Management of High-grade Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tear: A Case Report on Integrating Physiotherapy and Ayurvedic Therapy

Abstract

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) tears are frequently managed surgically in conventional medicine; however, some patients seek alternative treatments due to personal preferences or contraindications. This case presents a 55-year-old male who suffered a high-grade complete ACL tear following a road traffic accident and fall. Despite recommendations for surgical intervention from multiple allopathic surgeons based on Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) findings, the patient opted for an integrative approach combining Ayurvedic herbal and Panchakarma therapies with physiotherapy. The Ayurvedic treatment aimed to reduce inflammation, promote tissue regeneration, and enhance joint stability, utilising herbal medicines and therapeutic procedures such as snehana (oleation), basti (therapeutic enema), alepa (external application), and upanaha swedana (poultice). Concurrently, physiotherapy focused on strengthening the surrounding musculature, improving Range of Motion (ROM), and enhancing functional mobility. Over the treatment period, the patient experienced substantial pain relief, reduced knee swelling, and significant improvement in functional ability, enabling a return to daily activities without surgical intervention. This case underscores the efficacy and feasibility of an integrative approach in managing ACL tears, providing a holistic non surgical option for patients who are reluctant or unsuitable for conventional surgical interventions.

Keywords

• joint stability
• oleation
• physiotherapy
• therapeutic enema