ISSN: 2578-4838
Authors: Sindhuja BS, Sankar I, Reddy RM and Shweta T*
Adhesive Capsulitis or Frozen shoulder also termed as Kumbavatham in Siddha system of medicine, causes swelling and stiffness in particular shoulder capsule restricting its mobility and ROM. The pain intensity is seen to increase in night times with gradual onset of shoulder stiffness and restriction in movement of the shoulder. Conservatively, it can be treated by analgesics, oral steroids, and intra-articular corticosteroid injections. Sometimes, the symptoms persists despite taking conservative measures, initiating patients to opt for alternative therapies for reducing pain and provide flexibility to the joint. A 34-year male from Bangalore presented with severe pain and restricted movements like abduction, adduction, external rotation and flexion of right shoulder both in active and passive movements for last 6 months. The patient was in distressed condition and even small daily tasks were difficult for him. MRI report confirmed of adhesive capsulitis (kumbavatham), one of the vatha diseases mentioned in Siddha system of medicine. A one-month Siddha vaidyam theraupatic approach incorporating Varmam therapy and thokkanam was administered to him. After 25 days, vast improvement in swelling and stiffness with all movements free in Right shoulder with no pain on moving the right arm. The holistic approach of Siddha medicine has provided the reduction in pain measured on VAS and improved restricted movements which was measured using goniometer and SPADI index. The Siddha system of Medicine is a simple and traditional approach for the treatment of such painful conditions. Conservative management of Adhesive capsulitis through Siddha practices provided significant relief by reducing pain and providing better flexibility in shoulder joints without aid of any analgesics. The paper also gives the details of the method employed and lifestyle modification techniques used to treat the individual.
Keywords: Adhesive Capsulitis; Kumbavatham; Siddha Therapy; Varmam Therapy; Thokannam
