Abstract

AN APPRAISAL OF KATIGRAHA (LUMBAR SPONDYLOSIS) AND ITS MANAGEMENT-REVIEW ARTICLE

Aswathy K.*, Lalita Rani, Amrish Chanana, Jitendra Varsakiya

Abstract

Low back pain is one of the most prevalent musculoskeletal conditions worldwide and commonly presents as a symptom of a wide spectrum of spinal disorders. Among these, lumbar spondylosis represents a particularly frequent and clinically significant entity, contributing substantially to pain, functional limitation, and reduced quality of life. In Ayurveda, a similar condition is described as Katigraha, a Vata-dominant disorder manifested by pain and rigidity in the lumbar region. The present review aims to analyse and correlate the Ayurvedic concept of Katigraha with the modern clinical understanding of lumbar spondylosis through a detailed review of textual and contemporary literature. Classical Ayurvedic texts, including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya, Bhavaprakasha, and Gadanigraha, describe Katigraha as a disorder arising from aggravated Vata, often associated with lifestyle and dietary factors. Modern research attributes lumbar spondylosis to degenerative processes in the intervertebral structures and mechanical stress on the lumbar spine. This review highlights that the understanding of Katigraha in the context of lumbar spondylosis provides an integrative framework for diagnosis and management. A combined clinical perspective offers potential for effective, holistic management of chronic low back conditions and enhances the scope for evidence-based integrative research in musculoskeletal disorders.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Katigraha, Low back pain, Lumbar spondylosis, Review article.