A Comparative Clinical Study to Evaluate the Efficacy of Naagara Ghrita Nasya and Thinthrini Taila Nasya Followed by Shulahara Kashaya in Apabahuka vis-a-vis Frozen Shoulder

Abstract

Apabahuka is a Vata-pradhana Nanatmaja Vyadhi characterized by Shula (pain), Stambha (stiffness), and restriction of shoulder movements (Bahupraspandita hara). The clinical presentation closely resembles Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis) described in modern medicine. Frozen Shoulder is a common musculoskeletal disorder causing pain and progressive limitation of shoulder movements, significantly affecting quality of life. Objectives: To evaluate and compare the efficacy of Naagara Ghrita Nasya and Thinthrini Taila Nasya followed by Shulahara Kashaya in the management of Apabahuka vis-à-vis Frozen Shoulder. Materials and Methods: A comparative clinical study with pre-, mid- and post-test design was conducted on 40 subjects, divided equally into two groups. Group A received Naagara Ghrita Nasya followed by Shulahara Kashaya with Prakshepaka dravya, while Group B received Thinthrini Taila Nasya followed by the same Shulahara Kashaya regimen. Assessments were done before treatment, after completion of Nasya, and after Shamanoushadi. Statistical analysis was performed using Mann–Whitney U and Wilcoxon matched-pairs tests. Results: Both groups showed statistically significant improvement in pain, stiffness, and shoulder movements. Inter-group comparison revealed no statistically significant difference (p>0.05), though Group B showed marginally better overall improvement. Conclusion: Both Naagara Ghrita Nasya and Thinthrini Taila Nasya followed by Shulahara Kashaya are effective in the management of Apabahuka vis-à-vis Frozen Shoulder. Thinthrini Taila Nasya demonstrated slightly superior clinical outcomes.