Study of Vaikalyakara Marma with special reference to Kurpara Marma

Abstract

This study was undertaken to study Kurpara Marma in relation to its Vaikalyakara effects when injured. The location of Kurpara Marma was found with the help of the description of Marma in Ayurvedic texts, dissection of the elbow joint, and with help of X-ray documentation. Total 80 patients having trauma to elbow joints due to various causes such as fall, road traffic accident, direct trauma on elbow joint, history of trauma a year back, and injury due to burn were included in this study. These patients were observed for 3 months for any changes in symptoms. In Sushruta Samhita, it was stated that an injury to the Kurpara Marma ends in Kuni (dangling of the hand), swelling, loss of power, restricted movements, and muscle wasting and associated symptoms like tingling sensation, heaviness, syncope, sweating, dizziness, and vomiting. After analysis of data, i.e., after analyzing the percentage of all symptoms on admission as well as after 3 months, it was found that all 80 patients, i.e., 100% had swelling and loss of muscle power. A total of 72 patients, i.e. 90% had dangling of hand on admission. After 3 months, 40 patients (50%) still remained with the dangling of hand. Seventy-two patients had restriction in flexion and extension deformity which still remained in 50% of patients. Hence, it was proved that Kurpara (elbow joint) is definitely a Vaikalyakara Marma. Disabilities like restriction of movements, swelling, and atrophy were remains of an injured elbow joint inspite of best surgical treatment.