Efficacy Of Sneha Yukta Jānubandhana In The Management Of Jānu Sandhigata Vāta Vis-À-Vis Osteoarthritis Of The Knee Joint: A Case Study

Abstract

Background: Osteoarthritis of the knee, described as Jānu Sandhigata Vāta in Ayurveda, is a degenerative joint condition characterized by pain, and reduced mobility. Ayurvedic therapies such as Sneha Yukta Jānubandhana (medicated oil bandaging) aim to restore joint function by addressing Vāta dosha imbalance. Aim and Objectives: Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of Sneha Yukta Jānubandhana in managing Jānu Sandhigata Vāta. Objectives: To assess improvement in subjective parameters like pain, swelling. To evaluate objective outcomes, including range of motion (ROM) and WOMAC scores. Materials and Methods: Study Design: Single-case observational study. Intervention: Sneha Yukta Jānubandhana was performed using Moorchita Taila (medicated oil), followed by bandaging with Cora cloth for 12 hours daily over 14 days. Assessment Parameters: Subjective: Janusandhi Shoola (pain), Janusandhi Shotha (Swelling), and Janusandhi Atopa (crepitus) and WOMAC score. Objective: Range of motion (ROM). Assessment Timeline: Pre-treatment (Day 0) and post-treatment (Day 14). Results: Pain (VAS score) reduced from 6/10 to 2/10 by Day 14. ROM improved from flexion limited at 90° to normal. WOMAC score decreased from 68 (moderate disability) to 25 (excellent improvement). Significant reduction in crepitus was observed. Conclusion: Sneha Yukta Jānubandhana is a safe and effective therapy for managing Jānu Sandhigata Vāta (knee osteoarthritis). It significantly reduced pain, and crepitus while improving joint mobility and quality of life. This integrative approach aligns with Ayurvedic principles and provides a promising alternative for degenerative joint diseases. Further large-scale studies are recommended to validate these findings.