Abstract

AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF GRIDHRASI (SCIATICA) WITH PANCHAKARMA THERAPY: A CASE REPORT

Dr. Ravika Sangwan*, Dr. V. Lakshmana Prasad

Abstract

Gridhrasi is one of the Vataja Nanatmaja Vyadhis described in Ayurvedic classics,[1] characterised by pain radiating along the course of the sciatic nerve, which closely resembles Sciatica in modern medical science. It primarily arises due to the vitiation of Vata Dosha, affecting regions such as Sphik, Kati, Prushtha, Uru, Janu, Jangha, and Pada. This case report presents the Ayurvedic management of a 39-year-old female patient who complained of low back pain (LBP) radiating to both lower limbs for the past 5 years. MRI findings revealed a posterior disc bulge at the L4–L5 level. The patient was managed with a comprehensive Panchakarma protocol including Abhyanga, Nadisvedana, Jambheera Pinda Svedam, Matra Vasti, Madhughritadi Yapana Vasti, and Kativasti. Significant clinical improvement was observed following treatment, including improvement in walking time from 18.33 seconds to 11.21 seconds per 10 meters, improvement in Straight Leg Raise Test (SLRT) angles, and a marked reduction in pain and functional disability. This case highlights the potential efficacy of Ayurvedic Panchakarma therapy in managing Gridhrasi.

Keywords: Gridhrasi, Sciatica, Panchakarma, Vataja Nanatmaja Vyadhi, Yapana Vasti, Kativasti, disc bulge, LBP.