Role of Ayurveda in the Rehabilitation of Vertebral Fracture: A Case Report

Abstract

Vertebral fractures commonly result from high-impact trauma such as falls, vehicular accidents, and sports injuries, often producing severe pain, functional limitation, and neurological symptoms. Conventional emergency management focuses on stabilization, but persistent low back pain and disability frequently require long-term rehabilitation. This case report presents a 40-year-old male who developed low back pain with radiation to the right lower limb associated with numbness over buttock,  following a fall from a height of 20 feet tree, 2 months back, later diagnosed radiologically as chip fractures of L2, L3, and L4. Assessment suggested a correlation with Kateekaserukasthi Bagnam in Ayurveda with associated Vata aggravation. A comprehensive Ayurvedic treatment protocol was implemented, including bandhana, abhyanga, ooshma sveda, mrdu virechana, kayaseka, matra vasti, and shashtika pinda sveda, along with supportive internal medications for a period of 37 days IP management and 1 month follow up. Over the course of therapy, the patient demonstrated significant reductions in pain(VAS Scale), numbness, and tenderness, with improved range of motion and functional ability. At one-month follow-up, symptoms did not recur, and the patient resumed occupational activity. This case highlights the potential of Ayurveda-based rehabilitation in vertebral fractures by addressing pain, promoting tissue healing, and restoring musculoskeletal strength through Vata-pacifying and Brihmana therapies.