Role of Agnikarma and Patra Pottali Pinda Swedana in Post Traumatic Elbow Stiffness

Abstract

Post-traumatic elbow stiffness is a challenging and disabling condition that profoundly limits joint mobility, compromises functional capacity, and affects quality of life. It commonly arises following blunt trauma, fractures, surgical interventions, or prolonged immobilization, often leading to impairment of the entire upper limb. The elbow’s complex anatomy and its tendency towards periarticular fibrosis make it particularly susceptible, so even minor injuries can result in significant restriction of movement and difficulty in performing daily activities. Conventional management- including physiotherapy, splinting, manipulation, and surgical arthrolysis-may yield variable results and is sometimes associated with recurrence or complications. In Ayurveda, such conditions are classified as Abhighataja Vyadhi (traumatic disease), predominantly involving vitiation of Vata Dosha with concurrent Kapha Dosha, manifesting as Shoola (pain), Stambha (stiffness), Shotha (swelling), and Gati Vaigunya (restricted movement). The line of treatment is primarily aimed at Vata–Kaphahara Chikitsa, as the pathology is dominated by the vitiation of these Doshas. In the present case, therapeutic intervention (Agnikarma and Patra Pottali Pinda Swedana) led to remarkable clinical improvement, with restoration of near-normal range of motion (flexion from 30°to 135°, Extension from 30°to 0°), complete relief from pain and tenderness, normalization of local temperature, and a significant enhancement of functional ability.