Abstract

AYURVEDA CENTRIC MANAGEMENT OF ASTHIBHAGNA

Vidya C. Undale*

ABSTRACT

Asthibhagna i.e. fracture is defined as a break in the continuity of bone. Acharya Susruta has mentioned total 12 types of fracture i.e. Kandbhagna and 6 types of dislocation of joints i.e. Sandhi-moksha in sutrasthan. He has well explained the causes of fractures as falls, beating, blow, excessive movement, bites or attacks from animals, especially trauma. There are many drugs of plant origin which have been described & used in Ayurveda medicine for the treatment of Asthibhagna. Herbal medicines are really very effective in reducing swelling, pain, soreness which are always in association with fracture and gives speedy recovery. All these herbal medicines are currently in demand so their popularity is increasing day by day. Acharya Sushrut has not only mentioned the causes, he has elaborated the management for the fracture in chikitsasthan. He has mainly described four step treatment for Asthibhagna. 1. Anchana (Traction), 2. Peedan (Manipulation), 3. Sankshepana (Opposition and stabilization), 4. Bandhana (Immobilisation) Even in modern era this treatment is totally applicable and found very useful. Likewise poultice of different plant extracts, wooden splints, Guggul kalpas & many other herbal preparations are very effective in the treatment of asthibhagna.

Keywords: Kandbhagna, Sandhi-moksha, poultice, wooden splints.