Abstract*

Arthritis is described in Unani system of medicine under a broad term Waja-ul-Mafasil which encompasses entire joint disorders like inflammatory, non-inflammatory, infectious, metabolic and other musculoskeletal disorders. With the advent of science and technology, modern classification has separated these individually according to their etiopathology. On deep insight of Unani literature, arthritis can be correlated with various types of Waja-ul-Mafasil in resemblance to the predisposing factors, aggravating factors and pattern of joint involvement. Unani system of Medicine is based upon Hippocrates’s theory of four humours (Akhlat). According to Unani concept, the pathological changes in the joints are caused mainly by derangement of humoural temperament and accumulation of Mawad-e-Fasida (Morbid material) in the joint spaces. The derangement may be simple, causing only functional disturbance of articular surfaces, or it may be compound in which organic disturbance and quantitative changes take place in the joints. The aim of treatment for patient with Waja-ul-Mafasil is to reduce morbidity and disability. The principle of treatment aims at restoring the normal temperament, and correcting the imbalance in the Khilt (humour) through Imala (Diversion of morbid material) and Istifraagh (Evacuation of morbid material). Hijamah (Cupping therapy) is a regimenal mode of treatment recommended by eminent Unani physicians for the management of Waja-ul-Mafasil, serve the both purposes. Based on modern parameters, Hijamah (Cupping therapy) has been proven beneficial in the improvement of various signs and symptoms of the arthritis. As an adjuvant therapy Hijamah provides significant improvement in pain and has a marked effect in improving the quality of life. It has immunomodulatory effect that could be used as monitoring tool for disease activity and prognosis.