Use of Abhyanga and Kumbi Sweda with modified Mṛttikādi bricks in the management of Vātakantaka (calcaneal spurs): An observational case study

Vātakantaka, categorized under Nānātmaja Vāta Vyādhi in Ayurveda is clinically correlated with calcaneal spurs. It is characterized by sharp heel pain caused by Vāta vitiation affecting the Snāyu (tendons), Asthi (bones), and Sandhi (joints) of the heel particularly during weight-bearing activities. This condition affects individuals aged 20–70 years. The present study evaluated the therapeutic effect of Guduchyādi Taila Abhyanga (Ayurvedic therapeutic oil massage) combined with Kumbhi Sweda (a traditional Ayurvedic sudation treatment) using modified Mṛttikādi bricks in the management of Vātakantaka. An observational case study was conducted at the National Ayurveda Teaching Hospital, Borella, Sri Lanka, on one patient clinically and radiologically diagnosed with calcaneal spur and presenting with heel pain. After obtaining informed consent, the patient received daily Guduchyādi Taila Abhyanga over the affected heel, followed by Kumbhi Sweda using heated modified Mṛttikādi bricks (7 cm × 5 cm × 3 cm) prepared from Mṛttikā (clay), Spatika powder (quartz), cow dung, and water. The treatment was administered for 14 consecutive days, followed by a 14-day follow-up period. Pain intensity was assessed using the visual analogue scale (VAS) at baseline, post-treatment and at the end of the follow-up. Clinical findings were systematically documented. The patient reported complete pain relief (100%) and demonstrated full mobility by the fourth week. However, radiological evaluation revealed no significant regression of the calcaneal spur. The combined Abhyanga and Swedana treatment, as Bahirparimarjana Cikitsā, effectively alleviated Vāta Vyādhi-related symptoms. Guduchyādi Taila and Mṛttikādi bricks exhibited Vāta-hara, anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects while steam application facilitated the reduction of stiffness. These preliminary findings support the clinical use of Guduchyādi Taila Abhyanga and Kumbhi Sweda with modified Mṛttikādi bricks for calcaneal spurs. However, larger controlled studies are needed to rule out the placebo effect and validate their efficacy and long-term outcomes.