ANATOMICAL AND CLINICAL PERSPECTIVES OF KSHIPRA MARMA: A REVIEW OF CLASSICAL AYURVEDIC LITERATURE

Kshipra Marma is one of the vital Shakhagata Marma described by Acharya Sushruta among the 107 Marma of the human body. It is anatomically located in the interspace between the thumb and index finger in the upper limb and between the great toe and second toe in the lower limb. Structurally, it is classified as a Snayu Marma and prognostically as a Kalantara Pranahara Marma, exhibiting features suggestive of severe neurovascular involvement. Classical Ayurvedic texts describe grave consequences following trauma to Kshipra Marma, including convulsive movements, neuromuscular disturbances, excessive hemorrhage, and delayed fatal outcomes. Despite these clear descriptions, its precise anatomical correlation in modern literature remains controversial. Various structures have been proposed; however, they fail to adequately explain the classical clinical manifestations. This review critically analyzes Kshipra Marma by correlating classical Ayurvedic descriptions with contemporary anatomical knowledge. Based on its location, structural predominance, and proximity to neurovascular elements, the Extensor Hallucis Longus tendon along with the dorsal digital nerves is proposed as a plausible anatomical correlate providing a rational explanation for the observed clinical effects.