IVDP / Prolapsed (Herniated) Disc Ayurvedic Treatment

When the cushion like substance (disc) between each bone (vertebra) in spine is slipped out from its position, it is called ‘disc prolapse’ or herniated/ prolapsed/ slipped/ ruptured disc or intervertebral disc prolapse (IVDP). Disc prolapse can occur at any part of the spine, but it is most common at lower spine.

IVDP / Prolapsed (Herniated) Disc Signs and Symptoms

In some people, there may not be any symptoms or signs of herniated disc. If they do occur, there are personal differences depending on the site of slipped disc and presence or absence of nerve compression. The common symptoms/ signs are pain over leg (if disc prolapse is at lower spine) or arm (prolapse of disc at upper spine) which often increases when the person cough or sneeze, tingling sensation over arm or leg and muscle weakness

IVDP / Prolapsed (Herniated) Disc Ayurvedic Analysis

When vata get aggravated in pakwashaya (the main site of vata) it causes Katigraha (pain over lower back region).

IVDP / Prolapsed (Herniated) Disc Causative Factors (Ayurveda)

Any factor that causes aggravation of vata is the reason for Katigraha which include age related wear and tear, muscle weakness at the back region (mamsa dhatu kshaya/ reduced quality of muscle tissue), abhighata (trauma), bhara vahana (bearing weight), avoidance of oil application over body, over exertion etc. People with over-weight and obesity are prone to develop this condition.

Possible Complications of IVDP / Prolapsed (Herniated) Disc Disease

Nerve compression inside the spine resulting in numbness of hand or leg, loss of bowel or bladder control and loss of sensation over the buttock and inner thigh region.

Other systemic conditions and precautions to be taken

Before planning the treatment, consider other systemic diseases (eg: hypertension, diabetes) of the patient which may produce adverse effect during panchakarma therapy.

IVDP / Prolapsed (Herniated) Disc Disease Management with Ayurveda Treatment

Internal medication is prescribed for management of vitiated dosha and ama (if present). Internal or external snehana therapy, sweda (steam bath/ other suitable method after assessing the severity of prolapse), virechana (purgation therapy), intermittent Kashaya vasti and anuvasana vasti, brumhana therapy (eg: njavara kizhi), bandaging over affected area, kativasti (retention of medicated oil over the affected area), lumbar weight, supportive treatment like yoga/ physiotherapy etc are the major treatments, but it may vary from patient to patient depending on their state of dosha, prakruthi, occupation, physique, place of residence etc. In order to support mentally weak patient with chronic disease, mediation techniques can also be used.

Diet

Food and drinks that alleviate vitiation of vata are beneficial- milk, small fishes, whole grains, nuts, green leafy vegetables etc. Avoid spicy, cold, heavy to digest, processed and junk food.

Exercise

As per physician’s advice, start mild to moderate exercise that strengthen the back muscles and vertebrae. Exercise helps in reducing the symptoms and improves the joint flexibility.

IVDP / Prolapsed (Herniated) Disc Preventive Aspects in Ayurveda

In order to prevent any kind of vataroga, daily oil massage all over the body is recommended in Ayurveda. Exercise regularly to maintain the strength and flexibility of bones, joints and muscles. Maintain healthy body weight. Avoid sedentary habit, day sleep, bearing heavy objects, travelling often on jerky road and continuous traveling on two-wheeler.

Importance of Diet

During and after the treatment course, the patient should stick on to the diet plan suggested by the physician in order to maintain the result of the treatment as well as prevent the recurrence. Wrong diet will surely worsen the condition even after proper management.

Lifestyle

The person with katigraha should avoid food and activities that increase vata. Avoid sedentary habit. Ensure proper sleep. Exercise regularly. Avoid long drive, travelling on two-wheeler for long period, lay on an even bed with medium thickness, avoid abnormal body postures, use a lumbar belt for support, apply suitable oil all over the spine and bath in hot water, avoid stress, smoking and excess intake of alcohol. Take more wheat, unpolished rice, leafy vegetables, milk, drumstick, sweet fruits, water and small fishes.