Abstract

THERAPEUTIC ROLE OF SIRAVEDHANA IN CHRONIC GRIDHRASI (SCIATICA) WITH SHAMANA CHIKITSA: A CASE REPORT

Rahul R. Phate*, Manju Agarwal, Mukesh Kumar Sharma, Riju Agarwal

Abstract

Gridhrasi (Sciatica) is a debilitating neuromuscular disorder characterized by radiating pain, stiffness, and restricted mobility of the lower limb. Despite the availability of various treatment modalities, a significant proportion of patients with chronic sciatica fail to achieve satisfactory relief. In Ayurveda, Gridhrasi is classified under Vatavyadhi, and Siravedhana (therapeutic venesection) is described as an important treatment modality for disorders involving Vata and Rakta Dushti. A 35- year-old female patient had complaints of pain radiating from the lower back to the left lower limb, associated with stiffness, pricking sensation, marked functional limitation, and minimal relief from the prolonged conservative management. Assessment was done using the Visual analogue scale (VAS), Straight leg raising (SLR) test, and gradation of classical symptoms of disease. The patient was treated with Shamana Chikitsa along with Siravedhana, as indicated by Acharya Sushruta, performed at the indicated anatomical site. Siravedhana was performed under aseptic conditions with controlled bloodletting. Following the treatment, the patient showed a significant reduction in radiating pain, stiffness, and pricking sensation, along with marked improvement in functional mobility. No adverse events were observed during the procedure. Chronic sciatica involves both mechanical and inflammatory mechanisms, including nerve root irritation and cytokine-mediated pain. Siravedhana may act by removing vitiated Rakta, reducing local inflammatory mediators, and improving microcirculation, thereby relieving nerve compression and neuropathic pain. The present case highlights the effectiveness of the therapeutic role of Siravedhana with the Shamana chikitsa in chronic persistent Gridhrasi (Sciatica).

Keywords: Gridhrasi, Sciatica, Siravedhana, Shamana Aushadhi, Ayurveda.