Sandhi (सन्धि)

Sanskrit Verse

द्विविधास्तु सन्धयो चेष्टावन्तः स्थिराश्च।

— (Sushruta Samhita, Sharirasthana 5/30)

Explanation

Sandhi refers to the joints or articulations in the body where two or more bones meet. Sushruta classified them broadly into two types: 1. Cheshtavanta (movable joints, like the knee or elbow) and 2. Sthira (fixed or immovable joints, like the sutures of the skull). He further classified them into eight types based on their shape (e.g., Ulukhala - ball and socket).

Clinical Importance

Anatomy of the joints is fundamental to understanding and treating musculoskeletal disorders like arthritis (Sandhigata Vata). Shleshaka Kapha is the specific sub-dosha responsible for lubricating the joints.