Sciatica Ayurvedic Treatment

Sciatica is a condition characterised by pain starting from lower back or hip and spreading downward through buttock, back side of thigh and sometimes up to leg. Usually only one side is affected. It happens when the sciatic nerve (which starts from lower back and passes to legs) get compressed by outgrowths from vertebrae/ bulged out disc, or trapped within narrow lumen within spine.

Sciatica Signs and Symptoms

Radiating pain from lower back to buttock, back of the thigh and leg is the classical sign of sciatica. Some people may have burning sensation along with pain. Sitting for prolonged period increases the pain. Other symptoms are tingling sensation and numbness over the path of pain.

Sciatica Ayurvedic Analysis

When the kandara (big sized strand of nerve) that passes to sole of leg get attacked by vata, the movements of leg are restricted and is called ‘Gridhrasi’ in Ayurveda. This is one type of vatavyadhi (disease caused by vitiated vata). It occurs when vatadushti occurs in snayu (big long strand like structures that help in joint move).

Sciatica Causative Factors (Ayurveda)

Any factor that results in vitiation of vata causes Gridhrasi. They are over exertion, walking or standing for long period, avoiding oil application over body, over exposure to cold atmosphere, lack of exercise, trauma to lower spine etc.

Possible Complications of Sciatica Disease

Long standing pain, permanent muscle weakness, foot drop (khalwi), walking difficulty, reduced muscle mass on the affected leg, numbness and loss of bowl and bladder control are the common complications of untreated Gridhrasi.

Other systemic conditions and precautions to be taken

Consider any systemic disease of the patient that may interfere with the treatment/ effect of medicine before planning the treatment protocol. Evaluating the physical and mental status is also svery important.

Sciatica Disease Management with Ayurveda Treatment

If ama is present (dosha in immature stage) it is managed with appropriate measures (dhanyamla dhara, churna pinda sweda, valuka sweda etc). Common treatment plan includes snehana therapy (internal/ external/ both), swedana (eg: steam bath, kizhi), virechana (purgation therapy), Kashaya vasti (enema with suitable decoction), anuvasana vasti (enema with suitable oil), kati vasti (local retention of hot medicated oil over spine), hip bandage etc. Physician decides the treatment by assessing a patient’s dosha state, prakruthi, physique, place of residence, occupation, associated diseases and such other factors. Internal medication also differs from patient to patient.

Diet

During the treatment, the patient should consume light food. Ensure adequate water content in body. Avoid curd, meat, spicy food, cold food etc. Take whole grain rice/ wheat, black gram, fruits, garlic, drumstick, milk etc.

Exercise

As per the physician’s advice, do mild to moderate exercise to get relief from pain and numbness. Assisted yoga therapy and physiotherapy are helpful. Brisk walking is also good.

Sciatica Preventive Aspects in Ayurveda

Avoid over-exertion, sitting for a prolonged period, fall on buttock/ injury to lower spine, keeping wallet in the back pocket. Exercise regularly to strengthen the back muscles. Daily oil massage over body can prevent aggravation of vata. Reduce the intake of cold food items, spicy food, curd; avoid skipping food, late night sleep and day-sleep.

Importance of Diet

Right diet can maintain Tridosha in a balanced state. Therefore, proper diet is equally important in the prevention and management of a disease.

Lifestyle

Exercise regularly. Stick on to a healthy diet plan. Maintain body weight within normal range. Massage body with suitable oil before bath daily. Avoid sitting and standing for a long time. Mild purgation with suitable drug is also beneficial. Quit smoking and drinking alcohol. Drink adequate amount of water. Avoid stress and ensure sound sleep.