The Ayurvedic Explanation
According to ayurveda, frozen shoulder is described as Apabahuka and it most commonly affects the amsa sandhi (shoulder joint). Ayurveda categorizes it as a vatapradhanavyadhi (Disease due to high involvement of vata) that causes pain in the shoulder and severely restricts movements.
Ayurvedic Treatment for Frozen Shoulder in Kerala, India
Frozen shoulder causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint over one to three years, thickening and tightening the shoulder capsule. It affects mainly people aged 40-60, especially women, and can be triggered by medical conditions or immobility. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, and limited motion. Diagnosis is through exams and imaging, and treatment includes physical therapy, medications, and sometimes surgery.
Causes
Frozen shoulder occurs when the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint thickens and tightens. Risk factors include being over 40, especially women, and having reduced shoulder mobility due to injuries or surgeries. Conditions like diabetes, TB, Parkinson's disease, and thyroid disorders also increase the likelihood of developing frozen shoulder.
Snehana
Snehana involves the application of medicated oils, ghee and herbs to the body internally and externally for three to seven days. Snehana is crucial as it loosens ama or toxins and doshas in the body.
Swedana
Swedana is the thermal or non-thermal procedure which cures stiffness, heaviness and cold and produces sweating in the body. By using different properties of swedana dravyas, it is mainly beneficial in vata kaphaja rogas (diseases).
Basti
Basti is a treatment to support vata energy. An enema prepared with oil and fat, which are the sharp properties of vata, will help to reduce kapha, eliminate ama toxins.
Nasya
Nasya treatment refers to an Ayurvedic therapy that includes instillation of herbal oils, juices or powders through the nasal route. It is especially desirable for diseases of parts above the base of the neck, nasal passage being the gateway of the head.
Ayurveda Treatment for Frozen Shoulders
Freezing Stage
Your shoulder hurts when you move it, and its range of motion starts to get restricted.
Frozen Stage
During this phase, pain may start to lessen. But using your shoulder gets harder and your shoulder stiffens.
Stage of Thawing
Your shoulder's range of motion starts to get better.