Effects of agni karma in the management of gridhrasi – a clinical study

Abstract

Due to alteration in people's life style, the disease Gridhrasi (Sciatica) is frequently seen in the society, as a prominent problem. In this disease, patient becomes incapable to do their daily routine work because of severe pain from Kati-pradesh (lumber region) to Gulfa-sandhi (ankle-joint). Where the treatment of sciatica is concern, only symptomatic management and a very few surgical procedures are only available in conventional medical science. All these are having their complications and side effects. On the other hand these management tools are not always affordable for the underprivileged section of people in countries like India. In this regard few Ayurvedic para-surgical procedures, which are very effective, simple, safe and cheap in nature can became handy for Ayurvedicians. Agnikarma is one of such procedures. Sushrutacharya mentioned Agnikarma chikitsa in the management of Sira,(Vain), Snayu(Nerve), Sandhi(Joints),  and Gridhrasi(Sciatica).

Charakacharya mentioned Agnikarma chikitsa in the management of Gridhrasi(Sciatica) at the site of Antara-Kandara-Gulpha pradesha.

 Moreover in Ayurveda various other types of management regarding Gridhrasi (Sciatica) like Snehana, Swedana, and Shamana yoga etc. are also indicated. In the study 18 patients were treated in two groups, one group by Agnikarma therapy and another by Snehan-swedana and shaman yoga for a duration of one month. Comparative efficacy was assessed by statistical analysis.

Maximum result was noticed in the group treated with Agnikarma therapy by showing 100% relief in most of the cardinal features of the disease, and 85% improvement SLR test.