A Comparative Clinical Study of Agnikarma With Kamsya Shalaka and Loha Shalaka in the Management of Vatakantaka W.S.R. To Plantar Fasciitis

Background of the Study: Among all the Vatavyadhi, Vatakantaka is one of the important Vyadhi. Acharya Sushrutha mentioned the concept of Vatakantaka as it occurs mainly due to walking on the uneven surface and due to Shrama. Due to which Vitiated Vata Dosha accumulates at the heel region and cause severe pain. The present study, Agnikarma with Kamsya Shalaka and Loha Shalaka in two different groups were used to evaluate their efficacy in the management of Vatakantaka. Objectives of the Study: 1. To critically review classical and contemporary literature relating to Agnikarma, Vatakantaka, and Plantar Fasciitis. 2. To clinically assess the effectiveness of Agnikarma performed with Kamsya Shalaka in patients with Vatakantaka. 3. To clinically assess the effectiveness of Agnikarma performed with Loha Shalaka in patients with Vatakantaka. 4. To systematically compare the outcomes of Agnikarma administered with Kamsya Shalaka versus Loha Shalaka in the treatment of Vatakantaka. Study Desing: This study is a randomized comparative clinical study in which 40 patients diagnosed with Vatakantaka, fulfilling the inclusion and exclusion criteria, were selected and randomly allocated into two groups Group A (Trial Group) and Group B Standard Group) – each consisting of 20 patients. Assessment was carried out before treatment and after treatment based on subjective and objective criteria. Group A (Trial Group) treated with Agnikarma using Kamsya Shalaka was administered once a week interval for a total of 4 sessions. Group B (Standard Group) treated with Agnikarma using Loha Shalaka was administered once a week interval for a total of 4 sessions. Results and conclusion: The effect of the treatment in both the groups was assessed by applying Statistical tests: Mann Witney U test – Between the groups and Wilcoxon test – Within the groups respectively. Both Group Patients had better results from Agnikarma using both Shalakas. However, Group A (Trial Group) – Kamsya Shalaka Agnikarma demonstrated superior results in terms of symptomatic relief compared to Group B (Standard Group) – Loha Shalaka Agnikarma. It can be concluded from the study that in the management of Vatakantaka, Agnikarma with Kamsya Shalaka and Loha Shalaka Chikitsa plays an important role in cure.