Ayurvedic interventions in Avabahuka (Frozen Shoulder) - A Single Case Study

Avabahuka is a disease described in classical Ayurvedic texts, Acharya Sushruta and other Acharyas have considered Avabahuka as Vatavyadhi, mainly affecting the shoulder joint (Amsa Sandhi). It is specified by pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint, dominant to restricted movement. The condition is caused mainly by Vata Dosha vitiation, especially when aggravated Vata obstructs the normal functioning of the Sira (nerves), Snayu (ligaments), and Sandhi (joints) in the shoulder. This leads to Shoola (pain) and Bahupraavritti Hani (restricted movement of the arm). According to Acharya Charaka Vatavyadhi is described under Ashta Maha Gada. In the present study, patient having the complaints of Pain and stiffness in the left shoulder for 6 months, with restricted range of motion was managed by using Shamana Aushadhis internally along with Patrapottali Pinda Swedana and Nasya Karma, which was significantly beneficial to the patient of Avabahuka i.e., Frozen Shoulder for long time.