Effect of agnikarma on chronic plantar fasciitis- A case report

Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain in adults. It usually results when plantar fascia is got injured from too much pressure or activity. However in most of the cases, the exact cause or triggering event is missing. Although it is a self-limiting condition but due to severity of pain, medical attention is sought. Its management includes use of anti-inflammatory drugs, analgesics, local injections of steroids, physiotherapy, foot wear correction, use of heel pads, cold and hot water fomentations etc. Despite of adequate treatment, the symptoms recur or persist for a long time. Surgical intervention is rarely adopted. The clinical features of this disease simulate with Snayu- Asthi- Sandhigata Vyadhi termed as Vatakantaka by Acharya Sushruta in which the recommended treatment includes local application of Taila (medicated oils), Upnaha (poultice), Agnikarma (therapeutic burning) and Bandhana Karma (bandaging) etc. Here is a case report of a patient who was managed with Agnikarma.