A Case Report Depicting the Role of Ayurvedic Interventions in the Management of Amavata ~Rheumatoid Arthritis

Background

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, systemic, inflammatory autoimmune disease of the synovial joints. Despite the advances in disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs, its long-term management remains challenging. The condition causes severe joint pain, stiffness and progressive disability, limiting a patient’s mobility and independence. Because the aetiology is complex and multifactorial, effective care necessitates a comprehensive, multimodal treatment plan. In Ayurveda, the clinical picture is more similar to Amavata (~rheumatoid arthritis), which is characterised by Sandhi Shoola (~joint pain) and Sandhi Shotha (~joint swelling) along with Stabdhta (~morning stiffness). Findings:A 64-year-old lady presented with a 10-year history of generalized stiffness in multiple joints in a symmetrical pattern of involvement in various small joints with deformities, and investigations showing positive RA factor. She was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and was successfully managed with Ayurveda. Intervention:Shamana Chikitsa (~Pacification therapy) as per the Avastha (~clinical presentation) of the patient for 11 months, along with Panchkarma Therapies.