Background:Lumbar spondylotic radiculopathy is a degenerative spinal condition characterized by low backpain radiating to the lower limb due to nerve root compression. Age-related disc degeneration,canal narrowing, and osteoarthritic changes contribute to progressive neurological symptoms.In Ayurveda, this clinical presentation closely resembles Vata-Kaphaja Gridhrasi, a subtypeof Vatavyadhi involving radiating pain from Kati to the lower extremities along with stiffnessand restricted movement. The underlying pathology can be interpreted as Margavarana of Vatawith associated Asthi-Majja dhatu dushti. The present case study evaluates the effect of anintegrated Panchakarma-based intervention in such a condition.Treatment:A 58-year-old male patient with chronic low back pain radiating to the right lower limb wastreated with a 21-day integrative protocol. The management included daily Sarvanga Snehanausing Nirgundi Taila and Vishagarbha Taila followed by Sarvanga Svedana with PatrapotaliSwedana. A modified Basti schedule was administered on alternate days comprisingAnuvasana Basti (Sahacharadi Taila, 100 ml, after food) and Niruha Basti (ErandamooladiBasti, 640 ml, empty stomach). Kati Basti with Dhanvantaram Kuzhambu was performed dailyfor 30 minutes. Lumbar traction for 15 minutes daily was incorporated as supportiveconservative therapy.Results:Following completion of therapy, marked reduction in radiating pain, stiffness, and difficultyin walking was observed. Straight leg raising test showed significant improvement. The patientreported better functional mobility and reduced dependency on analgesics.Conclusion:The integrated Panchakarma protocol, particularly Basti therapy combined with localprocedures and lumbar traction, demonstrated beneficial outcomes in managing Vata-KaphajaGridhrasi corresponding to lumbar spondylotic radiculopathy. This approach may provide asafe and effective conservative management option in degenerative compressive spinaldisorders.
Srushti Jagadale (Thu,) studied this question.