Abstract

A CONCEPTUAL STUDY ON GRIDHRASI W.S.R TO SCIATICA

*Dr. Nidhi Jain and Prof. Dr. Neerja Sharma

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Abstract

One of the most common disease that affects the hip and the lower limb is Sciatica. In Sciatica there is pain in the distribution of sciatic nerve which begins from buttock and radiates downwards to the posterior aspect of thigh, calf and to the outer border of foot. Sciatica occurs due to pressure put on sciatic nerve root by a herniated disc, continuous lifting of heavy objects, trauma, prolonged working in forward bending position etc. Ayurveda describes Sciatica as Gridhrasi. Gridhra means Vulture, as the patient walks like the bird gridhra and his legs become tense and slightly curved, so due to the resemblance with the gait of a Vulture, Gridhrasi term might have been given to this disease. Ayurveda categorized Sciatica as one of disease caused by vitiation of vata. Sometimes even kapha vitiation along with vata also causes Sciatica. The cardinal signs and symptoms of Gridhrasi are Ruka (pain), Toda (pricking sensation), Stambha (stiffness) and Muhuspandana (twitching) in the Sphika, Kati, Pristha, Uru, Janu, Jangha, and Pada in order. Ayurvedic treatment of Gridhrasi aimed at bringing back the aggravated vata and vata kapha dosha to the state of health. Treatment comprises three main approaches:- Shodhana, Shamana and use of Rasayans. Along with these Abhyanga, Nadi sweda, Patrapotli sweda and Kati vasti are also very effective in treating Gridhrasi.

Keywords: Gridhrasi. Sciatica, Kati vasti, Nadi sweda.