Abstract

AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF LOW BACK PAIN: A CASE REPORT

Dr. Manorma Singh*

ABSTRACT

Low back pain refers to the pain that usually begins in the lower back region, radiating to the sacroiliac regions and buttocks.[1] Low back pain is one of the most common causes of missed workdays and is now known as a modern international epidemic. In Ayurveda, production of pain is attributed to vitiated Vata Dosha. ‘Kati’ represents the low back region of the body and ‘Shoola’ means pain. Not as an independent disease, Katishoola has been described under the clinical features of various ailments. In modern times, it can be simply interpreted as Low Back Pain. Eighty percent of the population is affected by this symptom at sometimes in the life.[2] Despite of advanced diagnostic tools, definitive etiopathogenesis is difficult to understand and interpret in all the cases of low back pain. Complex mechanism of pain generation may involve a number of factors and requires a multidisciplinary management strategy. The management as per contemporary systems of medicine includes various conservative measures viz. rest, immobilisation, physiotherapy, analgesics, anti – inflammatory drugs, traction and use of corset etc., according to the gravity of disease condition.[3] In recalcitrant and progressive cases surgery may be advisable. Despite of intensive management, the recurrence of symptoms takes place, necessitating a better, safer, economic and more efficacious approach towards the cure. In Ayurveda, a holistic approach has been adopted that includes the use of oral Ayurvedic formulations, Panchakarma procedures like Snehana karma (unction therapy), Swedana karma (sudation therapy) and Basti karma (medicated enemas) etc.[4] In this article a case of low Back Pain treated with Ayurvedic management with good outcomes is reported.

Keywords: Katishoola, Low Back Pain, Vatari Guggulu, Panchakarma.