Innovative Dry Needling Technique (Viddha Karma) Approach for Alleviating Avabahuka (Frozen Shoulder)-A case study

Abstract

Frozen shoulder, clinically known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. Typically, the onset of symptoms is gradual, and they tend to worsen over time. However, it is worth noting that these symptoms often improve. Joints are integral for bodily movement, and their impairment not only leads to physical limitations but also has psychological ramifications such as anxiety, impatience, and melancholy. The shoulder joint, known for its extensive range of motion, can severely hinder daily activities when injured, exacerbating psychological distress due to the intense pain it causes. Recovering from a frozen shoulder typically spans 1 to 3 years, making it a challenging ordeal. According to Ayurveda, a frozen shoulder aligns with Sushruta's definition of Avabahuka, where vitiated Vata dosha infiltrates the shoulder joint's veins, rendering it immobile and causing muscle atrophy. Recognizing the modern equivalence of Avabahuka as Frozen Shoulder underscores the significance of its treatment. Ayurveda offers diverse therapeutic approaches, one being Viddha Karma—a Parasurgical method employing pricking to expel accumulated Doshas from the body. This technique promptly relieves pain by balancing local Vata and Kapha Dosha, all without adverse side effects. Moreover, it enhances a patient's quality of life by reducing reliance on painkillers and pharmaceutical interventions.