Have you heard of Krostuka Sheersha?

August 01, 2023 2 min read

Have you heard of Krostuka Sheersha?
Hello Ayurveda Students!

Have you heard of Krostuka Sheersha?

What is Krostuka Sheersha?

The knee joint becomes swollen and its shape looks like the head of a fox/ Jackal hence the name. 

This can be translated that the fluid accumulation in the knee makes the knee look like a fox or a jackal’s head.

You might need some imagination for this :)

It is one of the Vatavyadhi’s. 

In modern terminology it can be translated as acute synovitis with an effusion or a mono arthritis of the knee

Both Vata and Rakta get vitiated and cause this ailment.

The pain in the knee can become severe and may increase during the night.

A few days ago we posted about Vatarakta (Gout) which can be a differential diagnosis of Krostuka Sheersha. Vatarakta and Krostuka sheersha have the same dushya (Vata and Rakta).

Be aware that this is a different disease to Vatarakta.

Students keep in mind! 

Vatarakta afflicts the small joints of the body, mostly the big toe or the thumb, while Krostuka Sheersha only affects the knees! 

Symptoms of Vatarakta and Krostuka Sheersha:

    1. Sandhi Shula/ pain in the joints 

    1. Sandhi shotha - swelling in the joints 

    1. Tenderness 

    1. Warmth 

    1. Restricted movements 


Important points to help with the differential diagnosis:

Vatarakta shifting pain can be present 

Vatarakta small joints are affected mainly joints of the feet 

Vatarkata can give an appearance of nodules on the small joints 

The reference for Kroshutka sheersha can be found in Madhava Nidana Chapter 22.

Treatment principles: 

Please refer to the treatment principles of Vatarakta from our previous post. 

Panchakarma especially Virechana is advised. 

Mix Guduchi and Triphala in equal quantities and give this mixture with castor oil and milk 1:4 proportion twice a day (only after consulting your Ayurveda practitioner).

To relieve pain and swelling, apply Vishagarba oil to the joint followed svedana/ sudation therapy. 

Janu basti treatment can be beneficial in the prevention and strengthening of the knee joint. Please be advised this is not suitable in the acute stage.

We offer private mentoring with Karin if you are a student of Ayurveda. To shape our practice as Ayurvedic therapists and practitioners, having a mentor is essential as we grow our knowledge to teach and guide us. With over 15 years of clinic experience, Karin can support you with all things Ayurveda for in person or remote sessions, as well as student clinical placements. Get in touch if this interests you. 

With Love from the Lakshmi Academy 

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#ayurvedfremantle 

#lakshmiayurveda