A Case Report on the Ayurvedic Management of Vatarakta w.s.r to Elderly Onset Rheumatoid Arthritis

Abstract

Vatarakta, described in Ayurvedic classics as a disorder arising from the vitiation of Vata and Rakta, shares clinical similarities with Elderly Onset Rheumatoid Arthritis (EORA), particularly in its inflammatory and debilitating presentation. Conventional management often focuses on symptomatic control, whereas Ayurveda offers a holistic approach aimed at restoring systemic balance. Case Presentation: A geriatric patient presented with moderate swelling (Grade 2), severe burning sensation (Grade 3), and severe pain (Grade 4) along with markedly elevated inflammatory markers. An Ayurvedic treatment protocol was designed, incorporating Dasamoola Kashaya Dhara, Choorna Pinda Sweda (Rūksha and Snigdha), Snehapāna, Abhyanga and Panchakarma procedures like Virechana, Ardhmātrika Vasti, and Ksheera Vasti over a structured treatment period. Outcomes: Post-treatment evaluation showed complete resolution of swelling and burning sensation, with pain reducing from Grade 4 to Grade 1. Hemoglobin improved from 10.4gm% to 11.2gm%. Inflammatory markers showed remarkable reduction: ESR decreased from 95mm/hr to 50mm/hr, CRP from 192.8mg/dL to 35mg/dL, and Rheumatoid Factor from 640 IU/mL to 120 IU/mL. These clinical and biochemical improvements indicate significant alleviation of systemic inflammation and autoimmune activity. Conclusion: The integrative Ayurvedic protocol demonstrated substantial therapeutic benefit in managing Vatarakta/EORA, suggesting its potential as an effective complementary approach in geriatric inflammatory joint disorders.