Ayurvedic Treatment of Levator Ani Syndrome
Abstract
Pelvic floor disorders occur due to dysfunctional muscles which mostly result when the muscles are either too relaxed or too tight. Levator ani syndrome results when non-relaxing pelvic muscles are not functioning properly and cause rectal pain which can become unbearable at some point. After the confirmation of the syndrome, you should plan your treatment according to the root cause of the ailment. Depending on self-medication and temporary suppressors can even cause long-term side effects with temporary relief. Hence, here we have discussed the alternative mode of natural management of the disease with the traditional method of healing.
Introduction
Levator ani syndrome which is also termed piriformis syndrome or pelvic tension myalgia; is usually a long-term pelvic floor dysfunction condition characterized by spasmodic episodes of pain in the rectum and anus region. A person feels dull aching pain caused due to spasms in the levator ani muscle which gets worse by sitting for a long duration and disappear while laying down or walking. It has been estimated that 7.4 percent of women and around 5.7 percent of men get affected with levator ani syndrome. This is more prevalent in individuals aging between 30-60 years of age.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Levator Ani Syndrome?
Generally, symptoms may vary from one individual to another and the severity of the condition. Moreover, which may get aggravated by stress, trauma, sexual intercourse, surgical phenomenon, defecation, etc. The signs and symptoms may be ongoing and highly impact the quality of life. Here are some of the symptoms listed below-
- Severe Pain– Periodic episodes of rectal pain which can continue for hours and even for days; usually gets triggered while sitting or lying down. This rectal pain sometimes gets radiated to groins or thighs while in men pain may spread to testicles, Penis tip, and prostate.
- Urinary and Bowel Problems– An affected person may experience difficulty in passing stool which can lead to constipation and bloating also. The individual may also feel the need to urinate frequently along with pain in the bladder while urinating.
What are the Causes of Levator Ani Syndrome?
Specific causes of Levator ani syndrome are not yet clearly understood and researched but certain factors can contribute to the onset of this syndrome.
- Interstitial cystitis, Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and Endometriosis.
- Painful sexual intercourses or sexual abuse
- Previous injury in the pelvic floor from surgery or trauma
- Vaginal atrophy
- Inflammation and chronic tension in pelvic floor muscles
How is Levator Ani Syndrome Diagnosed?
The procedure for identification of Levator Ani Syndrome is often termed as “Diagnosis of exclusion” as the analysis is done to exclude other disorders. These clinical tests include blood tests, imaging tests, and endoscopic processes. Usually, this gets misdiagnosed as prostatitis in males due to similarities in symptoms. Levator Ani Syndrome is suspected in an individual if the person reports tenderness in levator muscle and recurrent episodes of rectal pain which lasts for more than 15 minutes.
What are the Treatments Available for Levator Ani Syndrome?
Undoubtedly science is moving forward at a fast pace and modern medicine has provided different ways to loosen the tension in pelvic floor muscles. Here are some most popular ways given below-
- Tricyclic antidepressants
- Physical therapies like heat and massage
- Muscle relaxants like gabapentin or pregabalin
- Corticosteroids or Botox
- Acupuncture or nerve stimulation procedures
- Sitz Bath
What is the Alternative Ayurvedic Treatment Given by Planet Ayurveda for Levator Ani Syndrome?
According to Ayurvedic principles, Levator Ani Syndrome is caused due to vitiated Vyana Vata which results in spasm of muscles (Khalli vata). Generally, muscular spasms result from the deposition of Ama (Metabolic waste/toxins) in nerve endings and muscle tissues. Ayurvedic treatment involves herbal remedies for the elimination of the root cause of the disease. Planet Ayurveda is offering the best quality herbal supplements for the management of Levator Ani Syndrome.
Product Description
1. Avipattikar Churna
Avipattikar churna is an amazing herbal blend of numerous herbs i.e. Baheda (Terminalia bellirica), Ginger powder (Zingiber officinale), Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), Vidanga (Embelia ribes), Clove (Syzygium aromaticum), Tejpatta (Laurus nobilis), Amla (Emblica officinalis), Peepal (Ficus religiosa), Nisoth (Operculina turpethum), Black pepper (Piper nigrum), etc. It provides effective results in constipation, indigestion, and various urinary problems. All these herbs show anti-inflammatory, carminative, antacid, and diuretic properties which makes it a perfect natural remedy.
Dosage– 1 teaspoon thrice 10 mins before a meal with warm water
2. Yograj Guggul
These tablets contain traditional herbs like Shudh guggul (Commiphora mukul), Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Haritaki (Terminalia chebula) and Chitraka (Plumbago zeylanica), etc. Yograj Guggul provides strength to muscles, anti-inflammatory effect, and maintains healthy digestion.
Dosage– 2 tablets twice a day with warm water after meals.
3. Arogyavardhini Vati
This is another classical herbal formulation from Planet Ayurveda containing Ayurvedic herbs like Shudh guggul (Commiphora mukul), Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Baheda (Terminalia bellirica), Kautki (Picrorhiza kurroa), and Chitrakmool (Plumbago zeylanica). Arogyavardhini vati helps to maintain the healthy digestive system, boosts our immune system and promotes a rejuvenating effect.
Dosage– ½ tablet twice a day with plain water.
4. Navkarshik Churna
Navkarshik churna is very beneficial in detoxification, relieves constipation, and boosts our immune system naturally. This is composed of many medicinally important herbs like Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), Kautki (Picrorhiza kurroa), Baheda (Terminalia bellirica), Manjishtha (Rubia cordifolia), Neem (Azadirachta indica), Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia), Daru Haldi (Berberis aristata) and Vacha (Acorus calamus).
Dosage– 1/2 teaspoon twice a day with warm water.
5. Dhanwantharam Thailam
Dhanwantharam Thailam is an ayurvedic oil that is efficient in clearing blockages and improves circulation in the body. It possesses relaxant herbs like Balamoola (Sida cordifolia), Barley (Hordeum vulgare), Kola (Ziziphus jujuba), Bilva (Aegle marmelos), Shyonaka (Oroxylum indicum), Patala (Stereospermum suaveolens), Gambhari (Gmelina arborea), Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris), etc. This oil helps reduce pain, muscle cramps, and swelling in the affected area.
How to Use– Apply locally after warming up the oil and then give a hot sensation over the muscular area.
6. Ashwagandha Capsules
Ashwagandha capsules are a single herb formulation made up of Indian ginseng i.e. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera). This Ayurvedic herb strengthens muscles, rejuvenates, and provides vitality all over the body.
Dosage– 1 capsule twice after meals with plain water.
Conclusion
Levator ani syndrome can turn into a chronic condition as there is no permanent cure but with proper management, time, and holistic mode of treatment, the symptoms can become less severe. It is very important in any ailment to search for the root cause rather than popping pills for temporary comfort.
