Abstract

A SINGLE CASE STUDY ON THE AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF GRIDHRASI (SCIATICA) THROUGH BASTI CHIKITSA

Nirma B.*, Priyadarshini D.

Abstract

Gridhrasi is a Vata-predominant Nanatmaja Vata Vyadhi described in classical Ayurvedic texts, presenting with pain radiating from the lower back to the lower limb, closely correlating with sciatica in contemporary medicine. This case report discusses the management of a 36-year-old male cook presenting with a 3-month history of low back pain radiating to the left lower limb with associated tingling and numbness, significantly restricting his gait and daily activities. The patient was managed with Churna Basti followed by Yoga Basti along with Patra Pinda Sweda for 7 days, and oral Ayurvedic formulations. Following an 8-day inpatient protocol, the patient showed marked symptomatic improvement, with VAS score reducing from 8/10 to 0/10 and SLR becoming negative bilaterally at discharge. This case highlights the efficacy of a combined Basti-based Panchakarma protocol in the management of Gridhrasi.

Keywords: Gridhrasi, Sciatica, Basti Chikitsa, Yoga Basti, Patra Pinda Sweda, Ayurveda.