Category: Arthritis / Bone / Joint Health

August 11, 2023

Sciatica- Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Ayurcedic Treatment

ABSTRACT

Sciatica refers to the pain which travels along the pathway of the sciatic nerve. Pain is a distressing feeling which is caused by damaging the stimuli. It is associated with potential tissue damage. It lasts until the stimulus is removed until the damage is healed. Pain is an uncomfortable sensation in the body which is activated by the nervous system. It usually ranges from a sharp stab to a dull ache. It may be consistent and lasts shortly or long for a certain period of time. Pain may be localized which affects some specific part of the body or generalized which is related to the whole body. There are various types of pain such as Acute pain which is usually for a short period of time and often results from injury or illness. Chronic Pain comes and goes over multiple years such as migraine, cancer and sometimes arthritis. Nociceptive pain is caused due to damaged tissue such as cuts, fractures and in tissue inflammation condition. Neuropathic pain is caused due to damaged nerves it can develop in diseases such as multiple sclerosis. Functional pain is caused due to no injury or damage to the body. In this article, we are going to discuss the causes and symptoms of sciatica and its ayurvedic view in detail.

Sciatica

INTRODUCTION

Sciatica is a common type of pain which is affecting the sciatic nerve which radiates from the lower back down to the lower leg. It is generally caused by irritation, inflammation and by compressing of the nerve which is in the lower back and originates from the gluteal area. The sciatic nerve is the longest and thickest nerve in the body. It is made up of five roots of nerves two from the lower back which is the lumbar spine and three in the final section of the spine known as the sacrum. These both come together and further form the sciatic nerve. Sciatica is a stabbing type of pain which is mainly the sharp, shooting type of pain. 90% of the sciatica is due to herniation of the spinal disc which presses the roots of the lumbar and sacral nerves. One may feel pain, weakness and numbness in the areas, which further affects the bones of the neck and back.

FACTS ABOUT SCIATICA

Sciatica overlaps with multiple diseases such as lumbar radiculopathy which compresses the nerve.
The risk of Sciatica increases with height and weight
In sciatica, exercise is better than rest as exercise helps to improve the spinal discs and improve the tone of muscles.
Mainly men and middle-aged adults are more seen in Sciatica.
When there is sciatica type of pain one may change their Gait (antalgic Gait) which is adjusted while walking.
Diabetes mirrors sciatic nerve pain which involves the compression of the sciatica nerve.

CAUSES

Sciatica is caused by different medical conditions such as

1. Herniated or slipped discs

It is due to pressing of the lumbar and sacral nerve which is seen in 90% of the cases. The pain usually increases while bending and reduces when the patient is lying down. It is the most common cause of sciatica.

2. Spinal Stenosis

It includes lumbar stenosis, which runs through the spinal cord and compresses the cord and this narrowing causes inflammation and herniated disc. It is commonly seen when the patient is standing, or walking and reduces when they bend forward.

3. Piriformis Syndrome

When there is trauma to the piriformis muscle it leads to compression of the sciatic nerve.

4. Endometriosis

It is known as cyclical sciatica whose diagnosis is made by MRI and CT myelography.

5. Pregnancy

Sciatica can also occur during pregnancy as the weight of the fetus presses on the sciatica nerves during sitting poses.

6. Muscle spasms on buttock back

7. Spondylolisthesis (when the vertebrae slip over one another)

8. Osteoarthritis (bone spurs which form in the spines and further compress the lower back).

9. Cauda equina syndrome

Rare but serious condition which affects the bundle of nerves and causes pain deep down the legs which further numbs the area.

PATHOPHYSIOLOGY

Sciatica is caused due to compression of L4 – L5 or S1. It is mainly due to the bulging of the spinal disc and herniation. The Intervertebral spinal disc consists of the annulus and inner nucleus pulposus. The annulus consists of a rigid ring around the nucleus which is contained within the disc; these discs separate the spinal vertebrae and increase the stability of the spine. As the age increases the annulus weakens and becomes less rigid which further causes a tear which gets pressed against spinal nerves. The secondary cause is spinal misalignment which reduces the lateral foramen.

SYMPTOMS

Pain in the hip area
Shooting and constant type of pain
Burning and tingling sensation in the leg
Numbness and hard time in the leg
Loss of bladder and bowel control
Moderate to severe pain in the buttock and lower back.
Pain gets worse during any movement.
Overweight
Smoking
Wearing high heels

DIAGNOSIS

Spinal X-ray
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)
CT Scan (computed tomography)
Electromyography (EMG)
Myelogram

TREATMENT

Home remedies

1. Using ice packs

2. Stretching

Side-lying hip stretch
Back-lying hip flexor
Buttock pinch

3. Medications

Anti-inflammatory
Anti-seizure
Narcotics
Antidepressants

4. Steroid Injections- Like cortisone shot

5. Surgery

AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT

Sciatica refers to gridhasi in ayurveda which is one of the neurological disorders due to Vata imbalance which is derived from Gridha which means bird vulture. It is caused due to vitiation of Vata dosha in the body along with Kapha doshas which radiates the pain in the affected leg and changes the Gait. Aggravated Vata enters the hip region and fills up the channel and empty spaces further producing stiffness and pain in the affected area which moves down in the leg region and causes sciatica (Gridhasi).

NIDANA (AETIOLOGY)

1. Aharaja ( Inappropriate diet)

Intake of oily and fried food
Intake of cold items (frozen)
Fasting
Formation of ama (toxins)

2. Viharaja (Inappropriate activities)

Using uncomfortable seats
Sleeping during day time
Suppression of natural urges
Sexual indulgence in excess
Ratri Jagran (awake at night)

3. Mansika- (psychological)

Excessive anger and fear

4. Abhighataja (Traumatic)

Injuries
Any kind of trauma

POORVA ROOPA

Constipation
Feeling of heaviness
Stiffness and pain in the hip region

BHEDA (TYPES)

1. Vataja Gridhrasi- It includes the vitiation of Vata doshas which includes

Stamba
Pain
Pricking type of pain
Twitching type of pain

2. Vata

Kaphaja Gridhasi- It includes vitiation of Vata doshas along with Kapha doshas along with symptoms includes

Drowsiness
Heaviness in the body
Anorexia

UPASHAYA- ANUPASAYA

Upashyaya (pacifying factors)

Yoga
Maintaining the proper diet
Stretching exercises
Staying active
Use of heat and cold packs

ANUPASHAYA (non-pacifying factors)

Poor alignment
Depression
Sedentary lifestyle
Smoking
Improper sleep and lying postures

TREATMENT

1. Shodhana

It is the removal of the accumulated toxins

Snehana (oleation)- helps to reduce the Ruksha gunas which are caused by the vitiation of Vata doshas. It helps to promote and provides digestion.
Swedana (sudation)- It is done by various fomentation processes such as Nadi swedana, tub bath and many more.
Basti (enema)- Pakvasaya is the main seat for Vata doshas so enema is the best treatment. They are of two types- Niruha Basti and anuvasana basti.
Virechana- It is the mild purgation with drugs.

2. Shamana Chikitsa

This is classified into two types

Bahya Chikitsa (external)- in the form of dhara and sweda.
Abhyantra Chikitsa (internal)- in the form of churna, guggul and arista.

3. RASAYAN CHIKITSA Rejuvenating Therapies

Abhyanga- massage with medicated oils which helps to improve circulation.
Kati Basti
Nasya

HERBS USEFUL IN SCIATICA

NIRGUNDI

Nirgundi (Vitex negundo) is a very good muscle relaxant which helps in relieving pain and in swelling. Has properties of anti-inflammatory, anticonvulsant and hepato-protective activity. It is used in the treatment of cysts and in fistula in ano. Helps to improve ventilation and has analgesic properties, Improves the menstrual flow and improves the blood circulation process.

ERANDA

Eranda (Castor) is very useful in neurological diseases and helps to relieve pain. It is helpful in balancing Vata and Kapha doshas and helps to relieve bloating and is useful in abdominal tumours. Has anti-inflammatory properties which relieve swelling and oedema. Helpful in the treatment of asthma and chronic respiratory disorders. Improves digestion further balances the Vata disorders and is useful in liver disorders.

GUGGUL- Guggul (Commiphora Mukul)

is one of the most used ayurvedic herbs which has binding properties and helps in relieving inflammation. Helpful in strengthening the bones and joints and useful in fractures and dislocations. It has rejuvenative properties and is helpful in improving digestion. Heals wounds quickly and is easy to digest and lowers the level of cholesterol.

RASNA

Rasna (Pluchea lanceolata) is helpful in the treatment of pain and in indigestion. It is known as the best drug for Vata disorders. It helps to reduce the vitiated Kapha and Vata disorders and helps to control the poison. Rasna helps to improve digestion and relieves the ama doshas. Helpful in the treatment of joints and muscles.

HERBAL REMEDIES BY PLANET AYURVEDA FOR SCIATICA

Planet Ayurveda is an eminent ISO 9001:2015 certified, GMP certified and US-FDA registered ayurvedic company which adheres to the objective of its ayurvedic products as mentioned in the ayurvedic texts. Formulations which are manufactured by planet ayurveda are without any additives and preservatives and do not cause any side effects on the human body. Products manufactured at planet Ayurveda are pure and devoid of any adulterations. These products are pure and gluten-free. For the sciatica planet, ayurveda manufactured a sciatica care pack which is helpful and beneficial in it.

PRODUCTS LIST

SCIATICA CARE PACK

Boswellia Curcumin
Hakam Churna
Ashwagandha Capsules
Yograj Guggul
Vrihat Vatchintamani Ras
Dhanwantharam Tailam

PRODUCTS DESCRIPTION

1. Boswellia Curcumin

Boswellia Curcumin is a polyherbal capsule which is made by planet ayurveda using Shallaki (Boswellia serrata) and Curcumin (Curcuma longa). These capsules have anti-inflammatory properties which are helpful in relieving joint pain. It has Boswellia and curcumin which helps to reduce brain oedema and kills the cancer cells. Has antioxidant properties which help to support the joint movement.

Dosage- 2 capsules twice daily with plain water after meals.

2. Hakam Churna

Hakam Churna is polyherbal churna which is made by planet ayurveda using various ingredients such as Chandershoor (Lepidium sativum), Kalonji (Nigella sativa), Ajwain (Trachyspermum Ammi) and many more. It has anti-inflammatory properties which are useful in joint conditions and helps to balance the tridoshas of the body. Reduces the serum cholesterol level and improves digestion.

Dosage- 1 teaspoon twice daily

3. Yograj Guggul

Yograj Guggul is a herbal tablet which is prepared by planet ayurveda with various ingredients such as Guggul (Commiphora mukul), Jeeraka (Cuminum cyminum), Ela (Elettaria cardamomum) and many more. It has anti-inflammatory properties which help with swelling and heart ailments. Yograj guggul helps to maintain healthy cellular and body functions.

Dosage- 2 tablets twice daily with lukewarm water

4. Ashwagandha Capsules

Ashwagandha Capsules are single herbal capsules which are formulated by Planet Ayurveda using a standardized extract of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera). It helps to strengthen immunity and enhances spermatogenesis and has inflammatory properties. Helpful in strengthening the muscles and maintains the blood flow in the body.

Dosage- 1 capsule twice daily with plain water after meals.

5. Vrihat Vatchintamani Ras

Vrihat Vatchintamani Ras is a classical ayurvedic tablet formulation made by Planet Ayurveda using ingredients such as Swarn Bhasma (Calx of gold), Loha Bhasma (Calx of iron), Mukta Bhasma (Calx of pearl) and many more. These tablets are helpful in Vata imbalance such as in paralysis, tremors and in many more. Helps to maintain the healthy nervous system and functioning of the brain.

Dosage- 1 tablet twice daily

6. Dhanwanthram Tailam

Dhanwanthram Tailam is a classical ayurvedic product which is made by Planet Ayurveda using Kola (Ziziphus jujuba), Bilva (Aegle marmelos), Brihat (Solanum Indicum) and many more. This tailam is helpful in arthritis problems and in Vata imbalance disorders. Helpful in toothache pain and in neuralgia.

Dosage- Massage externally on the affected site.

Contact Planet Ayurveda Support Team to provide you the costing / ordering and delivery information at – costing.planetayurveda@gmail.com or Call at 0172-521-4040 (India), +91-172-521-4040 (Outside India) or Whatsapp at (+91) 9915-593-604

CONCLUSION

August 3, 2023

Radiofrequency Ablation and Herbal Treatment for Frozen Shoulder

Abstract

People who have certain diseases appear to develop frozen shoulders. Inflammation and stiffness around the joint make it difficult to move. Frozen shoulder rarely occurs again but may occur on the other side shoulder with time. This condition is mainly found in females than males and mostly in the age group of 40 years and above. In this article, we will discuss causes, symptoms, and ayurvedic treatment for frozen shoulders.

Introduction

A frozen shoulder is characterized by pain and stiffness of the shoulder joint. It is also called adhesive capsulitis. People with associated diseases like diabetes and heart problems are at risk of developing a Frozen shoulder. The capsule of the shoulder thickens and becomes stiff. In some cases, synovial fluid also becomes less. This leads to restriction in the movement of the shoulder and pain in the joint. This can occur because of injury, overuse of the shoulder, immobilization of the shoulder, and pathological causes. Frozen shoulders may come and go away slowly within 12 to 24 months.

The three stages of a frozen shoulder are

Freezing stage – pain without stiffness
Frozen stage – pain with stiffness
Thawing stage – improve in condition

Ayurvedic Aspect

According to Ayurveda, Frozen shoulder is correlated to Apabahuka. Apabahuka occurs due to the vitiation of Vata dosha along with Kapha dosha. Pain in the joint indicated the involvement of Vata dosha alone while pain along with stiffness in the joints indicated the involvement of Vata dosha along with Kapha dosha anubandh. All its symptoms are the same as explained for the Frozen shoulder. Various treatment modalities are used to manage this condition which is explained in detail further in the article.

Causes

The cause of a Frozen shoulder is not understood very clearly, few factors may increase the chances of developing a Frozen shoulder are

Age more than 40 years
Shoulder trauma
Hormonal imbalance
Systemic diseases like – diabetes, thyroid, and heart diseases.
Spinal surgery

Causes according to Ayurveda

Poor diet (Vata vardhak aahar)
Inadequate lifestyle (sedentary)
Sleeping in the wrong posture
Consuming food with Katu, Tikta, kshaya ras in excess (bitter, pungent, astringent)
Improper sitting and lying patterns

Symptoms

Pain in the Frozen shoulder is the main symptom that can be aching and located in the outer shoulder area. Along with it, other symptoms vary according to the degree of disease

Restricted movement of the shoulder
Cannot raise the arm straight
Pain in the shoulder may radiate to the neck region
Stiffness in joint
Stiffness in muscles
Difficulty in moving shoulder
In some people, the pain worsens at night and may interfere with sleep patterns.

Diagnosis

History, symptoms, and physical examination (by checking pain and stiffness level) are enough to make the diagnosis, but your doctor can suggest some screening tests to rule out the exact cause

X-ray
MRI scan

Treatment

The frozen shoulder gets better with time and goes on its own within 1 to 2 years or more in some cases. Treatment offered to patients is

Analgesics
Steroids
Physical therapy

Radiofrequency Ablation

Radiofrequency Ablation is a procedure to reduce pain in frozen shoulder patients. It is a minimally invasive treatment and is typically performed as an outpatient procedure. In addition to improving pain, there can be an improved range of motion of the shoulder after Radiofrequency Ablation.

Radiofrequency Ablation has many side effects depending upon the severity of the disease. Certain complications are listed below

Bleeding wounds
Scarring
Infections
Damaged blood vessels
Stroke
Vomiting
Feel fatigued
Sleepy for the next few days following the procedure

Treatment in Ayurveda for frozen shoulder

Various treatment modalities for frozen shoulders are performed in Ayurveda. It includes

Abhyanga

Massaging the shoulder with certain medicated oils reduces the tension and stiffness in the joint. Oils and technique are used differently according to the person’s condition.

Pizhichil

Also known as steaming of hot oil or oil bath. It is a purification therapy by eliminating toxins from the body through the skin. It is the topmost rejuvenating ancient treatment for recovering from certain health conditions. Lukewarm oils are applied by experts on the overall body. In the case of a frozen shoulder, the treatment may be localized and done on the shoulder, arm, and neck area, which are mainly involved in the condition.

Potli

Potli swedana is a very effective treatment for frozen shoulders. Various vatanashak leaves are used with vatnaskah or shoolghan oils for swedana. This traditional therapy provides nourishment to the shoulder and reduces the stiffness of the joints. It reduces the Vata dosha in the region and balances the dosha with a reduction in stiffness and pain in the joints.

Diet

Dietary modification is done according to the involvement of doshas in the disease. Since frozen shoulder is a Vata and kapha dominance disease. The diet is recommended based on this perception. Oily, cow ghee, melons, cued, cheese, and milk are included in the diet to reduce the aggravation of Vata dosha. To reduce swelling of the joint, certain anti-inflammatory herbs are included such as – Haldi and black pepper.

Lifestyle modifications

Avoiding activities that can imbalance tridosha helps to improve the condition. Examples – avoiding cold water baths, sitting in air conditioner rooms, practicing exercises and yoga.

Certain yogasanas

that can be done to improve the movement of shoulder joint are – Dhanurasana, Garudasana, and Namaskarasana.

Herbal remedies by Planet AYurveda for Frozen shoulder

Planet Ayurveda is a GMP-certified ayurvedic company that prepares natural medicines using authentic ways. The herbal medicines prepared by the company are prescribed worldwide for the treatment of many disorders. These medicines are 100% pure without any side effects. Also while formulating these remedies, experts take care of not adding any sort of chemical. The preparation of medicines is purely based on ayurvedic principles and strictly follows government guidelines. Our goal is, not to let the disease extend to such a condition that it may need surgery. The Frozen Shoulder Pack of Planet Ayurveda is being used in the treatment of Frozen Shoulder and has wonderful results in managing the condition

Frozen Shoulder Pack

Ingredients list

Boswellia Curcumin
Joint Aid Plus
Aamvatantak Churna
Orthovita Oil
Yograj Guggul
Anu tailam

Ingredients description

1) Boswellia Curcumin

These capsules are a combination of Curcumin (Curcuma longa) and Shallaki (Boswellia serrata). These herbs increase immunity and act as antioxidants. Its anti-inflammatory properties reduce swelling in the shoulder. These capsules are helpful in various bone conditions like- osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and sciatica. These capsules will improve blood circulation in the joint and promote joint health.

Dosage – Have 2 capsules twice with water daily.

2) Joint Aid Plus

This combination is prepared with Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Guggul (Commiphora guggul), Sonth, etc. It aids the joints and provides strength to the muscles and joints. This is helpful in all joint conditions and also in shoulder joints. Consuming capsules regularly will show effective results in frozen shoulders.

Dosage – Have 2 capsules twice with water daily.

3) Aamvatantak Churna –

This classical preparation is composed of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Methi (Trigonella foenum graecum), Haridra (Curcuma longa), etc. It helps to pacify Vata dosha mainly and thus works in relieving pain. Aamvatantak as the name suggests will eliminate aam (toxins) from the body along with balancing Vata dosha disturbance. This will ultimately reduce symptoms and improve the condition of a frozen shoulder.

Dosage – Eat 1 tablespoon full twice daily 10 minutes before a meal.

4) Orthovita Oil

Massaging the joint with this oil helps relieve pain along with the reduction in joint stiffness. In case of loss of synovial fluid, this oil will add lubrication to the joint. It is composed of saindhavadi tail, turpentine oil, gandhapura, etc. this will strengthen the muscles and reduce muscle spasms too.

Dosage – Do a local massage on the shoulder for 10 to 15 minutes.

5) Yograj Guggul

This is a polyherbal preparation of Vidang (Embelia ribes), Guggul (Commiphora guggul), Ajwain (Carum copticum), etc. Yograj guggul has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help to pacify Vata dosha and helps in relieving pain and swelling in joints. It also works on muscle spasms. Thus offers free movement of the joint.

Dosage – Have 2 tablets two times daily with water.

6) Anu tailam

This medicated oil is mainly used for Nasya (nasal route administration). It has herbs like – Daruharidra (Berberis aristata), Jivanti (Leptadenia reticulata), Tilt tel (Sesame oil), etc. Using this oil enhances immunity and strengthens the brain and improves its functioning. Its anti-allergy effects are helpful in conditions like sinusitis and other allergic conditions. It pacifies Vata dosha with anubandh of Kapha dosha in udharvajatrugat disorders, thus helping in easing symptoms of a frozen shoulder.

Dosage –At sunrise every morning, do nasya with 2 drops in each nostril daily

Conclusion

Though frozen shoulder is not a life-threatening disorder, it offers difficulties in everyday work. Working with one hand makes it difficult and the condition may become painful if not treated on time. Choose Ayurveda for a good recovery of the shoulder by strengthening it internally. For more queries visit us at www.planetayurveda.com