What is Frozen Shoulder? How it can be Treated Naturally?

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. Ayurvedic treatment, particularly Panchakarma therapy by Chandigarh Ayurved Centre, can be effective in managing and alleviating the symptoms of frozen shoulder. Here’s how Ayurveda and Panchakarma therapy can help:

Ayurvedic Perspective on Frozen Shoulder

In Ayurveda, frozen shoulder is often attributed to an imbalance of the Vata dosha, which is responsible for movement and flexibility. The aim of treatment is to pacify the aggravated Vata dosha, reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and restore normal function to the shoulder joint.

Panchakarma Therapy for Frozen Shoulder

Panchakarma is a holistic detoxification and rejuvenation process that involves five primary treatments. For frozen shoulder, the following Panchakarma therapies are done in CAC.

1. Abhyanga (Oil Massage)
– *Procedure:* Warm herbal oils are massaged into the body, with special focus on the shoulder area.
– *Benefits:* Improves blood circulation, reduces stiffness and pain, and nourishes the tissues.
– *Oils Used:* Mahanarayan oil, Dhanwantharam oil, or Bala oil.

2. Swedana (Sudation Therapy)
– *Procedure:* Induces sweating through steam or herbal fomentation, often using techniques like Nadi Swedana (localized steam) or Patra Pinda Sweda (herbal poultice).
– *Benefits:* Relieves stiffness, reduces pain, and promotes flexibility.
– *Types:* Nadi Swedana or Patra Pinda Sweda, as mentioned earlier.

3. Vasti (Medicated Enema)
– *Procedure:* Administering medicated oil or decoction enemas to cleanse and balance Vata dosha.
– *Benefits:* Helps in detoxification, pacifies Vata, and provides deep nourishment to the tissues.
– *Types:* Anuvasana Vasti (oil enema) and Niruha Vasti (decoction enema).

4. Pizhichil (Thaila Dhara)
– *Procedure:* Warm medicated oil is poured over the body in a rhythmic manner.
– *Benefits:* Alleviates pain, improves mobility, and strengthens muscles and joints.

Additional Ayurvedic Treatments

1. Greeva Basti:
– *Procedure:* A ring made of dough is placed on the shoulder, and warm medicated oil is poured into it.
– *Benefits:* Provides deep nourishment and relief from pain and stiffness.

2. Kati Basti:
– Similar to Greeva Basti, but applied to the lower back. This can be beneficial if there are associated Vata imbalances in the spine that might be contributing to shoulder issues.

Herbal Remedies

– *Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera):* Strengthens muscles and reduces inflammation.
– *Shallaki (Boswellia serrata):* Has anti-inflammatory properties.
– *Guggulu (Commiphora mukul):* Helps reduce pain and inflammation.

Lifestyle and Dietary Recommendations

1. Diet:
– Eat warm, cooked, and easily digestible foods.
– Avoid cold, dry, and raw foods which can aggravate Vata dosha.
– Include spices like ginger, turmeric, cumin, and black pepper in your diet.

2. Exercise:
– Gentle range-of-motion exercises and stretching.
– Avoid strenuous activities that could worsen the pain.

3. Rest and Relaxation:
– Ensure adequate rest and avoid stress, which can aggravate Vata.
– Practice relaxation techniques like yoga and meditation.

Safety and Precautions

– Professional Guidance:
In Chandigarh Ayurved Centre Panchakarma therapy is done under the supervision of a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner.

– Consultation:
It is essential to have a thorough consultation to determine the specific dosha imbalance and tailor the treatment accordingly.

By integrating Panchakarma therapy with Ayurvedic herbal remedies and lifestyle modifications, frozen shoulder can be effectively managed, improving mobility and reducing pain and discomfort.