Iontophoresis with Aqueous solution of Nirgundi (Vitex negundo, Linn.) in the Management of Pada Kantaka (Plantar Fasciitis) - A Case Report

Abstract

Vata kantaka is recognized as a Vatvyadhi. Walking bare-foot on uneven terrains causes vitiation of Vata which inturn causes pain which is specifically located at the heel of the foot. Vitiated Vata gets localized in Pada and  it produces its characteristic symptom which is pricking pain like a thorn especially in the morning  for first few steps, so as to be called as Vata kantak. Acharya Yogratnakar stated Vata kantaka as Pada kantaka. A 35 years old female patient visited Shalya tantra OPD with complaints of Right heel pain and diagnosed as Plantar fasciitis. 6 sittings of Iontophoresis with Nirgundi Aqueous extract were given on alternate day for 15-20 min. Pain on VAS was 7 before treatment. After treatment the score reduced to 0. Nirgundi is well known  for its analgesic, anti inflammatory, anti rheumatic property. Iontophoresis is a technique which improves the penetration of drug transdermally due to application of  a low voltage current. So the iontophoresis with Nirgundi aqueos solution was found significantly effective in relieving symptoms of Pada kantaka i.e. Plantar fasciitis.