, a structured protocol encompassing clinical assessment, stage-wise management, internal medications, external therapies, Panchakarma interventions, rehabilitation, and dietary and lifestyle recommendations was formulated. The proposed protocol is intended to provide a practical framework for clinicians and may serve as a foundation for future clinical validation and evidence generation in Ayurvedic management of tennis elbow.

Keywords: Tennis elbow, Lateral epicondylitis, Ayurveda, Clinical practice protocol, Snayugata Vata, Agnikarma.