Traditional Siddha Approach in Treating Frozen Shoulder (Kumbavatham) by Use of Varmam and Thokkanam Therapy- a Case Study
Frozen shoulder very common in adults is termed as Kumbavatham in Siddha system of medicine. It causes swelling and stiffness in affected shoulder capsule restricting its mobility and ROM. The pain intensity is seen to increase in night times with gradual onset of shoulder stiffness and restriction in movement of the shoulder. Conservatively, it can be treated by analgesics, oral steroids, and intra-articular corticosteroid injections along with physiotherapy exercises.
A 34-year male from Bangalore presented with severe pain and restricted movements like moving his right hand above the shoulder level, picking heavy things of >5kgs, writing for >10mins and importantly typing on computers of right for last 6 months. The patient was in distressed condition and even small daily tasks were difficult for him. A one-month Siddha vaidyam theraupatic approach incorporating Varmam therapy and thokkanam was administered to him. After 25 days, vast improvement in swelling and stiffness with all movements free in Right shoulder with no pain on moving the right arm. The holistic approach of Siddha medicine has provided the reduction in pain measured on VAS and improved restricted movements which was measured using goniometer. The Siddha system of Medicine is a simple and traditional approach for the treatment of such painful conditions without relying on analgesics and thus reducing its side effects.