EVIDENCE-BASED INTEGRATIVE REHABILITATION ON ROTATOR CUFF INJURIES: AN APPROACH COMBINING MODERN ORTHOPEDIC CONCEPTS, PHYSIOTHERAPEUTIC EXERCISES, AND AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT

Abstract

Rotator cuff (RC) injuries are a common cause of shoulder pain and functional impairment, affecting up to 16–26% of adults [1]. Overhead work, aging and metabolic factors (e.g. diabetes) predispose to tendon degeneration. Modern management (NSAIDs, injections, structured physiotherapy) yields symptom relief but incomplete recovery. In Ayurveda, such shoulder syndromes are mapped to Snāyugata Vāta and Avabahuka, Vata-dominant disorders of tendons and shoulder. This review integrates orthopedic and Ayurvedic concepts: it outlines epidemiology, anatomy, and combined etiopathogenesis; highlights clinical features and diagnostic tests; and details stage-wise interventions. An evidence-based phased exercise programme is described (with strengthening, mobility and stabilization exercises [6]), alongside Ayurvedic treatments Abhyanga (oil massage), Swedana (fomentation) Nasya, Basti (enemas), Agnikarma, and rasayana medicines [7] [8]. We propose a 3-stage integrative protocol and note gaps in high-quality evidence for Ayurvedic therapies, recommending rigorous trials to validate combined rehabilitation strategies.