Article: MARMA CHIKITSA - A NON-INVASIVE AYURVEDIC APPROACH TO CERVICAL RADICULOPATHY: A CASE STUDY

Article Category: Case Reports

DOI: 10.7897/2277-4343.17241

Pages: 5-8

Author: Aishwarya Rathore *, Rita Marwaha, Nisha Bhalerao, Pankaj Gupta

Abstract: Cervical radiculopathy, commonly known as a “pinched nerve,” occurs due to compression or irritation of a cervical nerve root, leading to radiating neck pain, muscle weakness, and sensory disturbances in the upper limb. In Ayurvedic literature, a condition known as Vishwachi, classified as a Vata-dominant Nanatmaja Vyadhi, presents with clinical features closely resembling cervical radiculopathy, a degenerative disorder of the cervical spine. This case study evaluates the role of Marma Chikitsa as a non-pharmacological therapeutic approach in the management of cervical radiculopathy. A 45-year-old female patient presented with a two-month history of vertigo, neck rigidity, tingling sensations, and pain radiating from the cervical region to the right arm. Clinical examination revealed positive Spurling’s test and neck distraction test, confirming cervical radiculopathy. Conventional management options such as physiotherapy, heat therapy, cervical collars, analgesics, and steroids are commonly employed, however, pharmacological interventions may provide inconsistent relief and are often associated with adverse effects. Since pain significantly interferes with daily activities, effective pain management remains the primary therapeutic goal. Marma Chikitsa was administered by stimulating Kshipra, Indrabasti, Kurpara, Ani, Kakshadhar, Krikatika, and Amsa Marma points. Each Marma received 15–18 stimulations of 0.8 seconds once daily for 15 consecutive days. Post-treatment outcomes demonstrated significant symptomatic improvement, with Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores reducing from 7 to 2 and Neck Disability Index scores improving from 52 to 18. Additional benefits included reduced pain, stiffness, and tingling sensations, improved range of motion, and restoration of hand function. The findings suggest that Marma Chikitsa is a safe, non-invasive treatment option, though larger clinical studies are required to establish its broader efficacy.

Keyword: Cervical radiculopathy, Marma Chikitsa, Marma Sthana, Pain management, VAS score, neck disability index.