Ayurvedic Management of Janusandhigat Vata through Agnikarma: A Case Study

Background: Sandhigat Vata, a subtype of Vata Vyadhi, is a chronic degenerative condition that typically presents with joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and crepitus, particularly in weight-bearing joints such as the knees. It is closely comparable to osteoarthritis in modern medicine and significantly affects quality of life. Conventional treatment options often offer only temporary relief and may lead to adverse effects with long-term use. Objective: To assess the clinical efficacy of Agnikarma using Panchadhatu Shalaka in the management of Janusandhigat Vata (osteoarthritis of the knee). Methods: A 28-year-old female patient with bilateral knee pain, swelling, and crepitus, diagnosed with Janusandhigat Vata, was treated at Rani Dullaiya Smriti Ayurveda PG College Hospital, Bhopal. The patient had a history of partial relief with NSAIDs but no sustained benefit. The treatment protocol involved Agnikarma application over the affected joints using Panchadhatu Shalaka once weekly for three weeks, along with internal administration of Triphala Guggulu, Rasnadi Guggulu, and Sahacharadi Kwatha. Clinical parameters such as pain (VAS), swelling, range of motion, and stiffness were assessed at baseline and after each session. Results: Post-treatment observations revealed a substantial reduction in pain and swelling, improvement in range of motion, and near-complete resolution of stiffness and crepitus. Pain scores reduced from 7/10 to 2/10, and functional mobility was significantly restored. No adverse effects were reported during the treatment period. Discussion: Agnikarma offers localized thermal therapy that induces microcirculatory enhancement, pain fiber desensitization, and Vata pacification. It acts by reducing local inflammation and promoting tissue regeneration. Conclusion: Agnikarma is a clinically effective, safe, and sustainable treatment modality in the management of Sandhigat Vata, with potential for broader clinical application in osteoarthritis care.