My AVN Article Published
My AVN Article Published
My AVN Article Published
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SJIF Impact Factor (2023): 8.574| ISI I.F. Value: 1.241| Journal DOI: 10.36713/epra2016 ISSN: 2455-7838(Online)
EPRA International Journal of Research and Development (IJRD)
Volume: 9 | Issue: 1 | January 2024 - Peer Reviewed Journal
1
Dr. Prasan V. Joshi B.A.M.S., M.D. (Ayu), Dr. Tushar G. Jani*2
B.A.M.S., Dr. Shaik Jeelani Naaz3 B.A.M.S.
1HOD
and Professor, Department of P. G. Studies in Kayachikitsa,
Shri Vijaya Mahantesh Ayurvedic Medical College & P. G. Research Centre, Ilkal, Karnataka, India.
*23rd year P. G. Scholar, Department of P. G. Studies in Kayachikitsa,
Shri Vijaya Mahantesh Ayurvedic Medical College & P. G. Research Centre, Ilkal, Karnataka, India.
33rd year P. G. Scholar, Department of P. G. Studies in Kayachikitsa,
Shri Vijaya Mahantesh Ayurvedic Medical College & P. G. Research Centre, Ilkal, Karnataka, India.
ABSTRACT
Avascular necrosis (AVN) causes bone tissue death due to disrupted blood supply, commonly affecting the hip, knee, and should er
joints. Trauma, prolonged corticosteroid use, alcohol abuse, and specific medical conditions can trigger AVN. Conventional
treatments like medication, physiotherapy, and surgery, although effective, can be expensive with associated side effects. Ayurvedic
medicine, a centuries-old Indian system focusing on holistic well-being and dosha balance, was applied to a 31-year-old male diagnosed
with AVN in the hip joint. Despite no direct AVN - Vatarakta correlation, clinical alignment with Vata Pradhana and Asthi-
Siragata Vata was observed. Treatment involved Ayurvedic medicines, Panchakarma therapies (Virechana, Basti), and lifestyle
adjustments. Following three months of treatment, marked improvements in gait, pain, tenderness, range of movement, and overall
quality of life were reported. This case study suggests that Ayurvedic treatment can serve as a viable alternative to conventional AVN
therapies, especially in cases related to Vatarakta and Asthi-Siragata Vata imbalances. The primary aim of this study is to highlight
Ayurvedic treatment's efficacy in managing AVN.
KEY WORDS: Ayurveda, Treatment, Avascular Necrosis (AVN), Vatarakta, Asthi-Siragata Vata, Panchakarma, Virechana,
Basti.
INTRODUCTION
AVASCULAR NECROSIS (OSTEONECROSIS)
• Avascular Necrosis Overview: Avascular necrosis (osteonecrosis), resulting from ischemia, is a common condition leading to
bone death due to compromised blood supply. Commonly affected areas include the femoral head, humeral head, and femoral
condyles. Its mechanisms vary, from obscure causes to interruptions in bone blood supply induced by trauma, compression, or
thromboembolic obstruction.
• Clinical Presentation and Diagnosis: Symptoms manifest as localized pain worsened by weight-bearing. Diagnosis via MRI
reveals subchondral bone necrosis and bone marrow edema. Early X-rays may appear normal, later showing osteosclerosis and
bone deformities. Long-term consequences can include malignant tumors like osteosarcoma, malignant fibrous histiocytoma,
and fibrosarcoma in affected areas.
• Morphological Features: Pathological fractures occur due to bone infarctions, often at sites with disrupted blood supply in end-
arterial circulation. Grossly, a wedge-shaped infarct is visible in the subchondral bone beneath the joint's convex surface. 1
• Treatment and Management: No specific treatment exists; management focuses on pain control and encouraging mobility.
Interventions such as core decompression alleviate internal bone pressure through drilling and stimulate vascular growth with
implanted devices. Symptoms may spontaneously improve, but joint replacement might be necessary for persistent pain and
significant structural damage.2
❖ Case Report
• A 31-year-old male, hailing from Gangavathi, Karnataka, presented at the outpatient department (OPD) with primary
complaints of hip joint pain, walking difficulties, and painful internal rotation of the lower limb.
he sought further assistance at the Kayachikitsa department of RPK Ayurvedic Hospital in Ilkal. Upon evaluation, the
patient was diagnosed with Vatarakta and Asthi-Siragata Vata, classified as subtypes of AVN in Ayurveda.
General examination
• The patient presented with an average build and exhibited normal vital signs: a pulse rate of 78 beats per minute, a
respiratory rate of 17 breaths per minute, a blood pressure reading of 120/80 mmHg, and a body weight of 73 kg.
Personal History
• The patient reported a reduced appetite despite being on a mixed diet. Sleep disturbances were noted, and while the
frequency of urination was regular, bowel movements were irregular with unsatisfactory stools. Notably, the patient, a
professor, did not have any addictions or habits.
Ayurvedic Examination:
• The patient underwent examinations of pulse, tongue, and urine, providing additional insights into their dosha imbalances
and overall health condition. The pulse examination indicated an elevation in Vata Dosha, while the examination of the
tongue revealed a coating, suggesting the presence of toxins (Ama).
• Furthermore, the assessment considered the patient's dietary habits and lifestyle elements, including sleep routines, exercise
patterns, and stress levels. These factors were evaluated to understand their potential contributions to Dosha imbalances
and the onset of AVN.
Ashtasthana Pariksha
SN Pariksha Findings
1 Naadi Vatta – Kapha
2 Mutra 4 to 5 times/day and 1 time/night
3 Mala Constipated and feels unsatisfied.
4 Jihva Liptata (coated)
5 Shabda Prakruta (Normal)
6 Sparsha Anushnasheeta (Normal body temperature)
7 Drik Prakruta (Normal)
8 Akruti Madyama (Moderate)
Modern Examination
• Local Examination
The physical examination revealed severe and painful limitations in the right hip's range of motion, notably during
abduction and extension. Tenderness and mild temperature elevation were observed upon muscle palpation, while a limp
was evident in the patient's gait. During the straight leg raise test, hip pain emerged alongside thigh discomfort. Lower limb
neurological testing displayed normal reflexes and sensation bilaterally. A surgical scar mark was noted upon inspection,
devoid of swelling or colour changes.
Investigation
Investigation Observation
X-ray (Both hip joint) No significant Changes
CBC NAD
Urine Routine Microscopic NAD
ECG NAD
MRI of Both Hip Joints Findings are s/o AVN (Avascular necrotic changes) of
B/L femoral heads which was stage - 3 in the right hip and
n left hip Stage - 2
USG(A+P) NAD
Vitamin D 49.62 mg/dl
Calcium 9.9 mg/dl
❖ Samprapti (Pathology)
• The inadequate blood supply, known as Avarodha caused by Vata in the Sira, affects the femur's head, leading to depletion
(Sosha) in Sira, Snayu, and Kandara. This depletion weakens the head, neck of the femur, and the hip joint. Additionally,
Vata accumulates in the Rakta (blood) and Asthivaha Srotas (channels related to bones), resulting in the Sosha
(dehydration) of Asthidhatu (bone tissue) due to insufficient nourishment. Furthermore, aggravation of Vata due to
inappropriate dietary choices and lifestyle habits leads to its accumulation in the hip joint, contributing to progressive
degeneration, causing intense pain, and hindering hip joint movement.
❖ Treatment
The general principles of management involve initial Snehana (oleation therapy) followed by the treatment of Vatarakta
patients with either Sneha Virechana or Mrudu Rooksha Virechana. Post-purgation, frequent Basti (enema therapy)
comprising both Anuvasana (oil-based) and Niruha (decoction-based) Basti is recommended. Additionally, therapies such
as Seka (pouring of medicated liquids), Abhyanga, Pradeha (medicated pastes), dietary regulation, and appropriate oleation
should be administered, ensuring they do not induce excessive heat (Vidaha).7
➢ Ayurvedic oral medications were prescribed to the patient for Deepana-Pachana (enhancing digestion and metabolism).
The specifics of these medications are outlined below:
S. N. Drug Dose Time Duration
1 Tab Guduchyadi kashaya 2 tabs before food BD 1 week
2 Syp Madiphala rasyana 3 tsf before food BD 1 week
3 Granules freelax 1tsf Empty stomach early 1 week
morning
Basti Karma
➢ Following a 30-day gap, Basti Karma, a therapeutic enema, was administered as per the following protocol:
➢ Details of therapies administered:
S. N. Procedure Ingredients Duration
1 Abhayanga and Sarvanga Seka Ksheerabala Taila 15 days
2 Vashpa Swedana Dashamoola kwatha 15 days
5 Kala Basti 1.Anuvasana basti: 15 days
Mahatiktaka ghrita(100ml) +
Sahacharadi taila(100ml)
2.Niruha basti:
Honey - 60ml
Saindhava - 5 gm
Mahatiktaka ghrita – 100 ml
Satapushpa kalka - 20gm
Mustadi Yapana kwatha - 400 ml
Shamana Aushadhi
➢ The following medications were advised after the completion of the Samsarjana Karma:
S. N. Drug Dose Time Duration
1 Cap Viscovas 1 cap After food TID 2 weeks
2 Cap Bonton 1 cap After food TID 2 weeks
3 Pinda taila + Lin Q.S. Early morning for external 2 weeks
Kineaz application
Ayurvedic Treatment
➢ Deepana – Pachana
This initial treatment is crucial before any Shodhana Karma as the presence of Ama can hinder the effectiveness of the
purification process. It plays a pivotal role in preparing the body for the primary therapeutic action.
• Tab Guduchyadi Kashaya – It functions as an Agnideepana (boosts digestion), Tridoshashamak (balances Doshas), and a
potent Rasayana (rejuvenating tonic). It possesses antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, antiarthritic, antioxidant, and immune-
modulating properties. This tablet effectively treats various fevers characterized by symptoms like burning sensation,
excessive salivation, thirst, vomiting, and reduced appetite.
• Madiphala Rasayana, an Ayurvedic remedy derived from the wild lemon or Madiphala citrus fruit, serves as a digestive
aid. It effectively alleviates hyperacidity and heartburn. Additionally, Madiphala Rasayana functions as an immunity
booster, enhancing the body's defense mechanisms.
• Freelax granules are effective in treating habitual constipation. It Maintains the elasticity of blood vessels facilitates the
easy removal of stool.
➢ Panchakarma
• Abhyanga (Oleation therapy) – decreases Vata Dosha, promotes Dosha softness, purifies the abdomen (Kostha), enhances
digestive power, and strengthens the body. The Ksheerbala Taila utilized in Abhyanga possesses properties that reduce
Vata, alleviating discomfort (Shula). Its attributes like Snigdha Sukshma enable deep penetration, reducing Vata-related
issues, and effectively combating Vatarakta due to its Tikta and Kashaya Rasa (bitter and astringent taste) properties.
• Swedana (Sudation therapy)– Sweating expels impurities via perspiration, considered a waste (Mala), cleansing the body's
seven tissues (Saptadhatu). Swedana Karma induces intentional perspiration, liquefying accumulated Dosha after
Snehapana. This therapy mobilizes Dosha in subtle channels (Srotas), improving flow. Swedana boosts digestive fire,
increases appetite, clears channels, and reduces lethargy.
• Virechana - Gandharva Hastadi Taila stands out as an effective Sneha Virechana medicine. It aligns Vata, cleanses
channels (Srotovishodhana), enhances strength, addresses lower-body imbalances (Adhobhaga Doshahara), aids digestion,
2024 EPRA IJRD | Journal DOI: https://doi.org/10.36713/epra2016 | https://eprajournals.com/ |54 |
SJIF Impact Factor (2023): 8.574| ISI I.F. Value: 1.241| Journal DOI: 10.36713/epra2016 ISSN: 2455-7838(Online)
EPRA International Journal of Research and Development (IJRD)
Volume: 9 | Issue: 1 | January 2024 - Peer Reviewed Journal
and mitigates swelling (Shothahara). Ideal for Sneha Virechana in Vata disorders involving Rakta/Pitta, like Vataraktha.
Its properties - Teekshna, Sookshma, Sara, Kashaya Rasa, Madhura Vipaka - pacify Vata and Rakta, enabling elimination
of accumulated waste (Sanchita Mala).
• Basti (Enema) - Vatarakta is the Madhyama Rogamarga Vyadhi, finds Basti as its optimal treatment.8 Basti, through
purification, expels excessive deranged metabolic waste, resolving Vata Avarana (obstruction), and reinstating Vyana and
Apana functions. Once purification occurs, digestion normalizes, kickstarting proper metabolism, aiding in the formation
of balanced bodily tissues (Samyak Dhatus).
o Anuvasana Basti: Vata, the primary Dosha and a significant player in disease manifestation (Samprapti), necessitated the
use of Basti therapy for its pacification. Anuvasana Basti utilized Sahacharadi Oil and Guggulu Tiktaka Ghrita. As AVN
affects the Asthi Dhatu (bone tissue), Guggulu Tiktaka Ghrita was chosen due to its indication in Asthi-related disorders.9
Sahacharadi oil properties - Snigdha, Guru, and Ushna Virya—harmonize Vata Dosha, aligning with the treatment goals.
o Niruha Basti: Mustadi Yapana Basti is recommended to enhance strength, vitality (Jeevana Shakti), and fertility (Vrishya).
It effectively addresses inflammation (Shopha), low back pain (Katishoola), discomfort in the calf and thigh areas, and
Vatarakta. This therapy possesses Rasayana qualities, breaking the disease's progression by clearing channel blockages
(Srotoavrodha), purifying channels (Sroto Shodhana), and restoring depleted Dhatus (Kshaya) due to its nourishing
nature.10 Specifically, in AVN of the hip joint, where blockages in small blood vessels cause reduced circulation to the
femoral head, resulting in Raktavaha Srotorodha and subsequent depletion of the bone tissue (Asthi Dhatu), Mustadi
Yapana Basti was administered.
Shamana Aushadhi
• Cap Bonton - Containing various Ayurvedic herbs like Asthi Shrunkhala, Arjun, Medasak, and Abha Guggulu, is designed
to strengthen bones. It aids in quick fracture healing, boosts calcium deposition at fracture sites, and reduces pain and
inflammation. This supplement enhances bone density in osteoporosis, offering a natural solution for bone health.
• Cap Viscovas - It is formulated to mitigate arterial damage, decrease platelet aggregation, and improve both arterial and
venous circulation. With ingredients like Guggulu, Pippali, Hareetaki, Manjishta, Kulaththa, Shigru, and Paribhadra, it's
beneficial for conditions such as stroke, ischemic heart disease, peripheral vascular disorders, thromboembolism, vascular
headaches, and lipid disorders.
• Pinda Taila - It combines Sariva, Sarjarasa, Manjistha, and Madhuchisstha as herbal pastes (Kalka Dravya). This blend
uses water as a liquid base (Jala) and oil as the oleation medium (Sneha Dravya). These herbs offer sweet, astringent, and
bitter tastes along with cooling properties. They aid in blood purification (Raktaprasadana), pacify Vata and Pitta Doshas
(Vatapittahara), and alleviate swelling (Sothaghna Karma).
• Lin Kineaz - It effectively relieves musculoskeletal pain in various areas such as knee joints, neck, lower back, and
headaches, acting as an analgesic, anti-inflammatory, rubefacient, and desensitizer. Its active constituents penetrate tissues
deeply, inhibiting the release of pain and inflammation-inducing chemical mediators in muscles, joints, and tendons.
➢ Panchakarma therapies may aid in AVN management by offering detoxifying and rejuvenating effects. The combination
of modern medical examinations and Ayurvedic assessments was crucial in diagnosing and managing AVN. While modern
medicine focused on physical and radiological examinations of the necrotic lesion, Ayurveda took a holistic approach,
considering overall health, Dosha imbalances, and lifestyle factors contributing to AVN development. This integration
provides a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and managing various health conditions, including AVN.
❖ Conclusion:
• A blend of Ayurvedic medication and Panchakarma therapies improved joint pain, mobility, and overall well-being in an
AVN patient. This approach notably reduced the necrotic lesion and enhanced hip joint mobility. Ayurveda, particularly in
Vatarakta and Asthi-Siragata Vata cases, shows promise as a safe and effective alternative to standard AVN treatments.
While this study suggests Ayurvedic treatment's potential, larger studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness and safety
in AVN management.
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