Agnikarma

What is Agnikarma?

Agnikarma is a classical Ayurvedic para-surgical procedure described in the Sushruta Samhita. A trained physician applies controlled, therapeutic heat to specific points on or around the painful area, using a specially prepared instrument, to ease pain and stiffness. It is a precise, supervised procedure and is very different from the everyday idea of “burning”.

How it is understood to work

In Ayurvedic terms, chronic pain and stiffness are linked to an aggravated Vata dosha. Heat applied at the right point is said to pacify it, improve local circulation and relax tight muscle and soft tissue. Many patients notice that pain eases soon after a session; how much and for how long depends on the condition and the individual.

Conditions it is commonly used for

• Heel pain and plantar fasciitis
• Knee pain related to osteoarthritis
• Sciatica and lower-back pain
• Cervical and lumbar spondylosis
• Frozen shoulder and tennis elbow
• Chronic muscle spasm and stiffness

What to expect in a session

1. Assessment — the doctor examines you and marks the points to be treated.
2. The procedure — heat is applied briefly to the marked points. You may feel a short warm or pricking sensation.
3. Soothing application — a cooling or medicated application is placed on the area afterwards.

The procedure itself takes only a few minutes. Small marks can appear at the points and usually fade over days.

Aftercare

• Keep the area clean and avoid scratching or picking at it.
• Avoid very hot water, direct sun and heavy strain on the area for a day or two, as advised.
• Follow any medicines, diet and activity guidance given with your plan.

Is it right for everyone?

Suitability is always assessed first. Extra care is needed with skin infection or disease at the site, bleeding disorders, pregnancy, uncontrolled diabetes or reduced skin sensation, high fever, and in very young or frail patients. Please tell the doctor about all your health conditions and medicines.

Individual results vary. This page is for general education and is not a substitute for a personal consultation — your physician will advise what is suitable for you.