Ayurvedic Management of Cervical Dystonia With Anxiety Disorder

The incidence of cervical dystonia is increasing in clinical practice and is recognized as a chronic movement disorder characterized by involuntary contractions of cervical muscles leading to abnormal postures of the neck. In modern medicine, it is classified under focal dystonias of neurological origin, whereas in Ayurveda, its clinical presentation can be correlated with Vata-pradhana Vyadhi, particularly involving Vyana and Udana Vata with Mamsa and Snayu Dushti. Classical Ayurvedic texts impaired Dosha gati and Srotorodha play a major role. The etiological factors include improper posture, repetitive strain, mental stress, trauma, and lifestyle-related Vata aggravation. Though not directly lifethreatening, cervical dystonia significantly affects quality of life and may be associated with pain, functional disability, and psychological distress. Diagnosis is based on clinical features, neurological evaluation, and imaging when required. Ayurvedic management emphasizes Nidana Parivarjana, Shodhana, Shamana, Panchakarma procedures, physiotherapy, Yoga, and lifestyle modification, aiming to restore Dosha balance and improve neuromuscular function.1