Article · Volume 15, Issue 4 · pp. 431–441

Management of Lumbar Radiculopathy with Ayurveda: A Single Case Study

Ankush Makode¹, Shweta Parwe¹, Milind Nisargandha², Punam Sawarkar¹

¹Department of Panchakarma, Mahatma Gandhi Ayurveda College, Hospital & Research Centre, Salod (H), Wardha, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education & Research (D.M.I.H.E.R.) (D.U.), Wardha, Maharashtra, India.
²Department of Physiology Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, Thandalam, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.

Abstract

Background: Lumbar radiculopathy refers to the compression of a nerve root as it exits the lumbosacral column. The word “radiculopathy” describes symptoms that develop when the lumbosacral nerve roots are compressed. This comprises varying degrees of radiating pain, numbness or tingling, weakness, and irregular gait. The patient was treated with Panchakarma procedures and Ayurvedic oral medications, resulting in satisfactory outcomes with no reported side effects.Purpose: The study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Panchakarma and Ayurvedic oral medications in treating lumbar radiculopathy.Methodology: A single case study of a 21-year-old male suffering from pain in the lumbar region radiating to the right leg, restricted movement, and difficulty walking and standing for nine months. He was treated with Panchakarma, including local massage, Katibasti, Matravasti, Niruha Vasti, and Patrapottali Sweda, followed by oral medications. Treatment was continued for 14 days.Results: The patient’s symptoms have been monitored for 14 days. The outcome was satisfactory, and the patient’s quality of life significantly improved.Conclusion: Interventions stated earlier give significant relief in the management of lumbar Radiculopathy.

Keywords: Ayurveda; lumbar radiculopathy; panchakarma; shaman chikitsa

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