Case Study: Ayurvedic Treatment of Vatakantaka through Raktamokshana

Abstract

According to Acharya, it has been observed that when an individual traverses an irregular or uneven terrain, the vata dosha becomes localized and exacerbated in the ankle joint, resulting in pain in the heel region commonly referred to as Vatakantaka. It may be likened to Plantar Fasciitis, a painful condition affecting the heel that impedes daily activities. Plantar Fasciitis is caused by the repetitive stretching and straining of the plantar fascia, resulting in injury and inflammation that presents as heel pain. A 34-year-old female patient reports experiencing left heel pain during the first few steps in the morning, which is alleviated after walking. However, the pain returns after a prolonged period of rest. The present case study employs Raktmokshana to evaluate its effectiveness in alleviating pain. According to Acharya, pain arises solely from the vitiation of Vata Dosha or Rakta Dhatu. Given the patient's severe burning sensation and pain, Raktamokshana was done through Siravedh techniques at the ankle region over the course of four sessions, spaced seven days apart. This treatment resulted in complete pain relief for the patient.