“COMPREHENSIVE AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF A MENISCAL TEAR: A SINGLE CASE STUDY”

Abstract

Meniscal tears involve disruption of the fibrocartilaginous menisci of the knee joint and are commonly associated with pain, swelling, stiffness, and functional limitation. From an Ayurvedic perspective, meniscal injury can be interpreted as Sphutita (Cracked/Fissured) type of Asthi Bhagna (Bone fracture), a condition predominantly caused by Vata Dosha with involvement of Kapha Dosha and Asthi Dhatu (Bone). This single case study reports a 35-year-old male presenting with pain and swelling of the left knee joint for six months, aggravated over the last one month. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the left knee demonstrated a medial meniscal tear, which, in correlation with the clinical findings and Ayurvedic evaluation, was diagnosed as Sphutita Kandabhagna. The therapeutic approach focused on Samprapti Vighatana (Disruption of the pathogenesis) and Sandhana Karma (Promotion of tissue healing). Accordingly, Matra Basti with Sandhaniya Mahakashaya Ghrita  and Janu Basti with Balashwagandha Lakshadi Taila were administered, along with suitable Shamana Aushadhi (Palliative medications).The clinical outcomes were assessed using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scale before and after treatment. The post-treatment WOMAC scores showed significant reduction in symptoms with marked improvement in physical function and joint mobility. This case study demonstrates that the management of meniscal tears through comprehensive Ayurvedic principles, aimed at promoting tissue repair and functional recovery, underscores the potential role of Ayurvedic treatment modalities in musculoskeletal disorders.