Ayurvedic Case Study for Knee & Hip Pain

Ayurvedic Treatment Case study at Elephant Pass

Case Study: Management of Left Knee and Left Hip Joint Pain and Stiffness through Ayurvedic intervention

Guest Name: V Bharathi

Age/Gender: 47 years / Female

Occupation: Engineer

Date of admission:24/01/2026

Presenting Concerns

Patient C/o pain over left knee joint and left hip joint since 6 months.

Knee & Hip Pain Relief in 6 Months

A 47‑year‑old engineer with post‑fall pain and stiffness in the left knee and hip, plus clinical signs of Sandhigata Vata, achieved clear reduction in pain, crepitus, and movement restriction, with better walking and daily functioning after a structured Ayurvedic program.

Panchakarma for Degenerative Joint Pain

Targeted therapies—including Dhanyamla Dhara, Choorna/Pinda Sweda, Kati Basti, localized Abhyanga, Matra Basti, and Lepana—were sequenced to calm Vata, nourish joints, and ease inflammation in the knee–hip complex without adverse effects.

Long-Term Joint Care at Home

At discharge, the guest was advised simple home measures—Vata‑pacifying diet, joint‑friendly exercises, yoga and meditation, external oil applications, and rock‑salt Sweda—to maintain mobility, prevent overstrain, and slow further degeneration.

History of presenting complaints

Patient was apparently normal before 6 months.One day she had a fall hitting left side of body.She felt pain and took medications but got only temporary relief.Now pain again reappeared.For this ,she came here for better Ayurvedic management.

Abstract

Joint pain involving the knee and hip is a common presentation in middle-aged and elderly patients, often associated with degenerative and inflammatory conditions. This case study highlights the effective management of left knee and left hip joint pain and stiffness through Ayurvedic interventions, including Panchakarma and internal medications. Significant improvement was observed in pain, mobility, and functional independence.

Past Medical History

Known case of Sjögren’s syndrome
No diabetes or hypertension
No surgical interventions

Personal history

Bowel – Regular
Appetite- Moderate
Micturition-Normal
Sleep- sound

General examination

Vitals:within normal limits
Systemic examination

Left Knee Joint:

Tenderness: Present
Crepitus: Present
Range of Movements : Painful and restricted

Left Hip Joint:

Stiffness: Present
Range of Movements : Mildly restricted
Tenderness: Mild

Treatment plan

Ayurvedic Assessment

Prakriti: Vata-Kapha
Vikriti: Vata aggravation
Affected Srotas: Asthivaha, Majjavaha
Diagnosis: Sandhigata Vata

Treatment plan

Day1

Dhanyamla dhara
Netra pichu – triphala ghritha

Day 2,Day 3,Day 4

Choorna Linda sweda
Kati basti- Kottamchukkadi taila

Day 5

Udwarthanam and Bashpa sweda
Sthanika patra pinda sweda- Dhanwantharam taila

Day 6

Udwarthanam and Bashpa sweda

Day 7,Day 8

Udwarthanam and Bashpa sweda
Sthanika patra pinda sweda- Dhanwantharam taila

Day 9

Kati basti- Dhanwantharam taila/Kottamchukkadi taila and Nadi sweda
Jambeera pinda sweda and Abhyanga- Kottamchukkadi taila

Day 10

Shirodhara– Asanvilwadi taila
Choorna pinda sweda

Day 11

Shirodhara- Asanvilwadi taila
Choorna pinda sweda
Lepana

Day 12,Day 13,Day 14,Day 15

Sthanika abhyanga -Dhanwantharam taila
Matra basthi-Mahanarayana taila Lepana

Results

Significant reduction in knee and hip pain
Improved joint mobility and flexibility
Better walking ability and daily functioning
Reduced stiffness and discomfort
No adverse effects observed

Discharge medicine

Thriphala Choorna-1/2 tsp in 1 glass water-Bed time
Kottamchukkadi taila + Karpooradi taila- For external application
Neerkovai mathirai- For external application with lemon extract

Lifestyle & Diet Advice

Avoid excessive walking and strain
Maintain healthy body weight
Practice regular joint-friendly exercises
Yoga and meditation
Sweda with rock salt kizhi
Follow Vata-pacifying diet (warm, nourishing foods)

Case Study Conclusion

Ayurvedic management demonstrates significant efficacy in treating degenerative joint conditions involving the knee and hip. Early diagnosis and comprehensive care can prevent progression and improve quality of life.

Ayurveda, Yoga & Varma Therapy FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Ayurveda help if my knee and hip pain started after a fall?

Yes. In this case, the guest’s left knee and hip pain began after a fall and then evolved into chronic, degenerative‑type pain with stiffness, consistent with Sandhigata Vata. The Ayurvedic approach addressed both the post‑traumatic origin and progressive Vata aggravation using Dhanyamla Dhara, Kati Basti, Sweda, local Abhyanga, Matra Basti, and internal medicines. This combination reduced pain, crepitus, and stiffness and improved walking ability, showing that even trauma‑triggered pain can respond well when treated systematically rather than symptom‑by‑symptom.

How was this case diagnosed as Sandhigata Vata in Ayurveda terms?

The guest had tenderness, crepitus, and painful, restricted movement in the left knee, along with stiffness and mild restriction in the left hip, on a background of Vata‑Kapha Prakriti and Vata aggravation. In Ayurveda, this pattern aligns with Janu Sandhigata Vata (knee) and Katigraha/hip involvement, with Asthivaha and Majjavaha srotas affected. These findings guided the selection of Vata‑pacifying and joint‑nourishing therapies such as Kati Basti with Kottamchukkadi/Dhanwantharam taila, Patra Pinda Sweda, Matra Basti with Mahanarayana taila, and Shaddharanam for internal correction.

Is it safe to take Ayurvedic treatment for joint pain if I already have an autoimmune condition like Sjögren’s?

In this case, the guest had a known history of Sjögren’s syndrome, yet tolerated the Ayurvedic protocol well with no adverse effects reported. The treatment plan was tailored to her overall condition—using gentle external therapies, carefully chosen oils, and moderate internal medicines—while keeping vitals and systemic responses under close observation. For anyone with autoimmune disease, it is essential to share full medical history and medications, so the Ayurvedic doctor can adjust intensity, avoid aggravating factors, and, if needed, coordinate with your rheumatologist or primary physician.

How quickly can I expect relief from knee and hip pain with a plan like this?

Here, over a 15‑day structured program, the guest experienced significant reduction in knee and hip pain, better joint mobility, easier walking, and less stiffness. Acute trauma improves faster; degenerative changes usually respond over weeks rather than days, with the most noticeable changes often appearing after several consecutive therapy days (e.g., after repeated Choorna/Patra Pinda Sweda, Kati Basti, and Matra Basti). Long‑term stability then depends on following discharge medicines and lifestyle advice consistently.

What should I do at home to maintain the improvements after discharge?

The discharge plan in this case included Triphala choorna at bedtime, external application of Kottamchukkadi + Karpooradi taila, and Neerkovai mathirai with lemon extract, along with clear lifestyle advice. To maintain benefits, guests are asked to avoid excessive walking and strain, keep a healthy body weight, practise joint‑friendly exercises, yoga, and meditation, and occasionally use warm rock‑salt Sweda at home. A Vata‑pacifying diet—warm, freshly cooked, lightly spiced, and nourishing—helps prevent dryness and stiffness from returning, supporting the joints over the long term.

Our Ayurveda & Wellness Services

At Elephant Pass Ayurveda & Yoga Retreat, we offer a complete range of authentic Ayurvedic treatments and holistic wellness programs designed to restore balance and wellbeing.

Our core services include:

Ayurvedic Doctor Consultations
Panchakarma Detox Programs
Rejuvenation & Wellness Therapies
Stress Management Programs
Weight Management Programs
Ayurveda & Yoga Retreat Packages
Personalized Lifestyle Correction Programs

All treatments are customized after detailed consultation with our Ayurvedic doctors to ensure each guest receives a personalized healing experience.

Guests can choose from short-term wellness retreats or long-duration therapeutic programs depending on their health goals.

Start with a Free Ayurvedic Doctor Consultation

If you’re living with psoriasis, eczema, acne, or sensitive skin and want to know whether the Skin Healing Program at Elephant Pass could help, start with a free Ayurvedic doctor consultation.

Our doctor will review your skin history, triggers, and current treatment, explain how an Ayurvedic skin‑healing retreat works, and suggest a realistic stay length and plan that fits your condition and medical care.

Medical Disclaimer –All Ayurvedic consultations and treatments at Elephant Pass are provided by qualified Ayurvedic doctors as part of traditional Ayurvedic medical practice. The information on this page is for general awareness about our services and does not replace a personal consultation, diagnosis, or treatment plan from our doctors or your other healthcare providers. Always discuss your individual health condition, current medications, and treatment options directly with a qualified doctor before making medical decisions or changing any ongoing treatment.

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   Robert M 
 
 
 
 Verified  Elephant Pass Ayurvida and Yoga Centre
Elephant Pass Ayurvida and Yoga Retreat is a calm, relaxed resort in a beautiful setting. Don't expect to see any elephants, they're a little further up the road. The staff were very helpful. My friend and I stayed for two nights (we were in transit at the time) and practiced Yoga in the morning and also took on a relaxing full body massage. The rooms are basic but adequate. As hungry cyclists we would have preferred more food options with the meals (don't expect a full on buffet) but the staff did make an effort to supply some addional requested items for our dietary needs. We booked late and all in all this was a nice quiet unfussed place to stay with beautiful sunsets thrown in too.
  
 
 
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   Dasha - Sun of Beach 
 
 
 
 Verified  A place with a Soul
My stay at Elephant Pass was a very calm and grounding experience. Life here follows a natural and gentle daily rhythm that quickly feels comfortable. The position of the building itself is just perfect: while it is hot, there is a natural shadow and you can stay freely out of your room. At the same time you can e joy both - the morning and the afternoon sun for sunbathing. In the morning wake up to birds singing, with no traffic or noise, only greenery and the river nearby. The day starts with morning yoga. The teacher is very well educated, with a strong theoretical background, and always available for questions. She explains the body, breathing and yoga principles in a clear and thoughtful way, which adds a lot of depth to the practice. After yoga, there is time for a short walk through the nearby village. The local people are kind, open and welcoming. Bringing small gifts or treats from your home country is a lovely idea and is always appreciated. Breakfast is served either indoors or in a gazebo by the river. You can quietly watch birds flying and singing while enjoying freshly prepared Ayurvedic food. The meals are simple, traditional and extremely fresh. Everything feels clean, safe and nourishing. As a sophisticated traveller I can confirm that. Later in the morning, the first treatment takes place. The therapist is gentle, attentive and professional, and the sessions are relaxing and comfortable. After some rest, lunch is served, followed by a second treatment later in the afternoon. In the evening, yoga focuses on relaxation, breathing and meditation. After dinner, the day naturally slows down, and you go to sleep early, falling asleep and waking up to the sounds of nature. The rooms are spacious, very clean and comfortable. Air conditioning works perfectly, and there is always hot water with good water pressure. Every evening, the entire property is gently fumigated with natural herbs, which keeps insects away. This makes outdoor dining comfortable, and during my ten-day stay I did not see a single insect in my room. The location is also convenient. The retreat is not far from the airport (Cochin) and the transfer is easy and not tiring. I truly believe this place has a soul. And its soul is the people who work here! Their warmth, care and presence are what make Elephant Pass a special and meaningful place to stay.
  
 
 
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   pammiewallis 
 
 
 
 Verified  A great experience
Staying at the elephant pass resort was an unforgettable experience Accommodation food treatments and professional people quite amazing. I just wish I could have stayed longer. This place is a special gem. Thank you
  
 
 
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   Kiran A 
 
 
 
 Verified  Worth the journey
Amazing location. Epitomises the term ‘God’s own country’ perfectly. Fantastic massage and treatment options. Good vegetarian food. Extremely helpful and supportive staff. Highly recommend the property for a break to recharge your batteries.
  
 
 
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   Kate S 
 
 
 
 Verified  Positive and healthy
We had wonderful experience here- staff super professional and warm but discreet/excellent Ayurvedic treatments and doctor- family vibe with kind and incredibly efficient -Near airport- peaceful by river - simple and easy organization- yoga master knows his stuff- I advise a little practice at home before starting yoga there - I went without practice for ages so very stiff! Would stay longer next time- the treatments were so good- best ever! People adorable ???? thank you ????????
  
 
 
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   Alexis S 
 
 
 
 Verified  Relax and disconnect in tropical paradise
I spent one week at Elephant Pass and thoroughly enjoyed my stay. The location is absolutely stunning, set along the Periyar River, and offers a truly peaceful and serene atmosphere. The resort grounds are beautifully maintained and enhance the sense of calm throughout the property. What truly made my experience special was the staff. Everyone was exceptionally kind, friendly, and welcoming, and they went out of their way to make my stay memorable. I felt deeply relaxed and rejuvenated after my Ayurvedic treatments, and I appreciated that the doctor checked in on me almost every day. The food was another highlight—delicious, varied, and full of wonderful local flavors. While the rooms could benefit from some modernization, the overall experience more than made up for it. I would definitely recommend Elephant Pass for the warmth of the staff, the quality of the food, and the overall sense of care and tranquility.
  
 
 
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تجربة من أجمل ما يكون! المكان هادئ بشكل يخليك ترتاح من أول لحظة. الطبيعة حوالينك خيال، والنهر يعطي إحساس رايق وطاقة إيجابية. العاملين محترمين جدًا وتعاملهم راقٍ ويهتمّون بكل التفاصيل. جلسات الأيورفيدا كانت مريحة ومفيدة بشكل كبير، والأكل صحي ولذيذ. الجو العام كله يساعد على الاسترخاء وتجديد الطاقة. باختصار: مكان يستحق الزيارة وبقوة، وراح أرجع له أكيد.
  
 
 
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   Susanne K 
 
 
 
 Verified  Wonderful Ayurveda & Yoga experience at Elephant Pass Resort
We had 11 days at Elephant Pass next to the holy river Peribavour with daily Ayurvedic treatments, massage and yoga morning and night. We woke up every morning with stunning birdsong and running squirrels in the lovely garden. Our yoga teacher was brilliant. All staff very kind, professional and service minded. The massage and treatments were great. Food all together vegetarian and Indian was a true experience. We can strongly recommend a stay at Elephant Pass.
  
 
 
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   Cruiser36282376745 
 
 
 
 Verified  Wonderful , serene , peceful escape to stay .. very rare at this price !!
Location and atmosphere was serene very peaceful place , staff is exceptional , food is pure veg and tasty but not hard on your body Its a scenic ans serene place .. quiet .. therapist know how to massage acc to ayurveda ...Dr. Honey was there for time to time treatment related issues .. cant forget Vishnu , purshottam kaka ,chef, sentil therapist ,female therapist ,housekeeping staff were kind enough to take care of all your needs tried there level best ... at last but not least thanks to Mr. Stepehen ans Mrs Simi the owner couple were very courteous and hospitable ..rooms are value to money satyed in cottage category it had a small living space a bedrrom and a bathroom though no powder room but full value for money ... though its a open prperty but it was clean especially the bed linens and towel there was no foul smell and all clean ... i needed water as only prefer certain type so staff specially went to near airport place and brought it for me actually it took hrs to them to bring
  
 
 
  
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   Olivia Misuraca 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  I had the pleasure of staying at this Resort which I had originally planned to stay at for five days but ended up extending for two weeks. The location of the Resort is right beside the beautiful river which every afternoon you can see the most exquisite sunsets. It’s quite relaxed and if you’re looking for a place that is amongst nature like I was this is the place to be.
The rooms are spacious and clean, the staff are friendly and go out of their way to help you. They even hosted a cooking class and took us on day trips as well. I took a full board package while I was staying there and the food was absolutely delicious and also they gave a large variety of different dishes.

The only downside to this place would be that the Wi-Fi was very slow so maybe keep that in mind if that is something that’s really important to you. But in all it is a fantastic place to stay.
  
 
 
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   Julie Holmes 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  We stayed for 17 nights. We signed up for the rejuvenating package of two daily treatments. All meals and herbal drinks. On site doctors visits.Two sessions of daily yoga and meditation.
We enjoyed the food. The team led by Thomas are great,  nothing is too much trouble. My therapist Nimisha was gentle and professional. Dr Sara helped to calm my anxious husband. When we arrived we were stressed from a difficult year having moved house. After a week our health mentally and physically improved.
We met lovely people and we felt part of a warm caring family. We loved the river and peaceful surroundings, where the many birds came, the fish jumped and the locals fished and bathed in the holy Perivar river. We really slowed down. We had a cookery demonstration a typical buffet meal served on a palm leaf. We also had a couple of trips to St Thomas Church, a temple in the forest and a longer road trip to Fort Cochin. We would thoroughly recommend this place to restore peace and vitality into your life. My skin, hair and nails are glowing first time in ages. My husband seems calmer and healthier. He celebrated his 76 th birthday and we had a lovely cake and small party.
A big thanks to Thomas the manager for sorting out everything. Dr Sara for starting and monitoring our health. Dr Archanaraj for the yoga particularly the breathing exercises.  Saneesh for the delicious food. Saratha for the gentle service. Pushottsma for his maintenance. Nimisha for my treatments, Shinto for collecting flowers and administering my husband’s treatments. Vishnu for accompanying us out to the bank. The owners for a their attention.
  
 
 
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   Pammie Wallis 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  I had the great pleasure of staying at elephant pass resort.  It was a fabulous experience in fantastic calm and beautiful surroundings
The food was so tasty varied and vegetarian cooked with imagination.  The treatments were given so professionally and oh so wonderful.  There were two knowledgeable and most helpful doctors on hand.   The whole experience amazing and I enjoyed every moment.  Thank you
  
 
 
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   George Thomas 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  A serene and quiet place having a beautiful riverside and good hospitality. You too can enjoy good sun set in the evening
  
 
 
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   CA Pooja Shrivastava 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  I recently did a 3 day retreat at this resort and I must say it was fabulous. The resort is situated at the most beautiful serene location.  I had a very relaxing and rejuvenating stay. The food was amazing, the staff was exceptionally warm and helpful, special shout out to the sever Mr Shrey (sorry if I am mis-spelling his name), the ayurvedic treatment and yoga was super relaxing both mentally and physically.
Highly recommend this place.
  
 
 
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   Kiran Aghanashinikar 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  Amazing location. Epitomises the term ‘God’s own country’ perfectly.  Fantastic massage and treatment options. Good vegetarian food. Extremely helpful and supportive staff. Highly recommend the property for a break to recharge your batteries.
  
 
 
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   Sughosh Kunj 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  Very efficient and personalised experience. Dr. Sara was very helpful! Purshottam sir is very polite. Left the place much healthier and calmer!
  
 
 
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   mrigakshi mehta 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  Beautiful place and so close to nature , would love to come back again
  
 
 
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   Alexis Strader 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  I spent one week at Elephant Pass and thoroughly enjoyed my stay. The location is absolutely stunning, set along the Periyar River, and offers a truly peaceful and serene atmosphere. The resort grounds are beautifully maintained and enhance the sense of calm throughout the property.

What truly made my experience special was the staff. Everyone was exceptionally kind, friendly, and welcoming, and they went out of their way to make my stay memorable. I felt deeply relaxed and rejuvenated after my Ayurvedic treatments, and I appreciated that the doctor checked in on me almost every day.

The food was another highlight—delicious, varied, and full of wonderful local flavors. While the rooms could benefit from some modernization, the overall experience more than made up for it. I would definitely recommend Elephant Pass for the warmth of the staff, the quality of the food, and the overall sense of care and tranquility.
  
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Nandagopal senniappan 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  Very nice location with river pass, stay and accommodation are very pleasant..
  
 
 
  
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