Article: AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF GRIDHRASI WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO SCIATICA: A CASE STUDY

Article Category: Case Reports

DOI: 10.7897/2277-4343.165164

Pages: 30-33

Author: Pranay Singh *, Pankaj Kumar Katara, Rakesh Kumar Majhi

Abstract: Low back pain is among the most common health complaints, affecting nearly 70% to 80% of individuals in India. Among its various causes, intervertebral disc prolapse is the leading one, often resulting in pain that radiates to the leg, buttock, or hip—characteristic features of Sciatica syndrome. In Ayurvedic literature, Sciatica is correlated with Gridhrasi, a predominant Vata disorder described in classical texts. Aims and Objectives: The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of Ayurvedic treatment in managing Gridhrasi (Sciatica). Materials and Methods: A single case study was conducted on a 36-year-old married male who presented to an Ayurvedic hospital with Gridhrasi affecting both lower limbs for the past one day. He had a prior diagnosis of degenerative spondylotic changes in the lumbosacral spine. The patient underwent a ten-day Panchakarma regimen comprising Abhyanga, Patra Pinda Swedana, Kati Basti, and Matrabasti, along with Shamana Chikitsa. The study followed the International Council for Harmonisation (ICH) – Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines. Results: Upon follow-up, significant improvement was observed in the patient’s symptoms and overall quality of life. Conclusion: Ayurvedic management proved effective in alleviating the symptoms of Gridhrasi (Sciatica).

Keyword: Gridhrasi, Sciatica, Abhyanga, Swedana, Patra Pinda Swedana, Kati Basti, Shamana Chikitsa.