Tag: Piriformis syndrome

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

April 12, 2023

Ayurvedic Solutions for Sciatica Treatment and Prevention

Abstract

Sciatica is a debilitating condition in which a patient suffers pain and paresthesias in the sciatic nerve distribution. It is commonly referred to as any lower back pain or radicular leg pain. The pain is associated with the pathology of the sciatic nerve or sciatic nerve root pathology. The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body. Pain due to the sciatic nerve will worsen with the flexion of the lumbar spine, twisting, and bending. Motor functioning of lower extremities adductors and hamstring is directed by the sciatic nerve. It also provides indirect motor functioning to the calf muscles and anterior lower leg muscles. The sciatic nerve provides sensation to the lower and posterior aspects of the legs and also the plantar aspect of the feet. Is due to the inflammatory changes in the nerve and causes irritation of the nerve. Direct compression of nerves leads to motor dysfunction. Let’s discuss this in detail!

Introduction

Sciatica is a painful condition in which the sciatic nerve of one or both legs is involved. It is much associated with lower back pain radiating to the legs and affects the movement of the legs. It is a neuromuscular disorder. As per the ayurvedic system of medicine it is known as Gridhrasi. The word Gridhrasi is derived from the word Gridhra which means Vulture ( a bird ). The gait of the patients resembles a vulture that’s why it is known as Gridhrasi. The gait is altered as the legs become tense and slightly curved due to pain. Sciatica is characterised by severe pain just like the pain felt by the prey of the vulture while being eaten up. This painful sensation is due to the vitiation of vata dosha.

Sciatica Pain

SYMPTOMS

Pain initiates from the hip area and radiates to the thigh, back, and sacral region.
Pain in calf muscles and feet.
Pricking sensation in the thigh region.
Altered gait.
Stiffness over the whole limb.
Weakness and numbness over legs and feet.
Hard to stand up.

CAUSES

Herniated or slipped disc:- Pressure on the nerve root is caused by herniated or slipped disc. This is one of the most common causes of sciatica.
Spinal stenosis:- It is the abnormal narrowing of the spinal canal. This leads to the narrowing of spaces for the passage of spinal nerves.
Spondylolisthesis:- It is the slippage of one vertebra so that it is out of line one above it and narrows the nerve exit. The extended spinal cord pinches the sciatic nerve.
Osteoarthritis:- Jagged edges of bones compresses the lower back nerves.
Trauma:- Trauma injury to the lumbar spine and sciatic nerve.
Muscle Spasm:- Small muscles that lie in the buttocks become tight and spasm. This can irritate the sciatic nerve.
Cauda Equina Syndrome:- This condition affects the bundle of nerves at the end of the spinal cord. This causes pain down the leg and numbness around the anus.

DIAGNOSIS

1. Physical Examination

The physician will ask you to walk and notice how your spine carries your weight. Later you should be asked to walk on your toes to check the strength of your calf muscles.

1. Leg Raising Test

You have to lie on your back with straight legs. Then you have to slowly raise the legs and determine the point where the pain begins. This helps to identify the disc problems.

2. Radio imaging

X- Rays:- To look for spinal fractures, disc problems, infections, and tumours.
MRI:- MRI can show pressure on nerves, disc herniation, and any arthritic condition.
Electromyography:- This is for examination of electrical impulses and how we’ll travel through the sciatic nerve.
Myelogram:- To determine if a vertebra or bone is causing pain.

AYURVEDIC OVERVIEW OF GRIDHRASI (SCIATICA )

Ayurveda is an ancient science that believes that a disease is caused due to the vitiation of doshas or by strotas dushti. When the pressure is exerted on the Gridhrasi Nadi ( sciatic nerve ) then there is a sensation of pain from the Kati Pradesh ( Lower back ) to the foot. In this disease, four strotas are being vitiated ( stroto dushti ).

Raktavaha strotas
Mansvaha strotas
Medovaha strotas
Pranvaha strotas

Gridhrasi is explained as among 80 types of vata imbalance disorders. It is a specific type of pain that travels from Stick Pradesh through the back of the Kati Pradesh and Urru till the foot.

COMMON CAUSES OF GRIDHRASI

Intake of vata aggravating foods like Bengal gram, Pigeon pea, Red lentils, and Flat beans.
Excessive intake of dry and cold food.
Suppression of mala ( urine and faeces)
Excess of walking
Trauma or injury

TYPES OF GRIDHRASI

There are two types of gridhrasi mentioned below:-

Vataj Gridhrasi
Vata kaphaja Gridhrasi

Symptoms of Vataj Gridhrasi

Shooting type pain
The curved posture of the leg and body
Stiffness and tingling sensation in the joints of the waist, thigh, and knee

Symptoms of Vata Kaphaja Gridhrasi

Poor appetite
Drowsiness
Excessive salivation
Anorexia

AYURVEDIC LINE OF TREATMENT

As this is the vata disorder, pacifying all vata measures should be undertaken.

Panchkarma

Snehan:- Application and pouring of oil over the affected area should be carried out.
Swedana :- Application of Poultice ( upnaha swed ) is effective.
Anuvasan Basti:- It is performed with saindhavadi oil.
Virechan:- In case of constipation virechan should be done.
Agni karma:- This is done in severe painful areas. It is done by using a metallic rod.

Herbs useful in sciatica

Nirgundi
Bala
Punarnava
Eranda
Shigru
Rasna
Jambira
Masha

HERBAL REMEDIES FOR SCIATICA BY PLANET AYURVEDA

Planet Ayurveda is a GMP-certified company offering products worldwide. All the products are prepared by following the ayurvedic texts under the guidance of MD Ayurveda experts. All the products are safe and devoid of all kinds of adverse effects. Let’s have a look at the formulations:-

SCIATICA CARE PACK

HAKAM CHURNA
BOSWELLIA CURCUMIN
YOGRAJ GUGGUL
ASHWAGANDHA CAPSULES
VRIHAT VATCHINTAMANI RAS
DHANWANTHRAM TAILAM

PRODUCTS DESCRIPTION

1. HAKAM CHURNA

It is a wonderful preparation by Planet Ayurveda. This is a classical herbal preparation that is very effective in sciatica and back pain disorders. This combination is also known as Tridoshic Rasayan. It affects all three doshas. Vata regulates the brain and nervous system, Pitta controls metabolism and Kapha maintains the body structure. Hakam Churna is a mixture of herbs like Chandershoor ( Lepidium sativum ), Kalonji ( Nigella sativaa ), Methi (Trigonella foenum graecum ), Ajwain ( Trachyspermum ammi ). All four herbs are present in equal quantity. It has the properties to bring vata in balance. It also improves digestion and decreases stiffness and pain.

Dosage:- 1 tsp. twice daily with warm water, after meals.

2. BOSWELLIA CURCUMIN

Boswellia curcumin capsules prepared by planet Ayurveda are the best preparation for inflammatory disorders. The results are long-lasting and the anti-inflammatory effect is permanent. This herb is effective and safe to consume as there are no side effects. The combination is very powerful for joint inflammation in vertebrae. Boswellia extract is generally made from tree gum. It contains at least 15 triterpene acids. Boswellia contains boswellic acid which is a very good anti-inflammatory and supports healthy joint functioning by inhibiting the leukotrienes. The addition of curcumin not only supports joint movements but is also a rich antioxidant. This combination provides comprehensive immune support.

Dosage:– 2 capsules twice daily with warm water, after meals.

3. YOGRAJ GUGGUL

Yograj Guggul is an ayurvedic preparation in tablet form which maintains the balance of vata in the body. It is a combination of various ingredients. It contains Chitraka (Plumbago zeylancia), Yavani (Trachyspermum ammi), Pippalimoola (Trachyspermum ammi), Karavi (Piper chaba), etc. All herbs are taken in fine powdered form. Guggul is melted and all the herbs are added to it. It is converted into tablet form in a uniform size of around 500 mg.

Dosage:- 2 tablets twice daily with warm water, after meals.

4. VRIHAT VATCHINTAMANI RAS

Vrihat Vatchintamani Ras is a classical preparation that is effective in balancing vata dosha. It is used in various nervous disorders. It contains ingredients like Swarna Bhasma, Abhrak Bhasma, Rajat Bhasma, Praval Bhasma, etc. It is enriched with antioxidants, anti-aging, nerve tonic, and many more properties. It is excellent for increasing the strength of the body. It reduces the chances of age-related health issues. It is very effective in removing toxins from the body.

Dosage:- 1 tablet twice daily with warm water twice daily, after meals.

5. DHANWANTHARAM TAILAM

Dhanwanthram tailam is an ayurvedic oil preparation. It is effective in treating vata dosha disorders. This preparation is based on Kerala ayurvedic practice. It contains herbs like Balamool ( Sida cordifolia ), Agnimanth (Premna mucronate), Patala (Stereospermum suaveolens), Shyonaka (Oroxylum Indicum), etc. No side effects of this oil on external administration are noted.

Dosage:- Massage externally after warming it up through a water bath method.

DIET AND LIFESTYLE CHANGES

DONOT’S

Avoid exercises that stretch your hamstring
Avoid sitting for longer times more than 20 minutes
Avoid the bed rest
Avoid bending over
Avoid twisting your spine
Avoid prolonged walking

DO’S

Take a high-fibre diet
Maintain adequate body weight
Drink plenty of water
Mobilise and extend the lower back
Oil massages

CONCLUSION

Sciatica is a disease of the nervous system. It is characterised by radiating pain in the sciatic nerve. A person suffering from sciatica can have a great result by taking these formulations which have negligible side effects. This is far better than having painkillers that only act as symptomatic relief. Still, it is recommended that an expert’s advice should be taken before starting the treatment.