Abstract

CADAVERIC STUDY OF MARMAS OF THE PALM AND SOLE WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO THE DERMATOMES OF SPINAL NERVES

*Vd. Hemant Patel, Vd. Chhaya Patil

Abstract

Background: In Ayurvedic literature, Marmas are designated as vital anatomical points where five tissue elements (Mamsa, Sira, Snayu, Asthi, and Sandhi) meet and where Prana (life force) resides. Acharya Sushruta classified 107 Marmas, including 44 in the extremities (Shakhas). Among these, four Marmas are situated specifically in each palm and sole: Kshipra, Talahridaya, Kurcha, and Kurchashira.  Objective: To establish an anatomical and neurodevelopmental correlation between the Shakhashrita Marmas of the palm (Hastatala) and sole (Padatala) with modern neuroanatomy, specifically focusing on dermatomal maps and peripheral nerve distributions.  Methods: A combined methodology comprising literary analysis of classical Ayurvedic texts (Sushruta Samhita, Charaka Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya) and cadaveric dissection was conducted. Hand and foot dissections were performed to trace the underlying neurovascular structures and map them against C6–T1 and L4–S2 dermatomal zones.  Results: Kshipra Marma maps directly to the first interdigital web spaces, innervated by the terminal digital branches of the median and radial nerves (C6–C7) in the hand, and the deep peroneal nerve (L5) in the foot. Talahridaya Marma lies over the superficial/deep palmar arches and medial/lateral plantar nerves (C7–C8 and S1). Kurcha and Kurchashira Marmas align with the thenar/plantar intrinsic muscular complexes and retinacular nerve entrapment sites.  Conclusion: The classical manifestations of Marma Abhighata (trauma) closely parallel acute radiculopathies, peripheral nerve entrapment, and compartment syndromes. Mapping Marmas to modern dermatomes provides a neuroanatomical rationale for Marma Chikitsa (acupressure/stimulation therapies) and regional surgical safety.

Keywords: Marma Sharira, Kshipra Marma, Talahridaya Marma, Dermatomes, Cadaveric Dissection, Neuroanatomy, BAMS.