A Clinical Study to Evaluate Efficacy of Agnikarma (Locally) and Ashwagandha Ghanavati (Internally ) in the Management of Manyagata Vata w.s.r Cervical Spondylosis

Abstract

Cervical Spondylosis is described as degenerative condition of the cervical spine. It is found most commonly in individuals aged 40-60 years, leads to symptoms like pain, restricted movement stiffness and tingling-numbness at neck region. In Ayurveda, it can be correlated with Manyagata Vata which is managed with various Panchkarma such as Basti, Raktamokshan ,Nasya, Agnikarma etc. Adjuvant to Vata-Kaphashamak and Asthi Dhatuvardhan palliative drugs. The Agnikarma though effective tool for pain management has varied results due to fluctuation in temperature from intermittent heating of shalaka (metallic probe).To overcome this, conventional Agnikarma device is modified with temperature controlling unit (produces constant temperature) and Raupya Shalaka (specially designed silver probe having micro rods)which helped in minimizing the pain as heat is delivered once at desire site. Adjuvantly, Ashwagandha Ghanavati (internally) was given, which acts as Rasayan to Asthi Dhatu (rejuvenating bone tissue). The combination treatment showed statistically significant results in relieving symptoms such as pain, stiffness, flexion, extension, lateral movement of neck and tingling numbness. Out of 50 patients, 92% patients got complete relief from cervical pain, 98 % patients got relieved from Stiffness whereas restricted movements of neck and tingling numbness present was relieved in 96% patients. The device helps in keeping the temperature constant (60^o C) throughout the procedure & desired heat is delivered by keeping the probe in contact for 10seconds at affected site. In this study,Agnikarma with modified device and AshwagandhaGhanavatirevealed their efficacy in relieving symptoms of Manyagatavata. Further, the Agnikarm with modified deviceproved user friendly, safe (without iatrogenic effects) and made procedure swift.