A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF VATAKANTAKA: AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVES AND TREATMENT MODALITIES

Dr. Chepure Vikram Sureshreddy*, Dr. Shankar S. and Dr. Manjunath S. Naregal

ABSTRACT

Vatakantaka, a condition extensively documented in Ayurvedic texts by Acharya Sushruta, is characterized by heel pain primarily due to improper foot placement or prolonged walking on uneven surfaces. This ailment is often correlated with the modern medical condition known as a calcaneal spur, a calcium deposit causing a bony protrusion on the heel bone. Calcaneal spurs frequently coexist with plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the plantar fascia, resulting in significant pain and disruption of daily activities. The prevalence of plantar fasciitis and associated heel spurs underscores the need for effective management strategies. Ayurvedic treatments for Vatakantaka, including Agnikarma (thermal cauterization), Snehna (oleation), Swedan (sudation), and Raktamokshana (bloodletting), offer promising therapeutic benefits. This review aims to elucidate the aetiology, pathophysiology, and clinical manifestations of Vatakantaka, with a special focus on its association with the calcaneal spur, and to explore traditional Ayurvedic interventions as viable treatment options.

Keywords: Vatakantaka, Calcaneal spur, Vatavyadhi.