Abstract

AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF JANU SANDHIGATA VATA W.S.R TO KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS: A CASE REPORT

Dr. Pratibha Ambadas Mapari*, Dr. Shweta Asaram Dhumal

Abstract

Background: Janu sandhigata Vata is an important Vataja disorder, characterized predominantly by pain, stiffness, swelling, crepitus and restricted movement of the knee joint. Its clinical presentation shows considerable similarity with knee osteoarthritis, a common age-associated degenerative joint disorder. Classical Ayurvedic texts describe SandhigataVata under Vatavyadhi with characteristic involvement of the Sandhi and impairment of joint function.[1-5] Case presentation: A 58- year-old female presented with bilateral knee pain, stiffness, crepitus and difficulty in walking and climbing stairs for approximately two years. The symptoms were aggravated by prolonged standing, walking and stair climbing and partially relieved by rest. Clinical assessment demonstrated tenderness, painful restriction of knee movements and crepitus. Radiological evaluation of the knee was suggestive of osteoarthritic changes. Based on Ayurvedic assessment, the condition was diagnosed as Janu sandhigata Vata. A multimodal Ayurvedic management protocol consisting of Oral Ayurvedic medicines, Abhyanga, NadiSwedana, JanuBasti, MatraBasti, therapeutic exercise and dietary/lifestyle measures was administered. Results: Following the intervention, reduction in pain, stiffness, crepitus and functional limitation was observed. In the illustrative case model, VAS pain score decreased from 8/10 to 3/10, WOMAC score from 58 to 24, while knee flexion improved from 100° to 120°. The patient reported improvement in walking and stair-climbing ability. Conclusion: The case illustrates the potential usefulness of an integrated Ayurvedic approach in the symptomatic management of Janu sandhigata Vata corresponding clinically to knee osteoarthritis. However, controlled clinical studies with standardized treatment protocols and objective outcome measures are required to establish efficacy.

Keywords: Janu sandhigata Vata, SandhigataVata, Knee Osteoarthritis, Ayurveda, JanuBasti, MatraBasti, Abhyanga, NadiSwedana.