Abstract

HOLISTIC AYURVEDIC APPROACH TO GRIDHRASI: FROM NIDAN TO CHIKITSA

Dr. Vaishali Haribhau Shinde*, Dr. Vidya R. Naik

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Abstract

Background: Gridhrasi (Sciatica) globally affects 2–5% of the population annually. Lifetime incidence ranges from 13–40%. It is most common between 30–60 years. The risk factors of this disease includes lumbar disc herniation (most common cause, 70–90% of cases), degenerative spinal disorders, sedentary lifestyle & poor ergonomics, obesity and occupations involving heavy lifting or prolonged sitting. Economic & Social Burden -Leading cause of workplace absenteeism and disability associated with significant healthcare costs, including physical therapndirect costs arise from lost productivity and chronic pain management. It is recognized as a major contributor to low back pain burden, which is among the top causes of years, lived with disability (YLDs) worldwide (Global Burden of Disease Study 2021). Increasing prevalence in sedentary populations especially in industrialized area. Aims & Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness of Ayurvedic treatment in Gridhrasi. Materials and Methods: Single case study of a 56yr old married female patient came to Hospital with complaints of pain from lower back radiating towards left foot, pain in right leg, numbness in both hands, difficulty in walking since 10 yrs. She also had complaints of pain in both knee joints, backache these symptoms were associated with burning sensation in epigastric region, nausea and general weakness from one month. She had one month of Panchakarma therapy, which included Abhyanaga Swedana, Pinda Swedana, and Basti in combination with Shamana Chikitsa. Results: After a month, the patient's symptoms were assessed, and the outcomes were good. The patient's general quality of life had also greatly improved. Conclusion: The mentioned treatment reduces Gridhrasi symptoms significantly.

Keywords: Ghridrasi, Sciatica, Abhyanga, Swedana, Pinda Swedana, Anuvasana Basti, Shamana chilitsa.