"Clinical study to assess the efficacy of Nitya Shodhana, Shaman and Rasayana chikitsa in the management of Sandhigata vata with special reference to osteoarthritis. Ayurvedic Management of Sandhigata Vata

Abstract

Background: Inappropriate physical activities as well as improper dietary habits lead to Osteoarthritis. The vitiated Vata vitiates other Dosha that gets launched in Sandhi (joints) which leads to pathological changes termed as Sandhigata Vata. In Ayurveda, Shodhana and Shamana Chikitsa are indicated for pacification of aggravated Dosha and Rasayana Chikitsa for replenishment of Dhatukshaya.

Methods: In the present study, 30 study subjects showing classical signs and symptoms of Sandhigata Vata were enrolled. Gokshuradi Guggulu as Shamana Chikitsa, Gandharvahastyadi Kashaya as a Nitya Shodhana along with Dashamoola Kwath Parisheka was given for 14 days followed by Rasayana Churna (Gokshura-Guduchi-Amalaki) for three months. Assessment of clinical efficacy was done on the basis of subjective and objective parameters - Shool (Resting Pain), Shool (Nocturnal Pain), Akunchan Prasarna Shool (Pain of Movements) of Knee, assessment of Pain of Weight bearing, Difficulty in Walking (Sakashtagaman), Pidanasahatwa (Tenderness), Shotha, Range of movementwas done. The data generated through clinical study was subjected to appropriate statistical tests.

Results: Significant relief was observed in all symptoms which was statistically significant too (p < 0.05). Not a single adverse event reported in any of the study subjects during or after the study.

Discussion: Gokshuradi Guggulu is an effective Rasayana as well as Shaana, Guggulu acts as Vatahara, Shoolahara. Gandharvahastyadi Kashaya helps in vatanulomana & regularizes vatadosha. Dashamoola Kwath Parisheka pacifies Vatadosha and thus relieves pain and swelling in Sandhigata Vata. Rasayana Churna proved to be very effective in managing the degenerative joint disorder like Sandhigata Vata.

Conclusion: Present study reveals that the selected composite management of Nitya Shodhana, Shamana and Rasayana Chikitsa has potential effect on Sandhigata Vata with the added advantage of being free from side effects.