Abstract

COMPREHENSIVE STUDY OF AVABAHUKA (FROZEN SHOULDER) – A REVIEW ARTICLE

Dr. Uma Raikwar*, Dr. Pankaj Gupta, Dr. Rita Marwaha and Dr. Shiba Datta Panda

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Abstract

Life deprived of movement is the worst tragedy that can arise in any living organism. That can be one of the main reasons for Ayurvedic literature for considering Vatavyadhies more important compared to disorders caused due to morbidity of other Doshas. Avabahuka is one among the 80 types of Vatavyadhi which affects the normal functioning of the upper limbs thereby the normal routine lifestyle of an individual is affected too. Avabahuka is the disease of Amsa Sandhi (shoulder joint) where Amsamarma is also involved. The only classical symptom explained regarding Avabahuka is Bahupraspanditahara (restricted movement of affected shoulder). Whereas, some other symptoms clinically observed were pain in the affected shoulder, stiffness, sleeplessness, muscle wasting etc. On analysing the etio-pathogenesis, it can be understood that the disease Avabahuka manifests due to Marmaghata, Dhatukṣaya (due to tissue loss) as well as Margavrodha (due to obstruction of vata dosha by one or more doshas). While comparing with modern science, most of the shoulder joint pathologies such as Adhesive capsulitis, Rotator cuff Injuries, Bicipital tendinitis, Cervical spondylosis, Osteoarthritis of the shoulder joint etc. can be incorporated under the broad heading „Avabahuka’. This article aims to deliver a summary of the nature of the disease and the widely accepted treatment of this condition based on other researches.

Keywords: Avabahuka, Vata Vyadhi, Frozen shoulder.