EXPLORING AYURVEDIC TREATMENT: A PROMISING APPROACH FOR AVASCULAR NECROSIS MANAGEMENT

Abstract

Avascular necrosis (AVN) causes bone tissue death due to disrupted blood supply, commonly affecting the hip, knee, and shoulder 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.