An ayurvedic approach in the management of osteomyelitis toes

Summary of article contents:

Background – Osteomyelitis toe is commonly seen in patients who have peripheral neuropathy associated with diabetic mellitus. In Ayurveda, osteomyelitis can be correlated with Asthimajja Vidradhi 1 or Dusta Vrana . Dusta vrana (infected wound) can cause loss of physical activity and it can produce a significant impact on the quality of life. This study mainly concentrates on Vrana Shodhan karma (surgical debridement) of dusta vrana (infected wound) and followed by application of Karanjadi Ghrita with Shaman Chikitsa which is performed to restore the function of toe and achieve adequate wound healing. Material and method- A Fiftyeightyearold male patient came to Shalya tantra OPD of our institute (GAC Raipur) with complaints of nonhealing wounds on his great and second toe of left foot along with pain, swelling and discoloration of skin. Routine blood investigation and foot xray was taken and was diagnosed as osteomyelitis toe. Under all aseptic manner surgical debridement of necrotic tissue(slough) of wound was done by following classical guideline of Sushruta Samhita . Simultaneously, wounds cleaned by lukewarm water and alcohol then after wounds was dressed in use of Karanjadi Ghrita and following internal medicine were given to the patient for three months like Triphala Guggulu, Kaishora Guggulu, Lakshadi Guggulu, Varunadi Kashayam. Result- Significant output were observed like pain, oedema is subsided, and wound was completely healed within 3 months. Conclusion- Multidisciplinary Ayurvedic approach can play a good supportive role in managing critical conditions such as diabetic osteomyelitis toe and cosmetically preserve the body part and amputation can be avoided. Keywords: Osteomyelitis, Dusta vrana, Asthimajja Vidradhi , Shodhan Karma, Surgical debridement