Ayurvedic intervention as an adjunct therapy in Non-union 5th metatarsal fracture: A case report

Proximal 5th metatarsal (MT) fractures are a common sequel of foot injury and painful nonunion is one of its well-described consequences. The purpose of this study is to present the manifestation and determine the effectiveness of ayurvedic healing measure for symptomatic 5th MT non unions. Here we narrate a case study presented with the painful nonunion of 5th metatarsal bone following failure of conventional management. The subject was investigated for following parameters: (1) injury mechanism; (2) time to solid radiographic union; and (3) time to resume usual activities. The subject was monitored until there was a clear clinical and radiological union. The mechanism of injury in this case was a fall over forefoot with plantar flexion, inversion and abduction. The nonunion was demonstrated in radiograph even after 3 months of fracture. “Sarivadi lepa” (therapeutic application of drug) was used as external application and bandaging to reduce pain, inflammation, and compliment healing process of the fracture along with immobilization. By the end of 60 days, radiograph showed evidence of callus formation and solid radiographic union was demonstrated. The subject resumed to his usual activities after complete union and maintained well till last follow up. Thus, we can claim that Sarivadi bandhana (bandaging) is beneficial in subsiding pain, swelling and to facilitate healing of fracture along with immobilization. We recommend further study on Sarivadi Lepa in larger sample to establish its assistance in fracture healing action.