Acu Read
Acu Read
Acu Read
SECTION 1
INTRODUCTION
Marma is one of the unique & important topics discussed in Ayurveda. It plays
an important role in surgery. Hence it is rightly called as Shalya Vishayardha. The
Marma Chikitsa has evolved as a special branch of treatment extensively practiced in
most parts of Kerala. Many of the basic concepts of Marma in Ayurveda &
Acupuncture point in Chinese system of medicine have a close relevancy.
We get many references of major surgeries being carried out by Sushrutha in
our classics by administering sura or madira. But it seems that there was some kind of
Bandha or Pressure being applied over Marma Sthana which is a seat of prana to
create anaesthetic or analgesic effect for performing surgeries. In present days we see
same kind of analgesic or anaesthetic effect being done by acupuncturists for
performing some minor surgeries & to treat many of chronic ailments.
If we go back to the Indian medical classics, known as the Vedas, said to be
written about 7000 years ago, we find "needle therapy" [Suchi karma] mentioned
there. One volume of the Vedas, known as the Suchi Veda, translated as the "art of
piercing with a needle" was written about 3000 years ago and deals entirely with
acupuncture. Unfortunately this text is not available today. During ancient period,
bamboo or wooden Suchi needles were used for acupuncture. Sushrutha has
mentioned the art of acupuncture under Vyadhana or Bhedhana Karma (Bhedhana
means to pierce or to cut). During ancient time needles made up of wood were used,
later on various metal needles were used for this purpose. Sushruta in Sharira sthana 8
Introduction
Siravyadha has advised puncturing the channels (sira) by using needles, which are as
small as vrihi (vrihi is the outer cover of the rice grain which is pointed at both ends.
The Indians have the knowledge of both body acupuncture and ear acupuncture. Thus
in India, an entire system of treating every type of disease by the ear alone was [also]
developed! Some scholars believe that acupuncture probably evolved in prehistoric
times out of the modifications of the principles of Ayurveda near the snowy bleaks of
the Himalayas, where no herbs were available.
... In fact, this knowledge has already got passed to the nearby countries around India
mainly during Buddha period and got stored as in cold storage. It is not a
coincidence that almost all Buddhist countries have this knowledge and it is the Indian
fortune that the origin of this knowledge [of acupuncture] is from India (But rather
unfortunate that not many people in India know this and appreciate this fact as we sure
have a 'tradition' of forgetting our traditions! and sciences be it mantric or Vedic.
So a comprehensive study on classical concept of Marma & Traditional
Chinese Acupuncture Point is carried out to evaluate its role in inducing analgesic
effect. In this present study Suchi Vyadha & Acupuncture on two different groups are
done over patients suffering from J anu Sandhigata Vata (Osteo Arthritis of Knee) to
evaluate its Analgesic effect.
Though the concept of Marma is well described in our classics, its importance
in therapeutic aspect (other than Viddha Lakshana) is neither mentioned nor used.
(I.e. Marma Sthana is not used to cure disease or to relieve pain). They only say that,
Marma Sthana, a very vital point, should not be injured & should be kept intact even
while doing surgeries. In this present study, a first of its kind, an attempt is made to
Introduction
MARMA REVIEW
Marma is not a new term as far as Indians are Concerned. It figures from Atharva
vedic times to recent literature. The references of Marmas are also seen in the
independent Tamil Medical Textual.
If we go through the Sanskrit Lexicans namely Vachaspathya, Shabdha
Kalpadrumam etc. we can see that the word Marma is used in three different
meanings. They are;
1. Swarupa
2. Tatwa
3. J eevasthana
As far as Ayurvedic literature is concerned the term Marma is used as J eevasthana.
HISTORICALVIEW
18(p.12)
Marma science is part of Vedic science. Naturally it has influenced all other sciences
which we find in Vedas like Yoga, Ayurveda, Dance, Music, Mantra, Marital arts,
Astrology, Philosophy, Siddha system of medicine and sexology. Therefore we must
study its historical background.
The development of this science took place from Saraswati culture to the time period
of Charaka, Sushruta, Ashtang hridaya and Ashtang sangraha and later on Buddha
religion was responsible for its spread in the neighbouring Countries like China and
J apan.
Review of Marma
Marma in War
The origin can be traced to Saraswati Culture or Indus Valley Civilization. It is known
from various excavations at Harrappa and Mohen-jo-daro that people in this culture
were using various types of weapons in war.
In Vedic period also people were using different weapons like axes, spears, daggers,
maces, bows and arrows. These were made of copper or bronze. For defensive
purpose they were using body shields. Knowledge of Marma exists from very ancient
time of Vedas, which dates back 4000 BC. The fist reference is found in Rig-Veda
.There is reference of words like Varman and drapi, which is some kind of body
armor or corselet to protect the body from the assault of enemy weapons. In Atharva-
Veda also we find the reference of the term kavacha or corselet or breast-plate for the
protection.
In Mahabharata the great epic also we find many reference for Marma or Varman. (
Karnaparva 19.31, Shalyaparva 32.63 and 36.64, Dronaparva 125.17, Bhishmaparva
95.47, Virataparva 31.12 and 15). It is interesting that there are references of
protective clothings of the Marmas of elephants and horses also.
Arthashastra of Kautilya mentions the use of arrowheads made up of metal and some
protective instruments against the injury to marmas.
Marma and Marital arts
Ahimsa or non-violence was taught by this religion. Monks were not allowed to use
weapons even for their self-protection.
Review of Marma
Milindapanha text, which is a dialogue between King Milinda and Monk Nagasena,
explains that unarmed self defense was taught as a part of 19 arts. This science was
essential when Buddha religion started spreading beyond the boundaries of India into
neighboring countries like China, Indonesia and Thailand etc. This art became
effective and popular because the monks were able to protect themselves against
weapons.
In the Hohan province of China a special monastery was built to accommodate monks
travelling from India to China. This was built around 300 AD and was called Shaolian
Temple which later on became famous place for teaching martial arts based on marma
or vital parts described in Ayurveda. This art was kept as secret for centuries, as it
was taught only to certain disciples.
As the monks started travelling to various countries like J apan, Indochina etc. This art
also spread to these countries. It is therefore very certain that the Traditional Chinese
Medicine had adopted this science from Ayurveda. Hence we do come across with
various references in marital art like Karate.
Marma and Yoga
From the excavations done at the site of Mohen-jo-daro, we find some interesting
figures which shows that the concept of marma was applied for enriching the Yoga
practice.
Marma and Sex
It is evident in Siddha system, that science of vital points has been used to increase
the vigour, strength for enjoyment.
Review of Marma
Core of anything.
Any vital member or organ.
Anything which requires to be kept concealed.
Secret in quality.
Hidden meaning.
Any secret or mystery
Definitions of Marmas:
There are several classical Ayurvedic definitions of Marmas. From these we
can see that Marmas are related to the energies of the body, mind, Prana and doshas.
They are key connecting points to all aspects of our energies from the inner most
consciousness to the outermost physical organs.
Marmas are the sites where muscle, veins, ligaments, bones and joints meet
together, though all these structures need not be present at each Marma. This
explains Marmas as important connection centers or crossroads in the physical
body.
1
(v 6/15, pg. no. 371 pp. 734)
Marmas are sites where important nerves come together along with related
structures like muscles and tendons, a similar definition to that of Charaka. He
says that sites which are painful, tender and show abnormal pulsation should also
be considered as Marma or vital points regardless of their anatomical structure
1
.
(z.6/18)
They are the seats of life or Prana, means that any sensitive point on the body is
a potential Marma
1
.
Review of Marma
Marmas are places where the three doshas (Vata, Pitta and Kapha) are present
along with their subtle forms as Prana, Tejas and Ojas and the three gunas of
sattva, rajas and tamas. This means that Marmas control not only the outward
from of the doshas,but their inward essences or master forms as well (Prana, Tejas
and Ojas) and also the mind (satva)
1
.
Marmas are said to be supportive pillars of life, as any trauma to them leads to
death or deformity. Hence they are called J eevanadhara
2
.
Any trauma to Marma, results in death or miseries equal to death
1
.
( v. 6/40, pg. no. 376 pp. 734).
Sushruta has mentioned Marma, as the seat of Prana, Tridoshas and Triguna.
Well-being and illness of the body depends upon homeostasis of Tridoshas. So
any injury to Marma causes derangement of all this factors. Sequels depend on the
specific factors involved. Any injury to Marma, result in psychosomatic
disturbances.
1
According to Sushruta 4 types of siras carrying Vata, Pitta, Kapha and Rakta take
part in the formation of Marma sthana, apart from the anatomical structures
1
.
Composition of Marmas:
Marmas are classified according to their dominant physical constituents as
muscle, vessel, ligament, joint, or bone based regions.
Mamsa Marmas are related to muscle based structures like fascia, serous
membranes, sheaths and muscles.
Sira Marmas related to various vessels or channels supplying energy or
fluids to the body, particularly the blood and lymphatic vessels, Sushruta explains
four types of these vessels.
Review of Marma
Vatavaha Sira
Pittavaha Sira
Kaphavaha Sira
Raktavaha Sira
Channels carrying the doshas are more energetic than anatomical in ones basis and
so anatomical correlations are only general. Sushruta notes that no single vessel
carries Vata, Pitta or Kapha alone.
Snayu Marmas related to the tissues and structures that bind the bones and
muscles and aponeuroses.
Asti Marmas related to bony tissue, can be classified into bones proper,
cartilages, teeth and nails.
Sandhi Marmas related to the joints, are important sensitive regions on the
body for both Prana and the doshas. J oints are classified into movable,
partially movable and non movable. These can be complex or large Marmas.
The knowledge of Marma has got wide implication in the many fields of medical
practice, but as today its traditional practices are limited and scattered in India. The
knowledge of Marma can be classified in following fields:
In martial art and warfare, in surgical importance
in the management of disease and in the diagnosis of illness, in
medical importance
Review of Marma
Trimarmeeya adhyaya.
Table No. 01: Showing Shaka Marmas:
Marma
Sthana
Ashraya
Anatomical
synonym
Parinama/Viddha
Lakshana
Pra
man
a
Sank
hya
Talahrudaya In the middle of
palmar or plantar
aspect in line of the
middle toe
Mamsa Palmar
aponeurosis
Kalanthara pranahara-
Death due to severe
pain
4
Kshipra In b/n the thumb &
index finger or in b/n
big toe & 1
st
toe
Snayu 1
st
intermeta-tarsal
ligament
Kalanthara pranahara-
Death due to
convulsions
4
Kurcha Two angulas above
the Kshipra
Snayu Tarsometa-
tarsal &
Intertarsal
ligament
Vaikalyakara-Inability
to move & rotate the
foot &hand
4 4
Kurchasira Below the Gulpha
Sandhi (Ankle J oint)
Snayu Lateral ligament
of ankle
Rujakara-Causes
Shopha & Ruja
1 4
Gulpha At the junction of
foot & calf
Sandhi Ankle joint Rujakara-Causes pain,
stiffness & inability to
performactivities
2 2
Manibandha At the J unction of
hand & forearm
Sandhi Wrist joint Rujakara-Causes pain,
stiffness & inability to
performactivities
2 2
Indravasti Between the J anghas Mamsa Cubital fossa Kalanthara pranahara-
Death due to severe
loss of blood
4
J anu At the joint of Uru &
J angha
Sandhi Knee joint Vaikalyakara-Produces
Lamness
3 2
Koorparam At the junction of
upper arm& forearm
Sandhi Elbow joint Vaikalyakara-
Distortion of arm
3 2
Ani Three angulas above
on either side of J anu
& Koorpara
Snayu Biceps tendon Vaikalyakara-Increased
swelling & stiffness
4
Urvi In the middle of the
thigh & arm
Sira Femoral vessels Vaikalyakara-Causes
Emaciation of leg due
to Haemorrhage
1 4
Lohitaksha At the root of thigh
above the Urvi below
the angle of groin
Sira Femoral vessels Vaikalyakara-Paralysis
of extremity due to
haemorrhage
4
Vitapa Between the Scrotum
& Groin
Snayu Inguinal canal Vaikalyakara-Causes
Impotency
1 2
Kaksha Between the axilla &
collar bone
Snayu Axilla Vaikalyakara-
Distortion of the Upper
1 2
Review of Marma
Limb
Review of Marma
FIG.1 MARMAS OF ANTERIOR SURFACE
Review of Marma
Review of Marma
FIG.2 MARMAS OF POSTERIOR SURFACE
Review of Marma
Name of the
group
San
khya
Marmas included in this group Viddha Lakshana
Mamsa Marma 10 Indravasthy, Thalahrith,
Sthanarohitha
Continuous bleeding,blood
resembles the water in which meat
has been washed & more over the
blood is thin, pandu, loss function
of sense organs, causes immediate
death
Asthi Marma 08 Kateekataruna, Nithamba,
Amsaphalaka, Shankha
Discharge of clear fluid mixed with
majja & associated with
intermittent pain
Snayu Marma 23 Koorcha, Koorchasira, Kshipra,
Ani, Vasthi, Amsa, Apanga,
Utkshepa
Ayama, Akshepaka, Sthamba,
severe pain and inability to ride, sit
etc, distortions or even death
Dhamanee
Marma
09 Guda, Apasthamba, Vithura,
Sringataka
The blood which is frothy and
warm flows out with sound &
person become unconsious
Sira Marma 37 Urvi, Lohithaksha, Vidapa,
Kakshadhara, Nabhi, Hrith
Sthanamoola, Apalapa, Neela,
Manya, Mathruka, Phana,
Sthapani, Parshwa Sandhi,
Brihathi
Blood which is thick flows out
continuous & in large quantity,
which leads to Trit, Bhrama,
Shwasa, Moha, Hidhma & even
death
Sandhi Marma
20
Gulpha, J anu, Manibandha,
Koorpara, Krikatika, Kukundara,
Avatha, Seemantha, Adipa
The site of injury feels as though
full of thorns, even after healing of
the wound there is shortening of
arm, lameness decrease of strength
& movement, emaciation of body
and swelling of the joint
Review of Marma
FIG.4 MARMAS OF VENTRAL SURFACE OF FOOT
Review of Marma
Table No. 08: Showing prognostic classifications of Marmas based upon Trigunas
& Panchamahabhutas.
1
Prognostic
classification
No Marmas Included Trigunas Bhutas Prognosis/Viddha
Lakshana
Sadyapranah
ara
19 Nabhi, Shanka,
Adhipathi, Apana,
Hridaya, Sringataka,
Mathruka & vasthi
Rajas &
Satva
Agni
Immediate death within 7
days.
When injured there will be
sudden Depletion of Agni
Guna
Kalantarapra
nahara
33 Apasthamba,
Talahrith, Parshwa
Sandhi, Kateeka
Taruna, Seemantha,
Sthanamoola,
Indravasthy,
Kshipra, Apalapa,
Brihathi, Nithamba,
Sthana Rohita
Rajas &
Thamas
Agni +
J ala
Death within 14 days of
injury.
When injured there will be
sudden Depletion of Agni
Guna followed by gradual
depletion of somaguna
Visalyaghna 03 Utkshepa, Sthapani Rajas Vayu Vayu escapes when shalya is
removed and result in death.
Vayu, Mamsa, Vasa, Majja
& Masthulunga gets dried
up, shwasa, kasa develops &
destroys the life of person
Vaikalyakara 44
Phana, Apanga,
Vidura, Neela,
Manya, Krikatika,
Amsa, Amsaphala,
Avartha, Vitapa,
Urvi Kukundara,
J anu, Lohithaksha,
Ani, Kakshadhara,
Koorcha &
Koorpara
Thamas Soma
Sthirathvam & shaithyam of
soma guna result in prana-
valambanam and results in
deformity.
After injury here Soma Guna
supports Prana by sheeta &
sthira gunas
Rujakara 08 Koorchasira,
Gulpha &
Manibandha
Rajo
bahulya
Agni +
Vayu
Any injury results in pain
(Agni is Ashukari & Vayu
produces pain)
Review of Marma
Chikitsa:
Lakshanika chikitsa according to marma viddha lakshanas.
Vata vyadhi chikitsa
J udicial selection of Shasti upakrama, for vranopachara.
Review of Acupuncture
Acupuncture (from Latin Acus means Needle & Pungere means To Prick)
refers to a technique of inserting and manipulating fine filiform needles into specific
points on the body with the aim of relieving pain and for the therapeutic purposes.
According to traditional Chinese acupuncture theory, these acupuncture points lies
along the Meridians, which Qi, the vital energy flows.The earliest written record of
acupuncture is the Chinese text Shiji (, English: Records of the Grand Historian)
with elaboration of its history in the second century BC medical text Huangdi Neijing
(, English: Yellow Emperor's Inner Canon). Different variations of
acupuncture are practiced and taught throughout the world.
History
Antiquity
Acupuncture's origins in China are uncertain. One explanation is that some soldiers
wounded in battle by arrows were cured of chronic afflictions that were otherwise
untreated, and there are variations on this idea. In China, the practice of acupuncture
can perhaps be traced as far back as the Stone Age, with the Bian shi, or sharpened
stones. In 1963 a bian stone was found in Duolun County, Inner Mongolia, China
pushing the origins of acupuncture into the Neolithic age. There are evidences of
needles made of fish bone and stone found in Korea, dating approximately to 3000
BC. Hieroglyphs and pictographs have been found dating from the Shang Dynasty
(1600-1100 BC) which suggest that acupuncture was practiced along with
moxibustion.
Review of Acupuncture
Despite improvements in metallurgy over centuries, it was not until the 2nd century
BC during the Han Dynasty that stone and bone needles were replaced with metal.
The earliest records of acupuncture is in the Shiji (, in English, Records of the
Grand Historian) with references in later medical texts that are equivocal, but could
be interpreted as discussing acupuncture. The earliest Chinese medical text to describe
acupuncture is the Huangdi Neijing, the legendary Yellow Emperor's Classic of
Internal Medicine (History of Acupuncture) which was compiled around 305204
B.C.
The Huangdi Neijing does not distinguish between acupuncture and moxibustion and
gives the same indication for both treatments. The Mawangdui texts, which also date
from the second century BC (though antedating both the Shiji and Huangdi Neijing),
mention the use of pointed stones to open abscesses, and moxibustion but not
acupuncture. However, by the second century BC, acupuncture replaced moxibustion
as the primary treatment of systemic conditions.
In Europe, examinations of the 5,000-year-old mummified body of tzi the Iceman
have identified 15 groups of tattoos on his body, some of which are located on what
are now seen as contemporary acupuncture points. This has been cited as evidence
that practices similar to acupuncture may have been practiced elsewhere in Eurasia
during the early Bronze Age.
Review of Acupuncture
Middle history
Around ninety works on acupuncture were written in China between the Han Dynasty
and the Song Dynasty, and the Emperor Renzong of Song, in 1023, ordered the
production of a bronze statuette depicting the meridians and acupuncture points then
in use. However, after the end of the Song Dynasty, acupuncture and its practitioners
began to be seen as a technical rather than scholarly profession. It became rarer in the
succeeding centuries, supplanted by medications and became associated with the less
prestigious practices of shamanism, midwifery and moxibustion.
Portuguese missionaries in the 16th century were among the first to bring reports of
acupuncture to the West. J acob de Bondt, a Danish surgeon travelling in Asia,
described the practice in both J apan and J ava. However, in China itself the practice
was increasingly associated with the lower-classes and illiterate practitioners.
The first European text on acupuncture was written by Willem ten Rhijne, a Dutch
physician who studied the practice for two years in J apan. It consisted of an essay in a
1683 medical text on arthritis; Europeans were also at the time becoming more
interested in moxibustion, which ten Rhijne also wrote about. In 1757 the physician
Xu Daqun described the further decline of acupuncture, saying it was a lost art, with
few experts to instruct; its decline was attributed in part to the popularity of
prescriptions and medications, as well as its association with the lower classes.
In 1822, an edict from the Chinese Emperor banned the practice and teaching of
acupuncture within the Imperial Academy of Medicine outright, as unfit for practice
Review of Acupuncture
by gentlemen-scholars. At this point, acupuncture was still cited in Europe with both
skepticism and praise, with little study and only a small amount of experimentation.
Modern era
In the early years after the Chinese Civil War, Chinese Communist Party leaders
ridiculed traditional Chinese medicine, including acupuncture, as superstitious,
irrational and backward, claiming that it conflicted with the Party's dedication to
science as the way of progress. Communist Party Chairman Mao Zedong later
reversed this position, saying that "Chinese medicine and pharmacology is a great
treasure house and efforts should be made to explore them and raise them to a higher
level."
Acupuncture gained attention in the United States when President Richard Nixon
visited China in 1972. During one part of the visit, the delegation was shown a patient
undergoing major surgery while fully awake, ostensibly receiving acupuncture rather
than anaesthesia. Later it was found that the patients selected for the surgery had both
a high pain tolerance and received heavy indoctrination before the operation; these
demonstration cases were also frequently receiving morphine surreptitiously through
an intravenous drip that observers were told contained only fluids and nutrients.
The greatest exposure in the West came when New York Times reporter J ames
Reston, who accompanied Nixon during the visit, received acupuncture in China for
post-operative pain after undergoing an emergency appendectomy under standard
anaesthesia. Reston was so impressed with the pain relief he experienced from the
procedure that he wrote about acupuncture in The New York Times upon returning to
Review of Acupuncture
the United States. In 1973 the American Internal Revenue Service allowed
acupuncture to be deducted as a medical expense.
Traditional theory
Needles being inserted into a patient's skin.
Traditional Chinese medicine
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is based on a pre-scientific paradigm of
medicine that developed over several thousand years and involves concepts that have
no counterpart within contemporary medicine. In TCM, the body is treated as a whole
that is composed of several "systems of function" known as the zang-fu (). These
systems are named after specific organs, though the systems and organs are not
directly associated.
The zang systems are associated with the solid, yin organs such as the liver while the
fu systems are associated with the hollow yang organs such as the intestines. Health is
explained as a state of balance between the yin and yang, with disease ascribed to
either of these forces being unbalanced, blocked or stagnant.
The yang force is the immaterial qi, a concept that is roughly translated as "vital
energy". The yin counterpart is Blood, which is linked to but not identical with
physical blood, and capitalized to distinguish the two. TCM uses a variety of
Review of Acupuncture
though only the latter two (corresponding to the anterior and posterior sagittal plane of
the torso respectively) are needled. The remaining six qi jing ba mai are manipulated
by needling points on the twelve main meridians.
Normally qi is described as flowing through each channel in a continuous circuit. In
addition, each channel has a specific aspect and occupies two hours of the "Chinese
clock".
The zang-fu are divided into yin and yang channels, with three of each type located on
each limb. Qi is believed to move in a circuit through the body, travelling both
superficially and deeply. The external pathways correspond to the acupuncture points
shown on an acupuncture chart while the deep pathways correspond to where a
channel enters the bodily cavity related to each organ.
The three yin channels of the hand (Lung, Pericardium, and Heart) begin on the chest
and travel along the inner surface of the arm to the hand. The three yang channels of
the hand (Large Intestine, San Jiao, and Small Intestine) begin on the hand and travel
along the outer surface of the arm to the head. The three yin channels of the foot
(Spleen, Liver, and Kidney) begin on the foot and travel along the inner surface of the
leg to the chest or flank.
Review of Acupuncture
FIG.5 MERIDIANS & ACUPUNCTURE POINTS OF UPPER LIMB
Review of Acupuncture
FIG.6 MERIDIANS & ACUPUNCTURE POINTS OF LOWER LIMB
FIG.7 LUNG MERIDIAN
Review of Acupuncture
The three yang channels of the foot (Stomach, Gallbladder, and Urinary Bladder)
begin on the face, in the region of the eye, and travel down the body and along the
outer surface of the leg to the foot. Each channel is also associated with a yin or yang
aspect, either "absolute" (jue-), "lesser" (shao-), "greater" (tai-) or "brightness" (-
ming).
FIG.8 STOMACH CHANNEL
Review of Acupuncture
A standard teaching text comments on the nature and relationship of meridians (or
channels) and the Zang Fu organs:
The theory of the channels is interrelated with the theory of the Organs. Traditionally,
the internal Organs have never been regarded as independent anatomical entities.
Rather, attention has cantered upon the functional and pathological interrelationships
between the channel network and the Organs. So close is this identification that each
of the twelve traditional Primary channels bears the name of one or another of the
vital Organs. In the clinic, the entire framework of diagnostics, therapeutics and point
selection is based upon the theoretical framework of the channels. "It is because of the
twelve Primary channels that people live, that disease is formed, that people are
treated and disease arises." [(Spiritual Axis, chapter 12)]. From the beginning,
however, we should recognize that, like other aspects of traditional medicine, channel
theory reflects the limitations in the level of scientific development at the time of its
formation, and is therefore tainted with the philosophical idealism and metaphysics of
its day. That which has continuing clinical value needs to be reexamined through
practice and research to determine its true nature.
The meridians are part of the controversy in the efforts to reconcile acupuncture with
conventional medicine. The National Institutes of Health 1997 consensus development
statement on acupuncture stated that acupuncture points, Qi, the meridian system and
related theories play an important role in the use of acupuncture, but are difficult to
relate to a contemporary understanding of the body. Chinese medicine forbade
dissection, and as a result the understanding of how the body functioned was based on
a system that related to the world around the body rather than its internal structures.
Review of Acupuncture
The 365 "divisions" of the body were based on the number of days in a year, and the
twelve meridians proposed in the TCM system are thought to be based on the twelve
major rivers that run through China. However, these ancient traditions of Qi and
meridians have no counterpart in modern studies of chemistry, biology and physics
and to date scientists have been unable to find evidence that supports their existence.
Traditional diagnosis
The acupuncturist decides which points to treat by observing and questioning the
patient in order to make a diagnosis according to the tradition which he or she utilizes.
In TCM, there are four diagnostic methods: inspection, auscultation and olfaction,
inquiring, and palpation.
Inspection focuses on the face and particularly on the tongue, including
analysis of the tongue size, shape, tension, color and coating, and the absence
or presence of teeth marks around the edge.
Auscultation and olfaction refer, respectively, to listening for particular sounds
(such as wheezing) and attending to body odor.
Inquiring focuses on the "seven inquiries", which are: chills and fever;
perspiration; appetite, thirst and taste; defecation and urination; pain; sleep;
and menses and leukorrhea.
Palpation includes feeling the body for tender "ashi" points, and palpation of
the left and right radial pulses at two levels of pressure (superficial and deep)
and three positions Cun, Guan, Chi (immediately proximal to the wrist crease,
and one and two fingers' breadth proximally, usually palpated with the index,
middle and ring fingers).
Review of Acupuncture
Duality:
In both TCM & Sankhya the first step of manifestation of the fundamental
wholeness or unity is duality.
In TCM the unity expresses as Yin and Yang, which arise together and are
eternally and co-equally paired in every aspect of creation. Together they are
the Supreme Ultimate, Tai J i. Yin and Yang co-exist;one cannot exist without
Comparison of TCM & Ayurveda
While Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas are considered to be maha gunas, Ayurveda
also recognizes twenty gunas (10 pairs of opposites) that are directly parallel
to the commonly accepted qualities of Yin and Yang in TCM.
E.g. Vata dosha is cold, light, mobile, clear, subtle, rough and dry>Pitta dosha
is hot, sharp, light, liquid, oily, and spreading. Kapha dosha is heavy, dull,
cold, dense, stable, cloudy, soft, gross, smooth and oily.
Therefore, Vata and Pitta are predominantly yang in nature, while Kapha is
yin.
FIG.9 GUNAS & THEIR RELATIONSHIP WITH YIN/YANG
Comparison of TCM & Ayurveda
Qi and Prana:
Qi and Prana are virtually equivalent. Both represent energy, the vital life
force responsible for the animation of every organism and the life of
everything in the universe. Without them, life cannot exist and death is
inevitable.
Qi is generated from the movement of unity into duality.
Prana is the energy that flows through creation from Prakruti to Mahad to
Buddhi, to Ahankara and lastly in to three gunas, in to the organic and
inorganic universe.
Comparison of TCM & Ayurveda
Within the body, both flow through the subtle energy pathways termed
meridians in TCM and Nadis in Ayurveda.
Ayurveda considers prana not only as energy but also as the flow of
intelligence and awareness. Prana also exists in conjunction ojas, and tejas
forming a trinity within the microcosm of the body and universe. In the body
prana is cellular awareness, tejas is cellular digestion and intelligence and ojas
is equated with cellular immunity.
The TCM equivalent is Qi (energy) corresponds to Prana, Shen (spirit) with
tejas and J ing (essence) with ojas. They are called the three treasures.
TCM also emphasizes the functional relationship of qi and blood. Qi is yang in
nature and blood is yin. Blood is viewed as mother of qi because of its
nourishing nature. Qi is called commander of blood, because it is thought to
lead blood through the channels.
In Ayurveda, blood is called rakta and it is intimately associated with prana in
manner similar to qi and blood, traditionaly expressed as prana raktanu
dhavati, prana moves with the blood.
The Five Elements:
Essential to both TCM and Ayurveda are the five elements or organizing
principles that support life when in balance and create disease when
imbalanced.
Comparison of TCM & Ayurveda
The five elements do not overlap precisely. Fire, Earth and Water are common
to both systems while the remaining two elements differ. Sankhya system
includes Space & Air while TCM has Wood and Metal.
The difference is not great as metal has many attributes similar to air and vata
dosha and wood shares common attributes with fire and pitta dosha, because it
carries the hidden potential of fire within.
Space from the sankhya system does not have a direct correspondence in TCM
but it is implied there as the space within which the other elements exist and
interact.
In TCM the elements nourish and regulate each other in a cyclical manner.
In contrast, the Ayurvedic five elements arise from a linear, hierarchical
progression where one element generates the next in natural order.
Perhaps the greatest difference is the role the five elements play in each
system.
In TCM, the structural progression from Tao or Wu through Yin and Yang
stops with the five elements.
In Ayurveda, the five elements are not the end point, but from their
combination emerge three doshas, the cornerstone of its conceptual
framework.
Thus In Ayurveda the five elements are not given the same importance as in
TCM, as three doshas play more prominent role in Ayurveda.
Space and Air form Vata dosha, Fire and Water form pitta dosha and water
and Earth constitute kapha dosha. These three doshas are governing factors for
diagnosis and treatment.
Comparison of TCM & Ayurveda
J ust as the TCM five elements have a controlling cycle that maintains self-
regulating balance, the three doshas continuously adjust and re-adjust to
maintain equilibrium.
In both systems, when an element or dosha becomes excessive or deficient,
balance is disrupted leading to specific symptomatology and pathology.
Comparison of TCM & Ayurveda
Individual Constitution:
De is the Chinese term for individual constitution, which is typically expressed
in terms of five elements. A person may be predominantly fire, manifesting as
energetic, robust, hot tempered, while a person with predominantly earth will
be good natured, jovial, grounded, stable and possibly stubborn.
These constitutional types are discussed in modern interpretations of TCM but
are not mentioned in the ancient texts.
In Ayurveda, an individuals constitution is predominantly vata, pitta, kapha
or combination of three doshas.
In Ayurveda, the prakruti is considered to have, in addition to basic physical,
doshic combination, a karmic and genetic component and a mental component
In addition vikruti also plays an important part in individuals unique
composition.
In TCM, health is the balance of yin and yang in the body. From energetic
view point, health is an abundance of qi that flows smoothly throughout the
network of meridians and related organs. Reflecting the intricate relation of
microcosm and macrocosm, health is viewed as harmony between the inner
and outer world, and between the individual and nature.
Disease is disruption of balance between yin, yang and qi
When doshas, dhatus and malas are in proper functional relationship, along
with a balance on the cellular level of ojas, tejas and prana, there is perfect
Comparison of TCM & Ayurveda
FIG.10.Anterior View Of Marma & Acupuncture Point
Comparison of TCM & Ayurveda
Fig.11 Posterior View of Marma & Acupuncture Points.
Comparison of TCM & Ayurveda
Fig.12 Lateral View of Marma & Acupuncture Points
Comparison of TCM & Ayurveda
Conclusion
In conclusion, Ayurveda and TCM show striking similarities in philosophy,
inclusion of five element model, related concept of both health and disease.
Both reflect a holistic approach involving mind, body and spirit. Despite their
differences, each system presents an integral philosophical and medical model
clearly demonstrating the connection between healths and living in balance,
in harmony with nature.
Most notably both traditions utilize the energy points as doorways to maintain
health and harmony.
Marma is both structural & functional unit, where as acupuncture point is
only functional.
In one Marma Sthana there may be more than 2 or 3 acupuncture points of
different meridian.
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Janu Sandhigata Vata
Janu:
Utpatti: The word Janu is derived from root jan
4(p.451)
means knee
Nirukti:
|||||u+|||
4(p.531)
means that which joins the Uru and Jangha is
known as Janu
The word Sandhigata Vata comprises of three words, viz. Sandhi, Gata and Vata.
Sandhi
- Sandhi is a word of masculine gender. Sandhi is derived from root dha
which when prefixed by sam and suffixed by ki gives rise to word Sandhi
4(p.240)
.
Dictionary meaning: Union, junction, combination, a joint.
Gata - Gata word exists in all the three genders and it is derived from Gam dhathu
and Ktin pratyaya. ||l| |||l| ||l| ||
4(p.298)
- That which has went or
reached.
Vata : - Vata is a word of masculine gender. The word is coined from Vaa dhathu
and Ktin pratyaya. Vata is derived from || |l| |||||
4(p.325)
i.e. gamana-
movement, to move and gandhana pressure.
Meaning: Vata means wind/air, one of the three humours of the body.
Thus, collectively the Janu Sandhigatavata means the disease resulting from
the settling of vitiated Vata dosha in Janu Sandhi (Knee joint).
The word Osteoarthritis is a combination of three words. Osteon,
arthron and itis respectively means bone, joint and inflammation. The word
mening is inflammation to the bony joint.
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Sandhigata Vata
Sandhigata Vata is one among the Vata vyadhis which is described as a
separate clinical entity. It falls under various gatavata vyadhis caused by localization
of kupita Vata dosha in theasthi sandhis.
HISTORICAL REVIEW OF SANDHIGATA VATA:
VEDIC PERIOD:
Earliest available record regarding the disease and its treatment is in Vedas. In
Atharva Veda 6
th
chapter we can find a quotation which describes a disease of sandhis
Destroy every balasa, which is seated in the limbs and in the joints, the in-dwelling
one, which loosens the bones and the joints and afflicts the heart. A.v.6/14/1
SAMHITA PERIODS:
Charaka Samhita:
Description of Sandhigata Vata as a separate clinical entity is available in
Vata vyadhi Chikista Adhyaya of Chikitsa Sthana. However Charaka has not
mentioned any specific line of treatment for this condition.
2(chi.ch.28.sl37)
Sushrutha samhita:
Signs and symptoms have beeen described in Nidana sthana and separate line
of Chikitsa has been explained in Chikitsa sthana.
1(ni.ch.1.sl.28)
Harita Samhita:
Though no separate description of the disease is available line of treatment has
been explained under Vata Vyadhi Chikitsa.
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Ashtanga Sangraha and Ashtanga Hridaya:
Both the books have followed Charaka while describing the lakshana of
Sandhigata Vata and Sushrutas version while describing the chikitsa
aspect.
3(ni.ch.15.sl.12)
Madhava Nidana:
Signs and symptoms have been explained under Vatavyadhi chikitsa and for
the first time he has added Atopa as a symptom.
10(ni.ch.22.sl.21)
Chakradatta and Bhaishajya Ratnavali:
Both these books have explained the line of treatment under Vata vyadhi
chikitsa which is akin to Sushrutas description.
5(ch.22.sl.9)
Bhavaprakasha and Yogaratnakara:
The description is same as in Sushrutha Samhita, both in Nidana as well as
chikitsa aspects.
7(ch.23.sl.258-259)
Sandhi Shareera:
Here an attempt has been made to collect all the scattered references
pertaining to functional anatomy of Sandhis as described in Ayurvedic literatures
under various circumstances.
Dalhana commenting on sandhis opines it as Asthi sandhi
1(sha.ch.5.sl.28)
Table.No.10: Showing Number of Sandhis according to different texts:
Text Name CA. SU. A.S. A.H. KS.
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No. of Sandhis 200 210 210 210 381
Classification of Sandhis:
1(sha.ch.5.sl.24.p.366)
Based on mobility Sushrutha has classified Sandhis broadly into
Chestavanta Sandhi
Sthira Sandhi
The sandhis in shakha, hanu and kati are included under Chestavanta
Sandhis, which may be alpa chesta or bahu chesta; the remaining Sandhis are
included under Sthira Sandhis.
Table No: 11 showing the sites of different Sandhis
1(sha.ch.5.sl.27)
Sl.
Name of
Sandhis
Type and site
1
Kora
(resembles a bud)
{Hinge joint}
These are freely movable joints,
anguli (interphalangeal joints),
manibandha (wrist), gulpha (ankle), janu (knee) and kurpara
(elbow) come under this variety
2
Ulukhala
(Ball and socket )
This type of sandhi performs wide range of actions (bahu
chesta), seen in kaksha (shoulder), vankshana
( hip) and danta (alveolar sockets and teeth)
3
Samudga
(lid and box
Shape)
This variety has only slight movements (alpa chesta),
Amsapeetha (sternoclavicular),
Guda (sacrococcygeal),
bhaga (symphysis pubis)
and nitamba (lumbosacral)
4
Pratara
(floating)
This type of joint is formed by bones having symmetrical
surface.These joints are slightly movable, Greeva and prishta
sandhis (intervertebral joints) come under this variety
5
Tunnasevani
(sutural joints)
In this variety the connection between the bone and the joint is
in zigzag fashion. It is seen in Shira, kati & kapala. This is
included under sthira type of joints
6 Vayasatunda
It resembles beak of crow. Hanusandhi is an example for this
type of joint
7
Mandala
(rounded)
It is circular in shape and made up of Tarunastis. Kantha
(tracheal rings) comes under this type of joint
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8
Sankhaavarta
(Conch shaped)
Present in Shrothra (cochlea )
Mere union of two or more Asthis is not sufficient to form a Sandhi. It requires
other sturcures like Snayu, Kandara, pesi etc which connect the Asthis to one another
and give strength to the Sandhi.
Asthi: Asthi is the main component of a Sandhi. Dharana is the prime function of
Asthi.
1(su.ch.11.sl.4)
. Asthi is the ashraya dhatu for Vata dosha, as a rule the vriddha
dosha causes vriddhi of the ashraya dhatu, unlike others Vata vruddhi causes Asthi
kshaya and Vata kshaya causes Asthi vriddhi.
1(su.ch.11.sl.26-28)
Vyana Vata: - Vyana Vata is responsible for all types of motor functions, namely
prasarana, akunchana, vinamana, unnamana and tiryag. It resides in all types of
Sandhis and hridaya and is responsible for movement of rasa etc dhatus.
1(ni.ch.1.sl.13)
Janu sandhi is kora variety of Sandhi.
It is made up of
1 Janu kapalikasthi (kapala type of asthi)
upper part of 2 Janghasthis
lower part of 1 Urunalakasthi
Snayu and Kandara:
Snayus are the structures which bind the Asthi, Mamsa and Medas together.
Pratanani variety of Snayu is present in Sandhis and the large numbers of Snayus
which bind sandhis tightly are responsible for bearing the body weight. There are 10
Snayus in Janu sandhi.
Kandara is a varity of Snayu which is round or cylindrical in shape. It is responsible
for prasarana and akunchana of bodily parts.
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Shleshmadhara kala: Kala is a structure located in between dhatu and ashaya.
Kala contains kleda and it is described as dhatu rasa vishesha by Vagbhata.
Sleshmadhara kala is fourth Kala which resides in all the joints. J oints function
properly by the support of kapha as wheel moves on well by lubricating the axis. It is
responsible for proper alignment and movements of all joints.
Shleshaka kapha: Shleshaka kapha is situated in all sandhis. It binds the joints
firmly, protects their articulaton and opposes their seperation and disunion.
Peshi: Peshi imparts strength to the different structures of the body like Sira, Snayu,
Asthi parva and Sandhis by enveloping them. Five Peshsi are present in janu sandhi.
Siras and Dhamanis:
The Kaphavaha siras carrying prakrita Kapha, maintains the sandhi, ensures
its sthirata, increases its bala etc. One of the functions of Vatavaha siras is pancha
cheshta such as Prasarna, Akunchana etc. the Raktavaha siras does dhatu purana
brings about sthirata and does poshana. Asthi is one of the dhatus; hence these
functions are applicable for Asthi dhatu poshana also.
The Sparshavaha dhamanis are spread in the upward direction and these have
the function of carrying the sparsha jnana. The sparsha may be sukhakara or
dukhakara.
Janu Sandhi is considered as a Sandhi marma and grouped under
Vaikalyakara marma,
injuries to this leads to khanjata (limping).
Measurement of Janu: Lenghth 3 angulas and circumference 16 angulas
Knee Joint
The knee joint is the largest and the most complex joint of the body. The
complexity is the result of fusion of three joints in one. It is formed by fusion of the
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lateral femorotibial, medial femorotibial, and femoropatellar joints. It is a compound
synovial joint, incorporating two condylar joints between the condyles of the femur
and tibia, and one saddle joint between the femur and the patella.
Articular surfaces: The knee joint is formed by (1) The condyles of the femur,
(2) The condyles of tibia; and (3) The patella. The femoral condyles articulate with
the tibial condyles below and behind, and with the patella in front.
Fibrous (Articular) capsule: The fibrous capsule is very thin, and is deficient
anteriorly, where it is replaced by the quadriceps femoris, the patella and the
ligamentum patellae.
Ligaments: The knee joint is supported by seven ligaments. They are
(1) Ligamentum Patellae,
(2) Tibial Collateral Ligament,
(3) Fibular Collateral Ligament,
(4) Oblique Popliteal ligament,
(5) Arcuate Popliteal Ligament,
(6) Anterior Cruciate Ligament,
(7) Posterior Cruciate Ligament.
Menisci (Semilunar Cartilage): The menisci are two fibrocartilaginous discs. They
are shaped like crescents. They are (1) Medial meniscus, (2) Lateral meniscus.
Functions of Menisci:
(1) They help to make the articular surfaces more congregate.
(2) The menisci serve as shock absorbers.
(3) They help to lubricate the joint cavity
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(4) Because of their nerve supply; they also have a sensory function. They give rise
to proprioceptive impulses.
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Table No. 12 showing the muscles producing movements of the Knee joint
Blood Supply:
Five genicular branches of the popliteal artery.
The descending genicular branch of the femoral artery.
The descending branch of the lateral circumflex femoral artery.
Recurrent branches of the anterior tibial artery.
The circumflex fibular branch of the post-tibial artery.
Nerve Supply:
Femoral nerve: - Through its branches to the vasti, especially the vastus medialis.
Sciatic nerve: - Through the genicular branches of the tibial and common peronial
Nerve.
Obturator nerve:-Through its posterior division
Sl.
No.
Movement
Principle
Muscles
Accessory
Muscles
1 Flexion
Biceps femoris,
Semitendinosus
Semimembranosus
Gracilis, Sartorius
Popliteus,
Gastrocnemius
2 Extension Quadriceps femoris Tensor fascia latae
3
Medial
rotation of
flexed leg
Popliteus, Semitendinosus
Semimembranosus
Sartorius, Gracilis
4
Lateral
rotation of
flexed leg
Biceps femoris
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Synovial fluid: The surfaces of articular cartilage are separated by a space filled with
synovial fluid, a viscous liquid that lubricates the joint. Synovial fluid is as ultra
filtrate of plasma into which synovial cells secrete hyaluronan and proteoglycans.
NIDANA
Nidana can be classified under various headings with different views. Among
them one classification is Sannikrishta and Viprakrishta Karana. Here, with the
complimentary references the Nidanas of Sandhigatavata is classified on this basis.
Sannikrishta Hetu: Ativyayama, Abhighata, Marmaghata, Bharaharana,
Sheeghrayana, Pradhavana, Atisankshobha.
Viprakrushta Hetu:
Rasa Kashaya, Katu, Tikta
Guna Rooksha, Sheeta, Laghu
Dravya Mudga, Koradusha, Nivara, Shyamaka, Uddalaka, Masura, Kalaya,
Adaki, Harenu, Shushkashaka, Vallura, Varaka.
Aharakrama Alpahara, Vishamashana, Adhyashana, Pramitashana
Manasika Chinta, Shoka, Krodha, Bhaya
Viharaja Atijagarana, Vishamopacara, Ativyavaya, Shrama, Divaswapna,
Vegasandharana, Atyucchabhashana, Dhatu Kshaya.
The nidanas of Vatavyadhi/ Vata prakopaka karanas are listed under the following
headings 1. Aharaja, 2.Viharaja, 3.Manasika, 4.Anya.
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Table No. 13 showing the Aharaja Nidana:
Sl.
No
Nidana CA SU AS AH MN BP YR
1 Rooksha Bhojana + + + + + + +
2 Laghu Bhojana + + + - + + +
3 Sheetanna + + + - + - +
4 Alpa Bhojana + - - + + - +
5 Abhojana + + - - + + +
6 Pramita Bhojana - - + + - - -
7 Vishama Bhojana - + - - - - -
8 Ama + - - - + + +
9 Adhyashana - + - - - - -
10 Vishtambhi Ahara - - + - - - -
11 Viruddha Ahara - - + - - - -
12 Shushka shaka - + - - - - -
13 Trushitashana - - + - - - -
14 Kshudhitambupana - - + - - - -
15 Tikta-Katu-Kashaya rasa - + + + - + -
16
Vallura-varaka-uddalaka-koradusha-
shyamaka-nivara-mudga-masura-
adhaki-harenu-kalaya-nishpava
- + - - - - -
17
Katruna-dhanya-kalaya-chanaka-
karira-tumba-kalinga-chirbhita-bisa-
shaluka-jambu-tinduka
- - + - - - -
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Table No. 14 showing the Viharaja Nidana:
Sl. No Nidana CA SU AS AH MN BP YR
1 Ati vyayama + + + + + + +
2 Ati prajagara + + + + + + +
3 Atyadhva + + + - + - +
4 Ati vyavaya + + + + + + +
5 Gaja-ashva-ushtra-sheeghrayana + + + - + - +
6 Vegadharana + + + + + + +
7 Abhighata + + + - + + +
8 Dukha shayya + - - - + - +
9 Dukha asana + - - - + - +
10 Plavana + + - - + - +
11 Prapatana + + - - + - +
12 Pradhavana - + - - - - -
13 Bharaharana - + - - - - -
14 Vega udheerana - - + + - - -
15 Atyuccha bhashana - - - + - - -
16 Prapeedana - + - - - - -
17 Pratarana - + - + - - -
18 Divaswapna + - - - + - +
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Manasika Nidana: Psychological factors like Chinta, Shoka, Bhaya, Krodha etc are
the aggravating factors of Vata. As Vata is the controller of the manas, any affliction
to Manas disturbes the Vata dosha.
Table No. 15 showing the Manasika Nidana
Sl. No Nidana CA SU AS AH MN BP YR
1 Chinta + - - + + + +
2 Shoka + - + + + + +
3 Bhaya + - + - + + +
4 Krodha + - - - + - +
Anya Nidana: Panchakarma apacharas like Atidoshasravana, Atiraktamokshana,
Atiyoga of langhana, Apatamsana etc and Dhatukshayakarabhavas like
Rogakarshana, Gadakrita atimamsakshaya etc vitiate Vata. Dhatukshaya is an
important vitiating factor of Vata dosha.
Table No. 16 showing Anya Nidana:
1(su.ch.1.sl.12)
1 Vishama upachara + - - - + - +
2 Kriyatiyoga - - + + + - -
3 Ati asruka mokshana + - - - + + +
Sthoulya is another causative factor for Vata prakopa. The Meda-
avarana of Vata is the mechanism causing inter-relationship between Sthoulya
and vata vyadhis. All types of avaranas are also important vitiating factors of
Vata. Vardhakya avastha is dominate by Vata, during this period, Dhatukshaya
occurs which causes Vata prakopa.
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Living in Jangaladesha is another cause of Vata prakopa.
1(su.ch.1.sl.22)
Vata gets vitiated in the end of day and night. Vata prakriti persons are more
susceptible to Vata vikaras. Persons who are Rooksha-kashaya-katu-tikta
satmya are also more susceptible to Vata vikaras.
OSTEOARTHRITIS
EPIDEMOLOGY AND RISK FACTORS:
13(p.2036)
Osteoarthritis is the most common joint disease of humans. Among elderly,
knee OA is the leading cause of chronic disability in developed countries.
Age and Sex: Age is the most powerful risk factor for OA. Women are at
high risk than men in developing OA. Radiographic evidence of knee OA,
and especially symptomatic knee OA, is more common in woman than in
men. In a radiographic survey of women <45 years, only 2% had OA;
between the ages of 45 and 64 years, however, the prevalence was 30%, and
for those >65 years it was 68%. In males, the figures were similar, but
somewhat lower, in the older age groups.
Hereditory Factor: The relation of heredity to OA is less ambiguous. Thus,
the mother and sister of a woman with distal interphalageal (DIP) jointa OA
(Heberdens nodes) are, respectively, two to three times as likely to exhibit
OA in these joints as the mother and sister of unaffected woman.
Race Factor: Racial difference exists in both the prevalence of OA and the
pattern of joint involvement. OA is more frequent in Native Americans than
in whites. The Chinese in Hong Kong have a lower incidence of hip OA than
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in whites. Interphalangeal joint OA and especially hip OA are much less
common in South African blacks than in whites in the same population.
Whether these differences are genetic or due to differences in joint usage
related to life style or occupation is unknown.
Trauma: Major trauma and repetitive joint use are important risk factors for
OA. Anterior Cruciate ligament insufficiency or meniscus damage may lead
to knee OA. Although damage to the articular cartilage may occur at the time
of injury or subsequently, with use of affected joint, even normal cartilage
will degenerate if the joint is unstable.
Occupation: Men whose jobs required knee bending and at least moderate
physical demands had a higher rate of radiographic evidence of knee OA,
and more severe radiographic changes, than men whose jobs required neither.
Obesity: Obesity is risk factor for both knee OA and hand OA. For those in
the highest quintile for body mass index at base line examination, the relative
risk for developing knee OA in the ensuing 36 years was 1.5 for men and 2.1
for women. For severe knee OA, the relative risk rose to 1.9 for men and 3.9
for women, suggesting that obesity plays an even larger role in the etiology
of the most serious cases of knee OA.
OA is classified as primary and secondary based on causes. Primary OA is the
term used when the disorder arises from unknown or hereditary causes. Secondary
OA describes cases in which direct causes for the disorder are known. Classification
based on causes.
13(p.2037)
I. Idiopathic:
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A) Localised OA (Hands, Knee, Hip, Spine), and other single sites, e.g.
glenohumoral, acromioclavicular, tibiotalar, sacroiliac, temporomandibular.
B) Generalized which includes 3 or more of the areas listed above.
II. Secondary:
1) Trauma: a) Acute, b) Chronic (occupational, sports)
2) Congenital or developmental: (Congenital hip dislocation, slipped epiphysis,
Valgus/varus deformity, epiphysial dysplacia etc.)
3) Metabolic: Ochronosis, Hemochromatosis, Wilsons disease, Gauchres disease
4) Endocrine: Acromegaly, Hyperthyroidism, Diabetic mellitus, Obesity,
Hypothyroidism
5) Neuropathic: Charcot joints
6) Calcium deposit diseases: Calcium phosphate dehydrate deposition
POORVA ROOPA:
Avyakta or alpa lakshanas manifesting before the disease is considered as
poorva roopa In Vata vyadhi
1(ni.ch.1)
.
So symptoms such as mild shula, shotha etc
manifesting prior to the rupa can be considered as poorvaroopa in Sandhigata Vata.
ROOPA
Tabel No. 17: showing the roopa of Sandhigata Vata according to different texts:
Sl.
No.
Roopa/Lakshana C.S. S.S. A.S. A.H. M.N B.P Y.R
1 Shula - + - - + + +
2 Vata poorna druti sparsha + - + + - - -
3 Shopha - + - - - + +
4
Prasarana Akunchanayoho
savedana pravrutti
+ - + + - - -
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5 Hanti sandhin - + - - + + +
6 Atopa - - - - + - -
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SHULA: Prakupita Vata dosha is responsible for all types of shula and
there cannot be any shula without the involvement of Vata. Asthi toda
(breaking or tearing type of pain) is one of the main symptoms of Asthi
kshaya.
SHOTHA/ SHOPHA: Except Madhavakara all other acharyas have
described shotha/shopha as one of the main feature of Sandhigata Vata.
Charaka has explained that the shotha seen in Sandhigata Vata resembles
an air filled bag; this opinion is accepted by both the Vagbhatas. Though
Sushruta has explained Shopha as one of the features of Sandhigata Vata
unlike Charaka he has not specified the type of Shopha.
PRASARANA AKUNCHANAYOHO SAVEDANA PRAVRUTTI:
It means painful joint movements. It can be felt as difficulty in normal joint
movement or the pain felt on initial movements after long period of
inactivity can be compared to this which is due to the stambha or stiffness
caused due to inactivity.
HANTI SANDHIN: This can be compared to restricted joint movement
and it was first explained by Sushrutha. Different commentators have
explained this as follows:-
a) Dalhana: Explains this as absence of prasarana and akunchana of the
Sandhi i.e. absence of normal range of movement of the joint (flexion
and extension).
b) Gayadasa: Explains this as inability of the joint to move which is
similar to Dalhanas explanation.
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c) Sandhi Vishlesha and Stambha: In Madhukosha vyakhya on
Madhava Nidhana, Hanti Sandhi has been explained as Sandhi
vishlesha (weakness of joint) or Stambha (stiffness or loss of function)
of the joint.
ATOPA: Only Madhavakara has explained this feature. It has replaced
the Shopa form Sushrutas version. No specific commentary is available
for this word. Charaka while explaining the trividha pareeksha, states that
Sandhi sphutana in the anguli parva (interphalangeal joints) should be
examined under Pratyaksha pariksa.
CLINICAL FEATURES OF OSTEOARTHRITIS:
The joint pain of OA is often described as a deep ache localized to the
involved joint. Typically, it is aggravated by joint use and relieved by rest but, as the
disease progresses, it may become persistent. Nocturnal pain interfering with sleep is
seen particularly in advanced OA of hip and may be enervating. Stiffness of the
involved joint after a period of inactivity (e.g. a nights sleep or automobile ride) may
be prominent but usually lasts<20 minutes. Systemic manifestations are not a feature
of primary OA. Because articular cartilage is anueral, the joint pain in OA must arise
from other structures.
13(p.2039)
Table No. 18 showing causes of Joint pain in patients with OA
Sl. No Source of pain Mechanism
1 Synovium Inflammation
2 Subchondral bone Medullary hypertension, micro fracture
3 Osteophytes Stretching of periosteal nerve endings
4 Ligaments Stretch
5 Capsule Inflammation, distention
6 Muscle Spasm
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Clinical Signs of OA:
Restricted movement (capsular thickening, blocking by osteophytes)
Palpable, sometimes audible, coarse crepitus (rough articular surface)
Bone swelling (osteophytes) around joint margins
Deformity, usually without instability
J oint-line or periarticular tenderness
Muscle weakness, wasting
No or only mild synovitis (effusion, increased warmth)
13(p.1098)
KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS:
11(p.1098)
OA of knee may involve the medial or lateral femorotibial compartment
and/or the patellofemoral compartment. Trauma is a more important risk factor in
men and may result in unilateral OA. Most Knee OA particularly in women is
bilateral and symmetrical. OA pain is usually localized to the anterior or medial
aspect of the knee and upper tibia. Patello-femoral pain is usually worse going up and
down stairs or inclines.
11(p.2040-2041)
Local examination findings may include:
11(p.1099)
o A varus, less commonly valgus, and/or fixed flexion deformity
o J oint line and/or periarticular tenderness
o Weakness and wasting of quadriceps muscle
o Restricted flexion/extension with coarse crepitus
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o Bony swelling around knee joint
o J erky asymmetric antalgic gaitless weight bearing on the painful side
The American College of Rheumatology has established clinical criteria for
diagnosing primary osteoarthritis of the knees as follows:
14(p.796)
Knee pain and;
At least three of the following 6 criteria: 50 years of age or older, stiffness
lasting less than 30 minutes, crepitus, bony tenderness, bony enlargement, no
warmth to the touch
Laboratory and Radiographic findings:
13(p.2040)
The diagnosis of OA is usually based on clinical and radiographic features. In
the early stages, the radiograph may be normal but joint space narrowing becomes
evident as articular cartilage is lost. Other characteristic findings include subchondral
bone sclerosis, subchondral cysts, and osteophytosis. A change in the contour of the
joint, due to bony remodeling, and subluxation may be seen.
No laboratory studies are diagnostic of OA. Because primary OA is not
systemic, the erythrocyte sedimentation rate, serum chemistry determinations, blood
counts, and urinalysis are normal. Synovial fluid reveals mild leukocytosis
(<2000 WBC per micro liter), with predominance of mononuclear cells.
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Table No. 19 showing the Kellgren- Lawrence Radiographic Grading
Scale
14(p.796)
Of Osteoarthritis of Tibio-Femoral Joint:
Grade of the
Osteoarthritis
Description
0 No radiographic findings of Osteoarthritis
1 Minute osteophytes of doubtful clinical significance
2 Definite osteophytes with unimpaired joint space
3 Definite osteophytes with moderate joint space narrowing
4
Definite osteophytes with severe joint space narrowing
and subchondral sclerosis
UPASHAYA AND ANUPASHAYA:
Upashaya is judicious use of drugs, diet and practices (vihara) which results
in relief of symptoms. Upashaya is antagonistic to the cause of disease and to the
disease itself and anupashaya is that which aggravates the symptoms
.
No specific
Upashaya has been described for Sandhigata Vata in the classics. The general
Upashaya and Anupashay of Vata vyadhis can be considered here. Tailabhyanga is an
upashaya in Sandhigata Vata. The snigdha, guru and ushna gunas of taila counters
the ruksha, laghu and sheeta guna of Vata. Indulgence in laghu, ruksha ahara, and ati
vyayama etc viharas can be considered as aupashaya in Vata vyadhis.
Sadhyasadhyatva: Sandhigata Vata is one of the kevala Vata vyadhis. Vata vyadhi is
one among the Mahagadas, which are considered as difficult to treat right from the
beginning stage of the disease. Sandhigata Vata usually occurs in old age due to
dhatu kshaya as old age is dominated by Vata. Moreover Sandhigata Vata belongs to
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madhyama rogamarga vyadhis. Diseases situated in marmas and madhyama
rogamaraga are kashta sadhya vyadhis. Diseases involving the gambheera dhatus are
yapya vyadhis and in Sandhigata Vata asthi dhatu is involved which is a gambheera
dhatu. Considering all the above points Sandhigata Vata can be grouped under yapya
vyadhi,s which need regular and long term treatment.
1(ni.ch.1.sl.8)
SAMPRAPTI
It is very important to know the Samprapti or pathology before starting the
treatment. From the onset of Dosha-Dushya Dushti, till the evolution of the Vyadhi
various stages can be seen. Samprapti explains such series of pathological stages
involved.
As no special Samprapti has been explained for Sandhigata Vata the Samanya
Samprapti of Vatavyadhi can be considered as the Samprapti of Sandhigata Vata.
According to Acharya Charaka and Vagbahta, dhatu kshaya is the main cause
for Vata prakopa.This balavan (prakupita) Vata circulates through the empty
channels in the body (rikta srotas), fills them and produces sarvanga and ekanga
rogas (systemic and localized diseases). Chakrapani commenting on the word riktani
states that riktani means tuchyani (snehadi gunashunyani) i.e channels or srotasas
devoid of nutrients.
Avarana of this prakupita Vata by other doshas is the other
reason for the Vata prakopa in the absence of dhatu kshaya resulting in
disease.
6(ni.ch.15.sl.6)
That is, the above said Ahara vihara induces reduction of Snehabhava and
simultaneously produces Vatakopa due to the dhatu kshaya. Reduction of Shleshaka
kapha occurs and this allows the settling of vitiated Vata (vyana vata) in the joints
thereby gradually resulting in the manifestation of Sandhigata Vata.
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Concept of Gatavata
As the disease belongs to Gatavata group of Vata vyadhis, it will be
relevant to discuss the concept of Gatavata here. While mentioning Gatavata,
acharyas have mentioned the gatatva of dhatu, upadhatu, ashaya, avayava
etc.
160
The various terminologies used to denote this Gatavata are gate, sthithe,
avasthite, ashrite, prapte, etc. These all terminologies can imply two important
factors A) related to the gati of the vitiated Vata and B) related to the
occupation of a particular site.
Three main factors involving in the production of Sandhigata Vata are
Kopa of vyana vata, which normally controls all the movements of the body.
Kshaya of shleshaka kapha, which normally aligns the joints and maintains its
compactness.
Deterioration of Shleshmadhara kala, which lubricates the joints.
Samprapti ghatakas
01. Dosha Vata Vyana vata vridhi, and Kapha Shleshaka kapha kshaya
02. Dushya Asthi, Majja, Peshi, Snayu, Shleshmadhara kala
03. Srotas Asthivaha, Medovaha, Majjavaha, Mamsavaha
04. Agni Jatharagni, Asthidhatwagni,
05. Ama Jatharagni mandyajanya, Asthidhatwagni mandyajanya,
06. Udbhava Pakwashaya
07. Rogamarga Madhyama
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08. Adhisthana Sandhi
Pathogenesis of Osteoarthritis:
11(p.1097)
A variety of mechanical, metabolic, genetic or constitutional insults may
damage a synovial joint and trigger the need for a repair. Most often the insult
remains unclear (primary OA) but sometimes there is an obvious cause such as
trauma or ligament ruptures (secondary OA). All the joint tissues (cartilage, bone,
synovium, capsule, ligament, muscle) depend on each other for health and function.
Insult to any one of the tissue impacts on the others, resulting in a common OA
phenotype affecting the whole joint. OA process involves dynamic new tissue
production and remodeling of joint shape. Often the slow but efficient OA process
compensates for the insults, resulting in an anatomically altered but pain-free
functioning joint (compensated OA). Sometimes, however, because of either
overwhelming or chronic insult or an inherently poor repair response, it fails;
resulting in progressive tissue damage, more frequent association with symptoms, and
presentation as joint failure.
Pathological changes:
13(p.833)
Articular cartilages: The regressive changes are most marked in the weight bearing
regions of the articular cartilages. Initially, there is loss of cartilaginous matrix
(proteoglycans) resulting in progressive loss of normal chondrocytes, and at other
places, proliferation of chondrocytes forming clusters. Further progression of the
process causes loosening, flanking and fissuring of the articular cartilage resulting in
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breaking off of pieces of cartilage exposing subchondral bone. Radiologically, this
progressive loss of cartilage is apparent as narrowed joint space.
1) Bone: The denued subchondral bone appears like polished ivory. There is
death of superficial osteocytes and increased osteoclastic activity causing
rarefaction, imcrocyst formation and occasionally micro fractures of
subadjucent bone. These changes result in remodel ling of bone and changes
in the shape of joint surface leading to flattening and mushroom-like
appearance of the articular end of the bone. The margins of the joints respond
to cartilage damage by osteophytes or spur formation. These are cartilaginous
outgrowths at the joint margins which later get ossified. Osteophytes give the
appearance of lipping of the affected joint. Loosened and fragmented
osteophytes may form free joint mice or loose bodies.
2) Synovium: Initially, there are no pathological changes in the synovium but in
advanced cases there is low-grade chronic synovitis and villous hypertrophy.
There may be some amount of synovial effusion associated with chronic
synovitis.
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Vardhakya
Viharaja Nidana
Aharaja Nidana
Reduced Poshana
of Rasadhi Dhatus
Asthi Dhatu & Other Dhatu
Kshaya
Damage to
Shleshmadhara kala
Reduction of
Snehanamsha
Shleshaka
Kapha
Kshaya
Shithilata of
Snayu, Sira,
Kandara, Peshi
Khavaigunyata
of Janu Sandhi
Vata Prakopa
Sthana Samshraya of
Kupita Vata
Janu SandhigataVata
SAMPRAPTI OF JANU SANDHIGATA VATA
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CHIKITSA
The treatment of the disease is nothing but the breaking-up of the Samprapti.
Charaka has not mentioned any special line of treatment for Sandhigata Vata, but has
mentioned bahya and abhyantara snehana as the treatment for Asthi and Majjagata
Vata which can be adopted in Sandhigata Vata also. Later authors have mentioned
specific line of treatment for Sandhigata Vata with minor changes which is listed
below.
Tabel No. 20 showing the Chikitsa sutra of Sandhigata Vata according to different
texts
Sl.
No
Chikitsa CA SU A.S A.H C.D B.P Y.R B.R
1 Snehana - + + + + - +
2 Upanaha - + + + + + + +
3 Agni karma - + + - + + - +
4 Bandhana - + + - + - - +
5 Svedana - - + - - - + -
6 Raktavsechana - - + - - - - -
7 Pradeha - + - - - - -
8 Mardhana - + + - + - + +
-||||||l|||||||||l||
-|||-||l-|-|||||||||||l|||
2(chi.ch.4.sl.8.p.480)
Dalhana commenting on the word snehana explains that here snehana means
both bahya and abhyantara types of snehana should be considered. Further he
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explains atandrita as analasa i.e. continuous, means the treatment should be done
regularly for long duration.
Vridddha Vagbhata has laid stress on abhyanga. Raktavasechana is indicated
in case of tvak swapana, and it should be followed by pradeha with tila, lavana and
agara dhuma.
Bhavaprakasha has mentioned one yoga for Sandhigata Vata: Indravaruni mula,
magadhi and guda when consumed in a dose of 1 karsha cures Sandhigata Vata.
PATHYA
1(ch.23.sl.597)
Ahara
1. Rasas : - Madhura-Amla-Lavana
2. Shukadhanya : - Nava godhuma, Nava shali, Rakta shali, Shashtika shali.
3. Shimbi varg a : - Nava tila, Masha, Kulattha.
4. Shaka varga : - Patola, shigru, vartaka, lashuna.
5. Mamsa varga : - Ushtra, Go, Varaha, Mahisha, Bheka, Nakula,
Chataka, Kukkuta, Tittira, Kurma.
6. Jala varga : - Ushnajala, Shrithasheetajala, Narikelajala.
7. Dugdhavarga : - Go, Aja, Dadhi, Ghritha, Kilata, Kurchika.
8. Mutravarga : - Gomutra.
9. Madyavarga : - Dhanyamla, Sura.
10. Snehavarga : - Tilaja, Ghrita, Vasa, Majja.
Vihara
Veshtana, Trasana, Mardana, Snana, Bhushayya, etc.
APATHYA
Ahara
1. Rasa : - Katu, Tikta, Kashaya.
2. Shimbivarga : - Rajamasha, Nishpava, Mudga, Kalaya.
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3. Shukavarga : - Truna, Kangu, Koradusha, Neevara, Syamaka.
4. Phalavarga : - Jambu, Udumbura, Kramuka, Tinduka.
5. Mamsavarga : - Sushka mamsa, Kapota, Paravata.
6. Jalavarga : - Sheeta jala.
7. Ksheeravarga : - Gardabha.
Vihara
1. Manasika : - Chinta, Shoka, Bhaya.
2. Shareerika : - Jagarana, Shrama, Vyayama, Vyavaya, Chankramana,
Vegadharana etc.
Management of OA:
The American Rheumatism Association (ARA) has issued pharmacologic
guidelines for treatment of OA of the hip and knee.
(1) Arthrocentesis with corticosteroid injection can be used only for knee OA if
effusion is present.
(2) Acetaminophen can be administered, up to 4 g/d. This is the preferred initial
treatment to be given to patients with OA.
(3) Topical anti-inflammatory medications or capsaicin can be administered only for
knee OA.
(4) Low-dose nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (i.e., analgesic doses)
or nonacetylated salicylates may be indicated.
(5) Administration of full-dose NSAIDs with misoprostol, if risk factors for upper
gastrointestinal bleeding are present.
(6) Narcotic analgesic use may be indicated in cases of severe pain.
Surgical interventions for OA of the knee:
Arthroscopic lavage - Using a saline lavage to wash out the joint
J oint realignment (realignment osteotomy)
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J oint fusion (arthrodesis) - Surgically fusing the joint to eliminate motion
SUCHI VYADHA
HISTORICAL REVIEW
If we go back to the Indian medical classics, known as the Vedas, said to be written
about 7000 years ago, we find "needle therapy" [Suchi karma] mentioned there. One
volume of the Vedas, known as the Suchi Veda, translated as the "art of piercing
with a needle" was written about 3000 years ago and deals entirely with acupuncture.
Unfortunately this text is not available today
18(p.11)
. During ancient period, bamboo or
wooden Suchi needles were used for acupuncture. Sushrutha has mentioned the art
of acupuncture under Vyadhana or Bhedhana Karma (Bhedhana means to pierce or to
cut). During ancient time needles made up of wood were used, later on various metal
needles were used for this purpose. Sushruta in Sharira sthana 8 Siravyadha has
advised puncturing the channels (sira) by using needles, which are as small as vrihi
(vrihi is the outer cover of the rice grain which is pointed at both ends.
The Indians have both body acupuncture and ear acupuncture. Thus in India, an entire
system of treating every type of disease by the ear alone was [also] developed! Some
scholars believe that acupuncture probably evolved in prehistoric times out of the
modifications of the principles of Ayurveda near the snowy bleaks of the Himalayas,
where no herbs were available.
... In fact, this knowledge has already got passed to the nearby countries around India
mainly during Buddha period and got stored as in cold storage. It is not a
coincidence that almost all Buddhist countries have this knowledge and it is the Indian
fortune that the origin of this knowledge [of acupuncture] is from India (But rather
unfortunate that not many people in India know this and appreciate this fact as we sure
have a 'tradition' of forgetting our traditions! and sciences be it mantric or Vedic.
Suchi vyadha chikitsa
PROCEDURE
Suchi Vyadha is an art of Introducing delicate fine Suchi (Fine Needles) into different
sensitive points to stimulate the particular area to get the desired therapeutic effect.
In this clinical study we have used a fine silver headed acupuncture needle for suchi
vyadha. Suchi vyadha is done in and around janu marma with radius of 3 angula to
stimulate janu marma & in turn to stimulate Sandhi Avayavas present in it, so that it
helps in relieving the pain & promotes Sandhi poshana & thus helps in early repair of
Dhatu Kshayata & restores normal joint integrity.
Back Ground:
As such there is no direct reference presently available in our classics for suchi
vyadha chikitsa. Acupuncture has great role in pain management & it is world widely
accepted as an alternate system of treatment for pain management. In acupuncture
they puncture on an acupuncture point & stimulate the same to cure many diseases.
With the same principle we have tried to stimulate janu marma to manage janu
sandhigata vata. In fact the concept of Marma is well described in our classics, but its
importance in therapeutic aspect (other than Viddha Lakshana) is never mentioned &
ever used (i.e. Marma Sthana is not used to cure disease or to relieve pain). They only
say that, Marma Sthana which is a very vital point should not be injured & should be
kept intact even while doing surgeries. In this present study to first of its kind an
attempt is made to manipulate or stimulate Marma Sthana to obtain desired
therapeutic effect. In coming days this idea may form basis in curing innumerable
disease just by manipulating or stimulating Marma Sthana, which is a seat of prana or
life.
Suchi vyadha chikitsa
In this present study patient with jaanusandhi vikara is considered and Suchi Vyadha
is done with suchi on jaanu marma to relieve from jaanu shoola and other associated
symptoms. Though there is no direct reference for Vyadhana karma on Marma Sthana
& Suchi Vyadha Chikitsa (for Analgesic purpose) in our classics, with some of the
following cross references this treatment procedure is carried out.
|+|l||| +|'|| |||l||||l||
|| | u| l|2 |||+| ||
|||||||| ||| l||||| ||-|| |||
||l| ||||| ||| |7|| ||l| |||
3
(Ukch.11sl.102)
Diseases which is purely of vataja in origin like apabhahuka, vishvaachi, grudrasi etc,
in it first pricking with needle should be done, then followed by lepa with gunja phala
is applied. This type of treatment gives immediate relief.
With this reference we can consider that puncturing or suchi vedha can be done.
|+|'|| -|| -||| ||||| l|||
2
(UTch.9sl.18)
In pakshmashata they say that first the site should be pricked with needle then other
line of treatment is adopted.
Even in nilika, vyanga, keshashaata kuttana karma (pricking) with kurcha is
mentioned.
|||+| l|| ||+||7||||l
s|||l-|l||| -|||-||+'|||| -|-|||l||
1
(su.ch.25.sl.23)
Suchika Bharana Rasa
=
cd
|
= =
( ..7../-)
With fine suchi, suchika bharana rasa, is put into circulation through
suchi vyadha on Bramha Randra. With this we can say that concept of suchi
vyadha was known to our ancients.
Needle review
patient in cases of coma and high fever. The drawing of a few drops of blood from
certain acupuncture points can bring down high fever, stop convulsions and restore
consciousness in a matter of minutes without any other treatment. Finally there were
the plum blossom needles also called the seven star needles which were used to tap the
skin over acupuncture points. This was mainly used to treat skin diseases, children,
old people and patients who were afraid of needles.
These needles were in widespread use for thousands of years until the early years of
the 20th century, when the invention of stainless steel revolutionized the art of
Some acupuncturists claim that needles made from silver or gold have special
therapeutic properties. Needles made from silver and gold are expensive and so are
often re sharpened, straightened and reused. Unfortunately, the process of re
sharpening needles is laborious and time consuming and it is rarely possible to get as
sharp a point on these needles as on a stainless steel needle. In my experience needles
made from stainless steel are as effective in therapy as needles made from any other
material.
Needles made from two metals act as a thermocouple, and generate a small electric
current. So the handles of some acupuncture needles are made from metals like
copper, silver and gold with the needle itself being made from stainless steel. Needle
handles made with copper and silver get oxidized during use and storage, which
reduces their electrical conductivity making them unsuitable for electrical stimulation.
An average acupuncture needle is slightly thicker than a human hair and its insertion
is virtually painless. Many potential patients are dissuaded from trying acupuncture by
the pictures they see of acupuncture where long, thick needles are inserted into the
Needle review
patient. This has given rise to the misconception that acupuncture is painful. This
misconception also arises from the belief that acupuncture needles are similar to
injection needles. There are several fundamental differences between acupuncture
needles and hypodermic needles used for giving an injection.
Normal acupuncture needles are so thin that they cannot be seen in a picture or on
television. The needles used for demonstration are far thicker than those used for
acupuncture. As you would appreciate, a silver needle slightly thicker than a human
hair is hard to see.
An acupuncture needle is very thin, ranging from 0.16 mm to 0.38 mm in thickness,
while injection needles range from 0.6 mm to 2 mm (in blood transfusion needles).
The tip of an acupuncture needle is conical in shape, which allows it to penetrate the
tissues separating the fibres of the muscle as it enters, without causing damage.
Similarly on removing the needle the separated fibres close smoothly around the
needle, preventing bleeding.
A hypodermic needle in contrast, has a sharp edge and its insertion cuts out a small
cylinder of flesh as it enters. This fact is used for carrying out a needle biopsy to
diagnose cancer. A hypodermic needle also has a hole through which a liquid is forced
while giving the injection. Once the medicine is injected it forces the cylinder of flesh,
into the place where the injection is given releasing painful substances called
prostaglandins. The forcing of the medicine into a closed space also causes pain.
Needle review
In acupuncture, no fluid is injected into the body and as the needle does not have a
cavity in the middle; it is much thinner than a hypodermic needle. The sensation felt
when an acupuncture needle is inserted is very different from the sensation felt when a
hypodermic needle is used. In contrast to an injection, an acupuncture needle produces
its effect by altering the energy flow inside the human body.
Acupuncture needles come in various sizes and thicknesses ranging from two
millimetres to ten centimetres in length. The handles are one to three centimetres long.
The longest needles are used on fat people in areas where there is thick muscle and a
lot of fat, like the buttocks and hips. On the forehead hands and face, only the tip of
the needle is inserted. The depth of insertion of the needle varies from one millimetre
to about ten centimetres depending on the depth of the acupuncture point to be treated.
Needle review
Needle review
The Acupuncture Needles:
16(p.35-40)
In ancient China, nine different types of needles were used for acupuncture.
Although they were called needles, some of them were really in the form of small
lances, while others had a small cutting edge. One type of needle had a ball point and
was used for micro massage (acu-massage) at the acupuncture point.
The following is a description of the types of needles in common use today.
a) The filiform needles
The filiform needle comprises a handle or holder, and a shaft. The handle
may be made of copper, bronze, aluminium, silver or stainless steel. Plastic
handled disposable acupuncture needles are also now available. The shaft
nowadays is always manufactured from stainless steel (astematic steel).
The length of these needles (i.e. the length of the shaft) varies from 0.5 inch
to 8 inches or more. The calibre (diameter) may range from gauge 26 to 34.
The following table shows the standard sizes available:
Length
Inches (cuns) 0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 4.5 5.0 6.0
Millimetres 15 25 40 50 65 75 90 100 115 125 150
Diameter
Standard Wire Gauge No. 26 28 30 32 34
Millimetres 0.45 0.38 0.32 0.26 0.22
Needle review
For general use the 1.0 inch or 1.5 inch long, No.28 or 30 needles are
preferred. Gauge No. 30 (i.e. the thinner needles) are particularly
recommended for points in the eye region, in children and for conditions where
minimum stimulation is needed. The longer needles are used for areas where
the muscular mass is thick. E.g. Huantiao (G.B.30) and in puncturing-through
technique, where the needle is directed from one point through to another. The
thicker needles, Gauge No.26 & 28 are used in regions where relatively
stronger stimulation is required.
b) The embedding needles
Also called the press needle and implanted needle, they come in several
shapes, depending on their use.
i) The thumbtack type: this looks like a small thumbtack. The body of the
needle is in the form of a small circle about 3mm in diameter and its tip stands
out at right angles to the circle. It penetrates to a depth of 2-3 mm. It is used
more commonly in ear acupuncture.
ii) The fish tail type: This is similar to the thumbtack type, except that its shaft
lies at the same plane as its body. This needle is used on certain body
acupuncture points for continuous stimulation. It is inserted horizontally under
the skin, and then fixed with adhesive tape.
Both these types of needles are indicated in chronic conditions like bronchial
asthma, epilepsy & in painful condition like migraine. They may be kept in place
Needle review
for up to seven days & are therefore, useful in providing mild stimulation of an
acupuncture point between treatment sessions. In warm weather it is advisable to
change the needle in about half this time.
iii) The spherical press needle (ball bearing type): This may also be used for
the same purpose. This is becoming more popular nowadays, as it is safer
because there is no chance of damage to cartilage and infection of the ear. It
consists of a tiny stainless steel ball which is fixed on the skin at acupuncture
point with adhesive porous tape.
iv) The muscle embedding needle: these are slightly longer than the fish tail
type and are used to allay very intractable painful conditions like phantom limb
pain and the pain of secondary cancer. The muscle embedding needle is left in
situ at local painful points in the muscle (Ah-Shi point) for a few days.
c) The Plum Blossom needle
This is known as the Five Star or Seven Star needle. It is made up of 5
or 7 short filiform needles attached to a holder at the end of long handle. The
plum blossom needle is used to tap on the skin along a channel or at specific
points. It is indicated in children, in weak patients, in skin diseases and in those
who dislike puncturing.
d) The three-edged (or prismatic) needle
This has a triangular point and is used to bleed certain areas in skin
disorders, arthritis & in acute emergencies. (In modern acupuncture a syringe
& an intravenous needle are used for the same purpose).
Materials & Method
12. Churasia B.D. Human Anatomy Regional & Applied reprint 2000. New
Delhi: CPB Publishers & Distributors; 2000.
18. Dr.David Frawley, Dr. Subhash Ranade, Dr. Avinash Lele. Secrets of
Marma.1
st
ed, reprint;2005, Delhi: Choukhamba Sanskrit pratistana; pp.115.
ACUPUNTURE TREATMENT
SUCHI VYADHA CHIKITSA