Ayurvedic Name: Avabahuk
Description:
Avabahuk is a condition characterized by affecting the shoulder joint, commonly associated with frozen shoulder or adhesive capsulitis. It results from Vata aggravation, which leads to stiffness, restricted movement, and pain in the shoulder region. The condition is often linked to trauma, excessive dryness, degenerative changes, or chronic conditions like diabetes.
Ayurvedic management includes Abhyanga, Swedana, Basti, Nasya with medicated oils, and internal administration of herbs like Bala, Dashmoola, and Ashwagandha to restore joint mobility and reduce inflammation.
Signs & Symptoms:
- Adhesive Capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder): Gradual pain and stiffness in the shoulder, making it difficult to move.
- Sandhishoola (Joint Pain): Aching or sharp pain in the shoulder joint, often worsening with movement.
- Stambha (Stiffness): Limited range of motion in the shoulder, making it hard to raise or rotate the arm.
- Shotha (Swelling): Swelling around the shoulder joint due to inflammation.
- Rukshata (Dryness): Dryness and tightness in the shoulder muscles due to prolonged stiffness.
- Gaurava (Heaviness): A sensation of heaviness or tightness in the shoulder area, especially with movement.
Diagnosis:
Clinical exam and shoulder mobility assessment
Risk Factors:
- Dietary Factors
Inflammatory Diet: Excessive consumption of inflammatory foods such as processed foods, sugars, and fatty acids can worsen inflammation in the shoulder joint.
Nutrient Deficiencies: Lack of vitamin D, calcium, or magnesium can affect joint health and lead to stiffness and pain. - Lifestyle Factors
Prolonged Immobilization: Keeping the shoulder immobile for long periods, either after injury or surgery, increases the risk of developing frozen shoulder.
Lack of Physical Activity: Inactivity or not using the shoulder joint fully during recovery can lead to stiffness and reduced mobility. - Medical Conditions
Diabetes: Individuals with diabetes are at a higher risk for developing frozen shoulder due to poor blood circulation and immune system dysfunction.
Shoulder Injury or Surgery: Any shoulder injury or surgery increases the risk of developing frozen shoulder due to inflammation and scar tissue formation.
Complications:
- Severe Pain (Bahu Shoola): Frozen shoulder leads to persistent, sharp pain, particularly when trying to move the shoulder.
- Muscle Weakness (Mamsa Dourbalya): Lack of movement over time leads to weakening of shoulder muscles, reducing strength.
- Loss of Shoulder Mobility (Bahu Gati-Vikriti): The inability to move the shoulder freely can result in long-term stiffness and difficulty with daily activities.
- Chronic Disability (Aparipurnata): If left untreated, frozen shoulder can result in a permanent loss of function in the shoulder joint.
- Depression (Manasik Dourbalya): Chronic pain and disability from frozen shoulder can lead to emotional distress and mental health issues.
Epidemeology:
More common in women than men, particularly those aged 40-60. Approximately 2-5% of the population may develop frozen shoulder, with diabetes and other metabolic conditions increasing the risk.
Peak incidence in people with a history of shoulder trauma or those who experience prolonged immobility. About 20% of people with diabetes may develop frozen shoulder, making it a significant risk for those with metabolic disorders.
References:
- Charaka Samhita. Ayurveda Deepika commentary by Chakrapani datta. In: Yadav T, editor. Indriya sthana, 11/8-9. Fourth Edition. Varanasi: Chaukhamba Orientalia; 1994. pp. 8–9.
- Nidana sthana, 1/82. Varanasi: Chaukhamba Orientalia; 1991. Sushruta Samhita, Dalhana.
- First edition. Varanasi: Chaukhamba Surabharati prakashan; 1986. Madhava nidana, madhukosha commentary, 22/65.
- Motilal Banarasi Das., editor. Uttara sthana, 24/7. Eighth edition. Varanasi: 1998. Ashtanga Hridaya, commentary on Sarvangasundari tika.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3202264/
