Abstract

REVIVING TRADITIONAL WISDOM IN MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS: AYURVEDIC CASE MANAGEMENT OF AVABAHUKA W.S.R TO FROZEN SHOULDER

Dr. Amrita Nayek*, Dr. Sujata Das, Dr. Dhananjay Sarkar

Abstract

Musculoskeletal disorders significantly interfere with daily life, especially when associated with pain and restriction of movement. These conditions often limit an individual’s ability to perform routine activities, leading to functional dependence, psychological distress, and reduced quality of life. Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) is a common musculoskeletal disorder affecting the Amsa Sandhi (shoulder joint), predominantly seen in individuals beyond middle age. Clinically, it presents with pain, stiffness, and progressive limitation of shoulder movements, making simple activities such as combing hair or wearing clothes difficult. The global prevalence of frozen shoulder is estimated to be approximately 2–5%. In Ayurveda, frozen shoulder can be correlated with Avabahuka. The present case study reports a 65-year-old female who presented to the Outpatient Department with complaints of bilateral shoulder pain and restricted movements for the past 6– 7 months. After detailed clinical evaluation, the patient was diagnosed as a case of Avabahuka. The treatment protocol included Nasya therapy followed by Agnikarma. Significant improvement in shoulder mobility and complete relief from pain were observed within 15 days of treatment and confirmed during follow-up. This case suggests that combined Ayurvedic therapeutic modalities may be effective in managing Avabahuka and improving functional outcomes in frozen shoulder.

Keywords: Avabahuka, Frozen Shoulder, Nasya, Agnikarma, Musculoskeletal Disorders.