About Author
Doye D1,Gulhane D2,
1 PG Scholar, Department of Kayachikitsa , Government Ayurved College, Nagpur
2 HOD and Associate Professor, Department of Kayachikitsa, Government Ayurved College, Nagpur
Correspondence Address
Government Ayurved College And Hospital Nagpur Sakkaradara Square Raje Raghuji Nagar 440024
Contact No. : 9527553065, Email : pragatidoye9@gmail.com
Date of Acceptance : 25 Dec 2025
Date of Publication : 31 Dec 2025
Article ID : SD-IJAY_154
How to cite this article : http://doi.org/10.55552/SDNJAY.2025.3405
Abstract
Sciatica is a prevalent neuromuscular disorder characterized by pain radiating along the course of the sciatic nerve, extending from the lower back through the buttock and down the lower limb. It significantly affects mobility, occupational performance, and overall quality of life. In Ayurveda, a clinical condition comparable to sciatica is described as Gridhrasi, which is classified as a Vata-dominant disorder in classical texts. Gridhrasi is characterized by symptoms such as pain (Ruk), stiffness (Stambha), pricking sensation (Toda), heaviness (Gaurava), and restricted movements of the affected limb. These symptoms are often exacerbated by improper posture, excessive physical activity, faulty dietary habits, and suppression of natural urges.
From a modern medical perspective, lumbar disc herniation causing nerve root compression is the most common etiology of low back pain associated with radiculopathy, resulting in radiating pain along the leg. Conventional management of sciatica primarily focuses on symptomatic relief using analgesics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), with limited long-term benefits.
Ayurveda advocates a comprehensive therapeutic approach for the management of Gridhrasi, including Snehana (oleation), Swedana (sudation), Siravedha (bloodletting), Basti (medicated enema), and Agnikarma (therapeutic cauterization), administered in a systematic and sequential manner.
This case study reports the management of sciatica in a 52-year-old female patient treated with Viddhakarma, Basti karma, Agnikarma, and Shamana Chikitsa (internal medications). The patient demonstrated marked clinical improvement, with significant reduction in pain and functional disability, highlighting the potential effectiveness of Ayurvedic interventions in the management of sciatica (Gridhrasi).
KEY WORDS:- Gridhrasi, Basti, Viddhakarma, Agnikarma, Shaman