Category: Sciatica

Ayurvedic Solutions for Sciatica Treatment and Prevention

Abstract

Sciatica is a debilitating condition in which a patient suffers pain and paresthesias in the sciatic nerve distribution. It is commonly referred to as any lower back pain or radicular leg pain. The pain is associated with the pathology of the sciatic nerve or sciatic nerve root pathology. The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body. Pain due to the sciatic nerve will worsen with the flexion of the lumbar spine, twisting, and bending. Motor functioning of lower extremities adductors and hamstring is directed by the sciatic nerve. It also provides indirect motor functioning to the calf muscles and anterior lower leg muscles. The sciatic nerve provides sensation to the lower and posterior aspects of the legs and also the plantar aspect of the feet. Is due to the inflammatory changes in the nerve and causes irritation of the nerve. Direct compression of nerves leads to motor dysfunction. Let’s discuss this in detail!

Introduction

Sciatica is a painful condition in which the sciatic nerve of one or both legs is involved. It is much associated with lower back pain radiating to the legs and affects the movement of the legs. It is a neuromuscular disorder. As per the ayurvedic system of medicine it is known as Gridhrasi. The word Gridhrasi is derived from the word Gridhra which means Vulture ( a bird ). The gait of the patients resembles a vulture that’s why it is known as Gridhrasi. The gait is altered as the legs become tense and slightly curved due to pain. Sciatica is characterised by severe pain just like the pain felt by the prey of the vulture while being eaten up. This painful sensation is due to the vitiation of vata dosha.

Sciatica Pain

SYMPTOMS

  • Pain initiates from the hip area and radiates to the thigh, back, and sacral region.
  • Pain in calf muscles and feet.
  • Pricking sensation in the thigh region.
  • Altered gait.
  • Stiffness over the whole limb.
  • Weakness and numbness over legs and feet.
  • Hard to stand up.

CAUSES

  • Herniated or slipped disc:-   Pressure on the nerve root is caused by herniated or slipped disc. This is one of the most common causes of sciatica.
  • Spinal stenosis:-  It is the abnormal narrowing of the spinal canal. This leads to the narrowing of spaces for the passage of spinal nerves.
  • Spondylolisthesis:-  It is the slippage of one vertebra so that it is out of line one above it and narrows the nerve exit. The extended spinal cord pinches the sciatic nerve.
  • Osteoarthritis:-  Jagged edges of bones compresses the lower back nerves.
  • Trauma:-  Trauma injury to the lumbar spine and sciatic nerve.
  • Muscle Spasm:-  Small muscles that lie in the buttocks become tight and spasm. This can irritate the sciatic nerve.
  • Cauda Equina Syndrome:-  This condition affects the bundle of nerves at the end of the spinal cord. This causes pain down the leg and numbness around the anus.

DIAGNOSIS

1. Physical Examination

The physician will ask you to walk and notice how your spine carries your weight. Later you should be asked to walk on your toes to check the strength of your calf muscles.

1. Leg Raising Test

You have to lie on your back with straight legs. Then you have to slowly raise the legs and determine the point where the pain begins. This helps to identify the disc problems.

2. Radio imaging

  1. X- Rays:- To look for spinal fractures, disc problems, infections, and tumours.
  2. MRI:- MRI can show pressure on nerves, disc herniation, and any arthritic condition.
  3. Electromyography:- This is for examination of electrical impulses and how we’ll travel through the sciatic nerve.
  4. Myelogram:- To determine if a vertebra or bone is causing pain.

AYURVEDIC OVERVIEW OF GRIDHRASI  (SCIATICA )

Ayurveda is an ancient science that believes that a disease is caused due to the vitiation of doshas or by strotas dushti. When the pressure is exerted on the Gridhrasi Nadi ( sciatic nerve ) then there is a sensation of pain from the Kati Pradesh ( Lower back ) to the foot. In this disease, four strotas are being vitiated ( stroto dushti ).

  • Raktavaha strotas
  • Mansvaha strotas
  • Medovaha strotas
  • Pranvaha strotas

Gridhrasi is explained as among 80 types of vata imbalance disorders. It is a specific type of pain that travels from Stick Pradesh through the back of the Kati Pradesh and Urru till the foot.

COMMON CAUSES OF GRIDHRASI

  • Intake of vata aggravating foods like Bengal gram, Pigeon pea, Red lentils, and Flat beans.
  • Excessive intake of dry and cold food.
  • Suppression of mala ( urine and faeces)
  • Excess of walking
  • Trauma or injury

TYPES OF GRIDHRASI

There are two types of gridhrasi mentioned below:-

  • Vataj Gridhrasi
  • Vata kaphaja Gridhrasi

Symptoms of Vataj Gridhrasi

  • Shooting type pain
  • The curved posture of the leg and body
  • Stiffness and tingling sensation in the joints of the waist, thigh, and knee

Symptoms of Vata Kaphaja Gridhrasi

  • Poor appetite
  • Drowsiness
  • Excessive salivation
  • Anorexia

AYURVEDIC LINE OF TREATMENT

As this is the vata disorder, pacifying all vata measures should be undertaken.

Panchkarma

  1. Snehan:-  Application and pouring of oil over the affected area should be carried out.
  2. Swedana :-  Application of Poultice ( upnaha swed ) is effective.
  3. Anuvasan Basti:-  It is performed with saindhavadi oil.
  4. Virechan:-  In case of constipation virechan should be done.
  5. Agni karma:-  This is done in severe painful areas. It is done by using a metallic rod.

Herbs useful in sciatica

  1. Nirgundi
  2. Bala
  3. Punarnava
  4. Eranda
  5. Shigru
  6. Rasna
  7. Jambira
  8. Masha

HERBAL REMEDIES FOR SCIATICA BY PLANET AYURVEDA

Planet Ayurveda is a GMP-certified company offering products worldwide. All the products are prepared by following the ayurvedic texts under the guidance of MD Ayurveda experts. All the products are safe and devoid of all kinds of adverse effects. Let’s have a look at the formulations:-

SCIATICA CARE PACK

  1. HAKAM CHURNA
  2. BOSWELLIA CURCUMIN
  3. YOGRAJ GUGGUL
  4. ASHWAGANDHA CAPSULES
  5. VRIHAT VATCHINTAMANI RAS
  6. DHANWANTHRAM TAILAM

Herbal Remedies for SciaticaHerbal Supplements for Sciatica

PRODUCTS  DESCRIPTION

1. HAKAM CHURNA

It is a wonderful preparation by Planet Ayurveda. This is a classical herbal preparation that is very effective in sciatica and back pain disorders. This combination is also known as Tridoshic Rasayan. It affects all three doshas. Vata regulates the brain and nervous system, Pitta controls metabolism and Kapha maintains the body structure. Hakam Churna is a mixture of herbs like Chandershoor ( Lepidium sativum ), Kalonji ( Nigella sativaa ), Methi (Trigonella foenum graecum ), Ajwain ( Trachyspermum ammi ). All four herbs are present in equal quantity. It has the properties to bring vata in balance. It also improves digestion and decreases stiffness and pain.

Dosage:-  1 tsp. twice daily with warm water, after meals.

2. BOSWELLIA CURCUMIN

Boswellia curcumin capsules prepared by planet Ayurveda are the best preparation for inflammatory disorders. The results are long-lasting and the anti-inflammatory effect is permanent. This herb is effective and safe to consume as there are no side effects. The combination is very powerful for joint inflammation in vertebrae. Boswellia extract is generally made from tree gum. It contains at least 15 triterpene acids. Boswellia contains boswellic acid which is a very good anti-inflammatory and supports healthy joint functioning by inhibiting the leukotrienes. The addition of curcumin not only supports joint movements but is also a rich antioxidant. This combination provides comprehensive immune support.

Dosage:–  2 capsules twice daily with warm water, after meals.

3. YOGRAJ GUGGUL

Yograj Guggul is an ayurvedic preparation in tablet form which maintains the balance of vata in the body. It is a combination of various ingredients. It contains Chitraka (Plumbago zeylancia), Yavani (Trachyspermum ammi), Pippalimoola (Trachyspermum ammi), Karavi (Piper chaba), etc. All herbs are taken in fine powdered form. Guggul is melted and all the herbs are added to it. It is converted into tablet form in a uniform size of around 500 mg.

Dosage:-  2 tablets twice daily with warm water, after meals.

4. VRIHAT VATCHINTAMANI RAS

Vrihat Vatchintamani Ras is a classical preparation that is effective in balancing vata dosha. It is used in various nervous disorders. It contains ingredients like Swarna Bhasma, Abhrak Bhasma, Rajat Bhasma, Praval Bhasma, etc. It is enriched with antioxidants, anti-aging, nerve tonic, and many more properties.  It is excellent for increasing the strength of the body. It reduces the chances of age-related health issues. It is very effective in removing toxins from the body.

Dosage:-  1 tablet twice daily with warm water twice daily, after meals.

5. DHANWANTHARAM TAILAM

Dhanwanthram tailam is an ayurvedic oil preparation. It is effective in treating vata dosha disorders. This preparation is based on Kerala ayurvedic practice. It contains herbs like Balamool ( Sida cordifolia ), Agnimanth (Premna mucronate), Patala (Stereospermum suaveolens), Shyonaka (Oroxylum Indicum), etc. No side effects of this oil on external administration are noted.

Dosage:-  Massage externally after warming it up through a water bath method.

DIET AND LIFESTYLE CHANGES

DONOT’S

  • Avoid exercises that stretch your hamstring
  • Avoid sitting for longer times more than 20 minutes
  • Avoid the bed rest
  • Avoid bending over
  • Avoid twisting your spine
  • Avoid prolonged walking

DO’S

  •  Take a high-fibre diet
  • Maintain adequate body weight
  • Drink plenty of water
  • Mobilise and extend the lower back
  • Oil massages

CONCLUSION

Sciatica is a disease of the nervous system. It is characterised by radiating pain in the sciatic nerve. A person suffering from sciatica can have a great result by taking these formulations which have negligible side effects. This is far better than having painkillers that only act as symptomatic relief. Still, it is recommended that an expert’s advice should be taken before starting the treatment.

Ayurvedic Management for CAUDA EQUINA SYNDROME

Abstract

Cauda equina syndrome is a medical condition where collections of nerve roots are compressed causing certain signs and symptoms. Electrical signals throughout the body are sent by nerves. Roots of these nerves collect at the bottom of the spinal cord in the shape of a horse’s tail. In the case of Cauda equina syndrome, there is a sort of sensation in your urinary bladder and legs. Compressed nerve roots result in weakness of the bladder causing incontinence of urine, pain, and other associated symptoms. If left untreated, Cauda equina can result in permanent paralysis of the part or damage. Early medical intervention can prevent permanent damage to the nerves. This article contains all the information about Cauda equina syndrome and its Ayurvedic treatment and management.

INTRODUCTION TO THE CAUDA EQUINA SYNDROME

Pain in my lower back is a very common complaint nowadays. Millions of people suffer from it and causes can be different. One of the rare causes of lower back pain is Cauda equina syndrome. Conventionally Cauda equina syndrome is classified as a surgical medical emergency where the spinal nerve roots are compressed causing symptoms. It is necessary and vital to get immediate medical intervention to prevent any permanent damage to these nerve roots like paralysis or incontinence. Cauda equina literally means horse’s tail in latin language and Cauda equina syndrome is a condition where the roots of the collection of nerves are compressed in the lumbosacral spine of the spinal cord. These nerves are responsible for receiving and sending the messages from and to the feet, legs and pelvic organs of a person.

Cauda equina syndrome

AYURVEDIC ASPECT OF CAUDA EQUINA SYNDROME

The Ayurvedic approach of nerve problems is wholesome and it looks for overall health. The three different doshas or functional energies, i.e. Vata, Pitta and Kapha dosha are responsible for overall health. The functioning of the nervous system is mainly based on Vata dosha. Nerve problems are caused by an imbalance in Vata dosha.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF CAUDA EQUINA SYNDROME

There are different signs and symptoms of Cauda equina syndrome

  • Different types of sensation or numbness in back of the hips, legs, or inner thighs
  • Pain in legs or lower back
  • Weakness in both or one leg resulting in difficulty to get up from sitting position or stumbling
  • Difficulty in urination like retention, i.e. problem in eliminating or incontinence, i.e. difficulty in holding it back. It can be with bowel function as well
  • Sudden sexual dysfunction

CAUSES OF CAUDA EQUINA SYNDROME

Adults are more commonly affected by Cauda equina syndrome than children. However children having spinal injury or spinal birth defect can get this syndrome. Some of the most common causes of this ailment are

  • Stenosis, i.e. spinal canal narrowing
  • Lumbar area’s severely ruptured disk
  • Malignant tumor or spinal lesion
  • Fracture, infection, hemorrhage or inflammation
  • Birth defect in a childlike arteriovenous malformation which means abnormal connection of the blood vessels
  • Severe injury to the lumbar spine by fall, car crash, stabbing or gunshot

DIAGNOSIS OF CAUDA EQUINA SYNDROME

Diagnosis of Cauda equina syndrome consists of several steps like your doctor will go for medical history which includes symptoms, your activity and general health. Further physical examination is done to check the stability, reflexes, strength, sensation, motion and alignment. Other tests like certain blood tests, MRI, CT scan, and Myelogram are also done. All these procedures will help in diagnosing the condition correctly.

TREATMENT OF CAUDA EQUINA SYNDROME

Conventional treatment of Cauda equina syndrome is majorly surgery which is done promptly after the diagnosis to release the pressure on the nerves. High doses of corticosteroids are also given as per the cause of the condition. If there is infection, antibiotics are given.

AYURVEDIC TREATMENT FOR CAUDA EQUINA SYNDROME

Ayurvedic Ttreatment aims at treating the cause of the condition which in Ayurveda is considered to be the vitiation of the doshas, especially Vata dosha. There are many herbs present in the Ayurveda which can pacify the Vata dosha and treat the ailment effectively.

HERBAL TREATMENT OF CAUDA EQUINA SYNDROME BY PLANET AYURVEDA

Planet Ayurveda being a herbal pharmaceutical company deal in the production of herbal products and medicines that are eventually used to treat various health ailments. All the medicines and products are prepared using authentic and pure herbs and natural compounds that are tested through several processes. For Cauda equina syndrome Planet Ayurveda offers a combination of herbal remedies.

Products List

  1. Trayodashang guggul
  2. Ashwagandharisht
  3. Boswellia curcumin
  4. Mahavat Vidhwansan Ras
  5. Dashmularisht
  6. Agnitundi vati

Products Description

1. Trayodashang Guggul

It is a famous Ayurvedic formulation prepared using Shuddh guggul (Commiphora mukul), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) etc. Trayodasanga guggulu helps in treating pain and weakness in joints and it is a wonderful remedy to treat hemiplegia.

Dosage– Take 2 tablets twice daily after meals with plain water

2. Ashwagandharisht

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is the herb primarily used in this herbal formulation. Ashwagandharishta helps in treating weakness, gives strength to the body and also helps in relieving pain in body parts.

Dosage– Take 2 teaspoons twice daily after meals with plain water.

3. Boswellia Curcumin

This Ayurvedic formulation is combination of two medicinal herbs, i.e. Boswellia (Boswellia serrata) and Curcumin (Curcuma longa) in standardized form. Boswellia curcumin is known as herbal pain killer which helps in treating all types of pain in the body along with treating the inflammation as well.

Dosage– Take 1 capsule twice daily after meals with plain water

4. Mahavat Vidhwansan Ras

It is a classical Ayurvedic preparation which is made from Shuddh parad (Processed mercury), Shuddha gandhak (Detoxified sulfur), Vang bhasma (Calcified tin metal), Nag bhasma (Calx of lead), Lauh bhasma (Calx of iron) etc. Maha Vata Vidhwansan Ras is used to treat urinary incontinence or other urinary complaints, and also help in pacifying the Vata dosha.

Dosage– Chew 1 tablet twice daily after meals

5. Dashmularisht

It has amazing medicinal qualities like anti inflammatory, analgesic, anti arthritic etc which helps in treating symptoms of Cauda equina syndrome effectively. Dashmularishta is prepared using Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia), Amla (Emblica officinalis), Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia), Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) etc.

Dosage– Take 2 teaspoons twice daily after meals with plain water

6. Agnitundi Vati

These Ayurvedic tablets help in re-igniting the Agni (Digestive fire) in the body which burns the ama dosha which is responsible for many ailments. Agnitundi vati helps in treating the digestive ailments also like indigestion, loss of appetite or constipation. It is prepared from a combination of Shunthi (Zingiber officinale), Cumin (Cuminum cyminum), Leadwort (Plumbago auriculata) etc.

Dosage– Take 1 tablet twice daily after meals with plain water

Contact Planet Ayurveda to provide you the costing / ordering and delivery information at – costing.planetayurveda@gmail.com or call at +91-172-5214040 Or Check Website – www.PlanetAyurveda.com

CONCLUSION

Cauda equina syndrome is a medical emergency and one must contact a doctor immediately if you notice any of the symptoms. Early medical intervention and use of correct medicine is the key.