Patient Baseline
Symmetrical pain and swelling in the small joints of the hands and wrists. Prolonged morning stiffness lasting over an hour.
Significant fatigue, low-grade fever, and a general feeling of malaise. A rheumatologist ordered specific serological and inflammatory tests, which revealed:
Anti-CCP: High-positive
ESR/CRP: Elevated
Physical Examination: Clear synovitis in wrist and MCP joints
This confirmed seropositive Rheumatoid Arthritis, an autoimmune condition targeting the synovial membranes of small joints.
Ayurvedic Diagnosis
According to Ayurvedic principles, the presentation correlates with Amavata, characterized by Agnimandya (low digestive fire) leading to Ama (toxic metabolic residue) and subsequent Vata aggravation affecting joints.
Dosha: Vata-Kapha dominant
Dushya: Rasa and Asthi Dhatu
Srotas involved: Rasavaha and Asthivaha Srotas
Panchakarma Protocols
- Deepana–Pachana: To eliminate Ama and correct Agni
- Rooksha Mridu Virechana
- Rukshana Chikitsa
- Strong Swedana
- Basti Chikitsa (Kshaar Basti)
- Lepana
Improvements Observed
- Pain and swelling reduction: 70–80% improvement
- Morning stiffness: Reduced from 1+ hour to <20 minutes
- Energy and functionality: Significantly improved daily performance without fatigue
- Inflammatory markers: ESR/CRP gradually normalised
Treatment Outcome
This case study represents one successful patient outcome under combined Ayurvedic and modern care.
Rheumatoid Arthritis varies widely among individuals — treatment must be personalized and supervised by a qualified rheumatologist and Ayurvedic physician.