European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

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

*Dr. Nidhi Jain and Prof. Dr. Swapnil Singhai

ABSTRACT

One of the most common diseases that affect 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 implies vulture, as the patient walks like the feathered creature Gridhra and his legs end up tense and slightly curved, so because of the likeness with the gait of a vulture, Gridhrasi term may have been given to this disease. Ayurveda categorized Sciatica as one of disease caused by vitiation 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 descending order. Ayurvedic treatment of Gridhrasi aimed at bringing back the aggravated Vata and Vatakaphadosha to the state of health. Treatment comprises three main approaches - Shodhana, Shamana and Use of Rasayanas. Along with these Abhyanga, Nadisweda, Patrapotlisweda and Kativasti are also very effective in treating Gridhrasi.

Keywords: Gridhrasi. Sciatica, Kativasti, Nadisweda.