Background: Acharya Sushruta has described 107 Marma, which are vital anatomical structures composed of Mama, Sira, Snayu, Asthi and Sandhi1. Injury to these Marma results in Pain, Deformity, or Loss of function depending upon their type. Kurpara Marma, situated at the junction of Bahu and Prabahu, anatomically corresponds to the elbow joint and is classified under Vaikalyakara Marma, where trauma leads to functional impairment. Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a common Sports-related overuse injury affecting the lateral aspect of the elbow joint, leading to Pain and Restricted movement of the Upper limb. Aim: To conceptualize Tennis Elbow from an Ayurvedic perspective with special reference to Kurpara Marma, Kurpara Sandhi, Rujakara Marma and Marma Aghata. Materials and Methods: A Conceptual review of classical Ayurvedic texts, including Sushruta Samhita and Astanga Hridaya, was carried out along with a review of relevant modern medical literature related to Tennis Elbow and Elbow joint Anatomy. Discussion: Tennis elbow occurs due to repetitive strain and micro-trauma to the extensor tendons and supporting ligaments around the elbow joint. From an Ayurvedic viewpoint, repeated mechanical stress leads to Marma Abhighata at the Kurpara region, resulting in Vata Prakopa and Snayu Dushti. As Kurpara Marma is a Vaikalyakara Marma2, its injury predominantly manifests as Pain, Swelling, Stiffness, and Functional disability, closely resembling the clinical features of Tennis Elbow. Conclusion: Tennis Elbow can be understood as a Marma-dominant Vata Vyadhi, Sports injury involving Kurpara Marma and Kurpara Sandhi. Understanding its Pathogenesis through a Marma perspective highlights the importance of early Preventive and Therapeutic measures to reduce Pain, improve joint function, and Prevent disability.
Dr. Prashant A S *Dr. Madhushree B. (Sun,) studied this question.