Sunitha P V

Athletic performance is closely linked to physical health, endurance and injury prevention. Conventional sports medicine primarily focuses on physiotherapy, orthopedic interventions and rehabilitation. However, an integrated, holistic approach is required to optimize recovery and long-term well-being which forms the basis for Sports Ayurveda. Ayurveda offers personalized injury management for both acute and chronic sports injuries by following basic Ayurvedic treatment principles and also uses valuable insights by eminent physicians. This could be in the form of internal medication, various kriyakrama and dietary advices to aid in musculoskeletal healing. Ayurvedic rehabilitation strategies combined with modern techniques enhance recovery and promote overall well-being.

Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, is one of the oldest medical traditions in the world, offering holistic approaches to health and wellness. Sports medicine is a specialized field that focuses on physical fitness, injury prevention and the management of sports-related conditions. While Ayurveda does not explicitly mention sports medicine as a distinct discipline, its principles can be effectively applied to enhance athletic performance and prevent injuries. By carefully analyzing Ayurvedic texts, we can derive valuable insights into the management of sports-related issues through concepts such as Dinacharya (daily regimen), Ritucharya (seasonal regimen), Ahara-Vihara (diet and lifestyle) and Oushadha (herbal formulations). Additionally, through Dasavidha Pareeksha, particularly Prakriti Pareeksha, Ayurveda can help in selecting suitable sports activities based on an individual's constitution, thereby optimizing performance and reducing the risk of injuries. This review aims to explore hidden references within Ayurveda that contribute to the field of sports medicine and highlight its potential in promoting overall physical and mental well-being in athletes.