A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF PRAMANA SHARIR AND MODERN BIOMETRIC PARAMETERS IN ANATOMICAL AND CLINICAL PRACTICE

Abstract

Background: Pramana Sharir, as described in classical Āyurvedic texts, refers to the anthropometric measurements used to assess the dimensions and proportions of the human body. These traditional methods, although ancient, reflect a scientific approach to anatomical evaluation. In contrast, modern clinical practice utilizes standardized biometric parameters such as BMI, body surface area, and limb ratios. An integrative analysis of these two approaches can offer new insights into clinical diagnostics and personalized medicine. Aim: To compare the concept and applications of Pramana Sharir with modern biometric parameters in anatomical and clinical practice. Objectives: To study the concept of Pramana Sharir from classical Ayurvedic texts. To review standard modern biometric parameters used in anatomy and clinical diagnosis. To identify correlations between Ayurvedic and modern anatomical measurements. To evaluate the clinical relevance of Pramana Sharir in current medical practice. Materials and Methods: This study is based on a literary review of classical Ayurvedic treatises including Charaka Saṃhitā, Suśruta Saṃhitā, and Ashtanga Hṛdaya, along with analysis of modern biometric data from standard anatomy and clinical texts. Comparative analysis was conducted through tabulation and correlation of anatomical landmarks and measurement techniques. Results: There is a notable correlation between specific Pramana measurements (e.g., Anguli Pramāṇa) and modern metrics such as height, arm span, and limb proportions. Traditional methods were found to be predictive of health status, strength, and lifespan, aligning partially with modern concepts like BMI and body proportionality. Conclusion: Pramana Sharir and modern biometric systems, despite being rooted in different paradigms, show significant anatomical and clinical correlations. A synthesis of these approaches could enhance individualized patient care, education, and research in integrative medicine.