Abstract

AVABAHUKA IN AYURVEDIC CLASSICS AND ITS CORRELATION WITH FROZEN SHOULDER: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW

Dr. Nitin Kumar*, Dr. G. S. Hadimani, Dr. Akshay Shetty

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Abstract

Frozen Shoulder, also termed adhesive capsulitis, is a common musculoskeletal disorder characterized by pain, stiffness, and progressive restriction of shoulder movements. In Ayurveda, this condition is described under Avabahuka, a Vataja disorder involving dysfunction of Snayu (ligaments) and Kandara (tendons) at the Amsa Sandhi (shoulder joint). While modern medicine attributes Frozen Shoulder to capsular inflammation, fibrosis, and adhesion formation, Ayurveda interprets it as a manifestation of aggravated Vata leading to structural and functional impairment. This review attempts to correlate the Ayurvedic concept of Avabahuka with Frozen Shoulder, analyze its Nidana Panchaka (etiology, prodromal features, clinical presentation, pathogenesis), and evaluate both classical and modern management strategies. Literature on Ayurvedic interventions including Abhyanga, Swedana, Patra Pinda Sweda, Nasya, and Basti therapies shows promising outcomes in alleviating pain and improving shoulder mobility. Comparative evaluation with contemporary approaches such as NSAIDs, corticosteroids, physiotherapy, and arthroscopic procedures suggests that Ayurveda provides safer, holistic, and long-lasting benefits. This article emphasizes integrative management and highlights the need for further clinical research to validate traditional therapies for global acceptance.

Keywords: Avabahuka, Frozen Shoulder, Vata Vyadhi, Panchakarma, Ayurveda, Adhesive Capsulitis.