Abstract

ROLE OF ROOKSHA POORVAKA SINGDHA SWEDA AND LUMBAR TRACTION IN THE MANAGEMENT OF GRIDHRASI (LUMBAR DISC PROLAPSE) - REVIEW ARTICLE

Ashwath S. B.*, Ananta S. Desai Anita Prem and Ahalya S.

ABSTRACT

Vatavyadhi is one of the most common and uprising health problem in our day to day life. Gridhrasi is one among them. Gridhrasi as mentioned in Ayurvedic classics is a disorder, where in pain starts from Sphik Pradesha and radiates downwards to Kati, Prusta, Uru, Janu, Jangha and Pada. The presentation of Gridhrasi is similar in signs and symptoms to that of Sciatica. Estimation have been made that 80% of population suffer from low backache at some points of their life among them 40% of people suffer from Sciatica. It is observed to be prevalent throughout the world ranging from 1.2% to 43%. In contemporary system of medicine, administration of muscle relaxants, NSAID’s, corticosteroids etc gives temporary relief from pain and the last option left is surgery, which has several complications and may even cause permanent loss of working capabilities. Lumbar traction is one of the most effective and non invasive procedure to support noticeable relief in Sciatica. So, here comprehensive review of the Ayurvedic classical texts and modern concept is presented to understand the role of Rooksha Poorvaka Snigdha Sweda with lumbar traction in the management of Gridhrasi.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Sciatica, Gridhrasi, Lumbar Traction, Katipichu.