Conceptual Review on Gridhrasi (sciatica)

Abstract

Now a day’s most common disorder which effects the movements of leg particular in middle age is low backache pain which effects daily routine work. Gridhrasi is one among Vataja Nanatmaja Vyadhi. It is pain dominant lifestyle disorder in which the pain starts from Sphik Pradesh & radiates down to foot, here piercing type of pain which restricts the movement of the affected leg, make his walking pattern-like bird vulture and put him in disgraceful condition. On the basis of the symptoms sciatica can be correlated with Gridhrasi in Ayurveda. About 80–90% of people get affected by low back pain and 5% of those become victims of sciatica. It is common between 30-40 yrs. of age & affects both the sex. It is a pain dominant disease and reduces human activity in terms of personal as well as social and professional life. Ayurveda categorized Gridhrasi as one of diseases caused by vitiation of Vata which is responsible for the movement and functions of the body, even Kapha vitiation along with Vata also causes Vata-Kaphaja Gridhrasi. As far as treatment of the disease sciatica is concerned, use of analgesics and physiotherapy will help to certain extent but are not the ultimate cure. Surgery is moreover expensive, and again there are chances of recurrence as well. Ayurveda gives better options in the management of this painful disorder.