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Background

Lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow) is a prevalent musculoskeletal disorder characterized by pain and functional impairment at the lateral epicondyle of the humerus, predominantly resulting from repetitive overuse of wrist extensor musculature. Contemporary evidence classifies it as a degenerative tendinopathy involving angiofibroblastic hyperplasia rather than a purely inflammatory condition [1,2]. Conventional management includes NSAIDs, physiotherapy, corticosteroid injections, and platelet-rich plasma therapy; however, recurrence, incomplete relief, and adverse effects remain significant concerns [3,4]. In Ayurveda, this condition correlates with Snayugata Vata or localized Koorpara Sandhigata Vata, where aggravated Vata Dosha affects Snayu (tendons), producing pain, stiffness, and restricted movement [5,6].

Objective

To evaluate the clinical effectiveness and safety of a multimodal Ayurvedic therapeutic protocol in patients diagnosed with lateral epicondylitis.

Methods

A prospective, open-label, single-center observational study was conducted at Orthoved Hospital on 120 patients (aged 30–60 years) with clinically confirmed lateral epicondylitis. The six-week intervention comprised Tab Tendon, Tab Panchavaktra, Tab Sallaki (each 400 mg TDS), Orthofite Oil (local application, twice daily), and an elbow guard during working hours.

Results

Of 120 enrolled patients, 110 completed the study. Complete relief was achieved in 85 patients (77.3% of completers), moderate improvement in 18 (16.4%), no relief in 5 (4.5%), and worsening in 2 (1.8%). The overall response rate was 93.6% among completers and 85.8% of total enrolled. Adverse events were minimal, with mild acidity in approximately 5% of patients.

Conclusion

The multimodal Ayurvedic regimen demonstrated substantial clinical effectiveness in the conservative management of lateral epicondylitis, offering a safe integrative therapeutic option warranting further controlled investigation.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Conservative management, Lateral epicondylitis, Sallaki, Snayugata Vata, Tendinopathy, Tennis elbow