Ayurvedic Treatment of Vipadika (Kshudra Kushtha) - A Case Study

Abstract

Vipadika or Vaipadika is explained as one among Eleven Kshudra Kushtas (Minor skin ailments) which has the features of Paani-paada sputana (Cracking of palms and soles) associated with Teevravedana (Intense pain) as explained by Acharya Charaka. Based on the features the major dosha (Bio-forces of human body) involved is Vata along with Pitta and Kapha. Acharya Sushruta also explains it under Kshudra Kushta (Minor skin ailments) but with a different name called Padadaari. Though Vipadika sounds like a milder disease still it can be physically and emotionally stressful to the sufferer as in this present case. This is a case report of a 34 yrs female suffering with severe pain, itching and blackish discoloration of skin at both soles and left palm from the past 10 years. Due to various medications and chronic pain, patient was mentally sick too. The case was treated with Shodana (Bio purification) followed by shamana (Pacification) line of treatment along with significant lifestyle modifications. The uniqueness of the study lies in the selection of Shodhana (Bio purification)  where instead of Basti, Virechana is opted. Though it is a chronic case, the patient was able to get relieved within a month which created a promising faith towards Ayurvedic treatment.