Evaluation of Abhyanga and Unmardan with Dashmool Taila in the Management of Vedana (Muscular Pain): A Randomised Controlled Trial Protocol

Introduction: Pain is a significant diagnostic marker and a primary reason individuals seek medical care. Recognised as the fifth vital sign, it serves an essential role in the body’s defense mechanism. Chronic pain impacts approximately 30-50% of the population and is often associated with conditions such as arthritis, spinal disorders and muscular pain. Conventional management relies on NSAIDs and opioids, but their longterm use poses risks. Dashmool, a vata-pacifying Ayurvedic preparation, offers a safer alternative. Ayurveda attributes pain primarily to vata imbalance, caused by occlusion (Avarana) or tissue depletion (DhatuKshaya). Pain management aims to balance Vata and enhance tolerance. Among various therapies, Abhyanga and Unmardan are widely used. Abhyanga involves oil application to nourish tissues and calm Vata, while Unmardan, a deep tissue kneading technique, targets deeper muscular structures. Given the high prevalence of pain and the need for safer alternatives, exploring these therapies could provide valuable insights. Need of the study: Chronic pain is a major health concern due to its high prevalence and impact on physical and emotional well-being. Various massage techniques are used for pain management, but research on Unmardan for Vedana (muscular pain) is lacking. No comparative studies have evaluated Abhyanga and Unmardan for muscular pain relief. Abhyanga, a key external oleation therapy, is widely used and mentioned in classical texts as part of Dinacharya (daily regimen). Acharya Sushruta states that Abhyanga helps prevent Vata and kapha disorders, but scientific research on its effects remains limited. Aim: Evaluation of comparative efficacy of Abhyanga and Unmardan with Dashmool Taila in the management of Vedana (Muscular pain). Materials and Methods: The present randomised singleblind two-arm superiority Controlled trial will be conducted at Mahatma Gandhi Ayurvedic College Hospital & Research Centre, Wardha ,Maharashtra, India (January 2025-January 2026). Sixty patients will be divided into two groups. Group A (n=30): Abhyanga with Dashmoola Oil, Group B (n=30): Unmardan with Dashmoola oil. The procedure will be done for 45 min. Up to seven days and follow-up will be taken on the 0, 8th and 16th day in both the groups on the objective parameters {Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) Scale, Numeric pain rating scale, Quality of life scale}. Paired and unpaired t-tests will analyse data, with p<0.05 considered significant.