Abstract

CLINICAL MANAGEMENT OF VATAPRAKOPA-JANYA GRIDHRASI (SCIATICA) VIA TARGETED SIRAVEDH (VENEPUNCTURE) AND SUPPORTIVE ORAL COMPLEMENTARY FORMULATIONS: A CARECOMPLIANT CASE REPORT

Dr. Barkha Rani Gaud*, Prof. Dr. Anumarlapudi Jayaram, Prof. Dr. Babu Ram Tripathi, Prof. Dr. Elizabeth P. John

Abstract

Background: Gridhrasi is a major musculoskeletal disorder categorized under the eighty Nanatmaja Vatavyadhis in Ayurveda. It closely resembles the modern clinical entity of Sciatica, typically caused by lumbar intervertebral disc herniation, canal stenosis, or nerve root compression, affectingN approximately 40% of the global population at some point during their lives. The hallmark presentation involves severe pain radiating from the lumbar region through the gluteal area down to the foot (Ruk), accompanied by stiffness (Stambha),pricking sensations (Toda), and a distinct "vulture-like" gait (Sakthinikshepanigraha). While modern medicine relies heavily on Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)and invasive decompressive surgeries, this case study explores the rapid efficacy of Siravedh (venepuncture), considered by Acharya Sushruta to be the Ardha-Chikitsa (half-treatment) of Shalya Tantra, coupled with supportive conservative oral treatments. Case Presentation: A 33-year-old female housewife presented with a two-year history of excruciating, radiating pain in her left lower extremity, combined with persistent lower back stiffness and difficulty walking, rendering her refractory to standard analgesics. Clinical checks confirmed a positive Straight Leg Raising (SLR) test at 45° on the left side, along with localized nerve tenderness. She was treated using an integrated intervention map consisting of localized Siravedh (venepuncture) performed at the Janu Sandhi across three therapeutic sittings spaced 14 days apart, accompanied by continuous oral administration of Yogaraja Guggulu, Rasnadi Guggulu, and Maharasnadi Kashaya. Results: The patient achieved an immediate post-procedural reduction in pain and muscle guarding. By Day 45, her Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) pain score dropped from 8/10 to 1/10, and her left-sided SLR mobility improved back to 85°. Functional walking parameters and body alignment returned to normal without any adverse operational incidents. A 12-month post-treatment follow-up documented complete relief with zero symptom recurrence. Conclusion: This case study highlights Siravedh combined with targeted oral Vata-hara drugs as a highly effective, cost-efficient, fast-acting, and safe ambulatory protocol for managing long-standing, refractory Gridhrasi.

Keywords: Gridhrasi, Sciatica, Siravedh, Raktmokshan, Anushastra Karma, Case Report, CARE Guidelines.