A Comparative Evaluation of Janupichu and Janudhara with Murchhita Tila Taila in the Management of Sandhigata Vata w.s.r. Knee Osteoarthritis (OA): A Study Protocol

Abstract

In Ayurveda, Sandhigata Vata closely resembles knee osteoarthritis in its clinical presentation, characterized by Sandhishu Shoola Shotha Stambha Atopa and restricted joint movements. Janupichu and Janudhara are localized Ayurvedic therapies that provide Snehana and Swedana effects and may help alleviate symptoms of Sandhigata Vata. Aim: To compare the efficacy of Janupichu and Janudhara with Murchhita Tila Taila in the management of Sandhigata Vata with special reference to knee osteoarthritis. Materials and Methods: A total of 62 patients diagnosed with Sandhigata Vata/Knee Osteoarthritis fulfilling the inclusion criteria will be enrolled and randomly allocated into two groups of 31 participants each. Group A will receive Janupichu with Murchhita Tila Taila, while Group B will receive Janudhara with Murchhita Tila Taila. The interventions will be administered from day 1–15 and repeated from day 30–45, followed by assessment up to day 60. Outcome measures will include the WOMAC Osteoarthritis Index and grading of Ayurvedic symptoms such as Sandhishu Shoola, Sandhishu Shotha, Hanti Sandhigam, Prasarana-Akunchana Vedana, Vatapurna Druti Sparsha, and Atopa. Assessments will be performed on day 0, day 30, and day 60. Results: The collected data will be statistically analyzed to evaluate the effectiveness of both interventions in reducing pain, stiffness, swelling, and functional disability associated with knee osteoarthritis. Comparative analysis will determine whether Janupichu provides superior clinical outcomes compared to Janudhara when administered with Murchhita Tila Taila. Discussion and Conclusion: This study is expected to generate evidence regarding the comparative efficacy of Janupichu and Janudhara in the management of Sandhigata Vata. The findings may contribute to the development of standardized, non-invasive, cost-effective Ayurvedic treatment protocols for knee osteoarthritis and support the integration of evidence-based Panchakarma therapies into clinical practice.