Management of Osteoarthritis through Blood letting therapy- A case report

Abstract

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common chronic condition of the joints characterised by deep achy pain, stiffness and reduced range of motion. OA can be correlated with Sadhigatavata in Ayurveda. But when it get affected with complications like synovium inflammation, Raktanubhandhatwa (blood vitiation) occurs and we can brought it under ‘kroshtukasheera’ which is a Vatashonitha vyadhi. In Ayurveda, primary treatment of choice for Vatashonitha is Snehana (oleation) and Raktamoksha (Blood letting). A case of OA was managed at the OPD level by means of blood letting therapy and found to be effective. Case report: A treatment protocol was designed based on the signs and symptoms of the patient and administered. Snehana followed by Virechana (purgation) and Sha mana (pacification) was done initially. Later 4 sittings of Raktamoksha was done by modified Shringavacharana ie by cupping therapy, in two months duration. Result & Conclusion: Blood letting therapy was found to be effective in managing the knee joint pain and associated dysfunction. Quality of life of the patient was improved, as he could walk in a pain-free environment. Patient of OA should be given a choice against pain management therapies like knee arthroscopy and arthroplasty. This can be achieved by proper evaluation of the therapies adapted here and reproducing the same in a larger group.