A Case Of Plantar Fasciitis – Treated with Agnikarma & Bandhana
Plantar Fasciitis, a degenerative condition of the plantar fascia ligament, is one of the most frequent causes of heel pain. While modern approaches rely heavily on anti-inflammatory medications, orthotics, and physical therapy, Ayurveda provides time-tested procedures like Agnikarma (therapeutic cauterization) and Bandhana (supportive bandaging) to provide targeted and effective relief. Case Report
- Age/Gender: 42-year-old female
- Occupation: Sales executive (prolonged standing)
- Complaints: Heel pain (Rt. foot), more severe in the morning, stiffness, radiating pain on walking.
- Duration: More than 2 years (more severe from past 5 months)
- Prior treatments: Analgesics, orthotics, local steroid injections (temporary relief).
Ayurvedic Diagnosis - Dosha Involvement: Predominantly Vata & mild Kapha
- Vyadhi (Disease): Vatkantak
- Shrotas affected: Rakta, Mamsa and Asthi
- Samprapti (Pathogenesis): Localized Vata Vriddhi with Sanga due to Kapha, leading to Shoola (pain) and sometimes Stambha (stiffness) in Paadtala.
Treatment Principles - Nirama Avastha: No signs of Ama, hence Deepana-Pachana was not prioritized.
- Main Chikitsa:
- Vata-Kapha shaman
- Vedana sthapana (pain-relieving)
- Sthanik (localized therapy) using Agnikarma
- Supportive Bandhana to stabilize fascia and promote healing.
Main Therapies 1. Ishtika Sweda – Brick was heated until hot and then placed in a utensil and Dhanyamla was poured on it. It’s Ushma reduces aggravated Vata and Kapha. Performed for 2 weeks (Thrice a week). 2. Agnikarma (Therapeutic Cauterization)
- Tools used: Panchadhatu Shalaka
- Points cauterized: Local tender points on heel
- Number of sittings: 4 sessions (twice a week)
- Procedure:
- Cleaned area with antiseptic
- Heated rod applied in Bindu Dahana pattern (dot cauterization)
- Immediate application of Aloe vera pulp for soothing
- Bandaging done post-procedure
· Agnikarma is
ushna and
tikshna, effectively pacifying aggravated Vata and Kapha. It relieves chronic pain by breaking local obstruction (
Shrotorodha), improves circulation and enhances tissue metabolism.
2. Bandhana (Supportive Bandaging)
- Applied post-Agnikarma using medicated cloth and mild compression bandage.
- Used to support the plantar fascia and minimize micro-tears
- Herbs used for impregnation: Ashwagandha, Bala, Eranda-moola decoction mixed with Kottumchukadi Churna and Rasnadi Churna.
- Continued daily for 2 weeks.
Bandhana supports structural alignment, aids healing by reducing strain, and allows the fascia to rest and regenerate.
- Oral Medications:
- Yograj Guggulu – Vata shamak, anti-inflammatory.
- Maha Rasnadi Kwatha – Joint and muscle relaxant.
- Ashwagandha Churna – Rasayana and tissue nourisher.
- Local Application:
- Mahanarayan Taila – Applied gently before bath to keep Vata in check.
- Lifestyle Advice:
- Warm water foot soaks.
- Avoid cold/damp surfaces and walking barefoot.
- Supportive footwear post-treatment.
Patient was cured in 4 weeks with no pain and stiffness in the foot and advised to take medications for next 15 days.
