EFFECT OF VIDDHA KARMA IN THE MANAGEMENT OF TENNIS ELBOW (LATERAL EPICONDYLITIS): A CASE STUDY

Tennis elbow, clinically known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common painful condition affecting the lateral aspect of the elbow and is frequently associated with repetitive wrist and forearm activities. In Ayurveda, the clinical presentation may be correlated with Snayugata Vata, where pain and functional impairment are prominent features. A 37-year-old male industrial worker presented with severe pain over the left elbow, restricted movements, tenderness over the lateral epicondylar region, and difficulty in gripping objects for three months. Clinical examination revealed tenderness and mild swelling over the lateral epicondyle, with pain aggravated by elbow movement, lifting weights, and full extension. Radiographic examination showed no significant abnormality. The patient was treated with Viddha Karma at seven-day intervals for a total treatment period of 28 days. Written informed consent was obtained before the procedure. Outcome assessment was carried out using subjective clinical parameters and grip strength measured with an electronic hand dynamometer. The patient reported progressive reduction in pain and improvement in functional ability and grip strength. Complete relief from pain was observed after three sittings, without any reported adverse effects. This case suggests that Viddha Karma may have a beneficial role in reducing pain and improving functional grip strength in patients with lateral epicondylitis. Further studies with larger sample sizes and controlled study designs are required to establish its therapeutic efficacy.