AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF PLANTAR KERATODERMA (VIPADIKA KUSHTHA): A CASE REPORT

Skin diseases are among the leading causes of non-fatal disease burden worldwide. In Ayurveda, all skin disorders are classified under Kushtha Roga. Vipadika Kushtha, one of its types, is characterized by fissuring of palms and soles associated with pain, dryness, and thickening of skin.An elderly female presented with gradually progressive thickening of the plantar skin over both soles for 2 years, associated with deep fissures and severe pain. There was no family history of similar illness. The patient had not responded to conventional treatment including methotrexate, retinoids, and topical steroids. Based on clinical features, the condition was diagnosed as Vipadika Kushtha. The treatment protocol included internal medications along with external therapies such as Triphala decoction wash, leech application, and local application of Jatyadi Ghrita. After 12 weeks of Ayurvedic management, marked improvement was observed in hyperkeratosis, fissuring, area of involvement, and pain, with grading reduced from 3, 3, 3, 4 to 1, 0, 0, 0 respectively. This case highlight the potential of Ayurvedic interventions in managing chronic, conventional treatment resistant plantar keratoderma, offering a safe and effective alternative approach for symptom relief and improved quality of life.