Critical Analysis of Sthapani Marma: A Conceptual and Anatomical Review

Abstract

The science of Marma is a fundamental aspect of Ayurvedic anatomy and surgery found detailed descriptions in classical texts mainly in Brihatrayi. Marma are the vital points where structures like Mamsa, Sira, Snayu, Asthi and Sandhi meet along with Prana. Among the 107 Marma described in Ayurveda, Sthapani Marma is an important Urdhwajatrugat Marma located between the two eyebrows and is classified under Vishalyaghna Marma, measuring half Angula and mainly composed of Sira Avayava with Vayu dominance. Classical texts describe that a person may survive if a foreign body (Shalya) lodged in Vishalyaghna Marma remains in place or falls out naturally after Paka, but removal of the Shalya may lead to death due to aggravated Vata. At Sthapani marma Ajna chakra and Shura nadi is present. Anatomically Sthapani Marma can be corresponds to the Glabella, the midline prominence between the superciliary arches. This region includes important layer-wise anatomical structures from skin and superficial fascia to muscles (procerus, corrugator supercilii), neurovascular elements (supratrochlear nerve and vessels), periosteum, frontal bone, frontal sinus, and deeper intracranial structures like dura mater and frontal lobe.