Jalaukavacharana- a case report on the ayurvedic treatment of vatakantak w.s.r. to plantar fasciitis

Background

Vatakantaka is an Ayurvedic disorder characterized by sharp pain in the heel region and is clinically correlated to plantar fasciitis. Jaloukavacharana is an Ayurvedic para surgical procedure includes under Raktamokshana. However, clinical evidence regarding on its application in Vatakantaka corresponding to plantar fasciitis remains limited. Case Presentation: A 43year old male patient reported pain in the plantar aspect of the right heel region for eight months, aggravated by the first few steps after rest and prolonged standing, with difficulty in performing daily activities. On examination, localized tenderness was present over the plantar heel, and the Windlass test was positive. A lateral radiograph showed no any significant bony abnormality. Considering the clinical history and examination findings, the condition was diagnosed as vatakantaka w.s.r. plantar fasciitis. Intervention and Outcome: Jaloukavacharana procedure was performed over the most tender area of the plantar heel in three sittings on Day 0, Day 7, and Day 15. Pain, tenderness, and the Windlass test were assessed at baseline, after each sitting, and during follow-up. The VAS pain score decreased from 5 at baseline to 4 after the first sitting, 2 after the second sitting, and 0 after the third sitting. Tenderness reduced from grade 4 to grade 0, and the Windlass test changed from positive to negative. The improvement was maintained during follow-up on Days 21 and 28.