Ayurvedic Management of Greeva Sandhigata Vata (Cervical Spondylosis): A Single Case Study

Background: Greeva Sandhigata Vata is a degenerative disorder predominantly affecting the cervical spine, characterized by pain (Shoola), stiffness (Stambha), and restriction of neck movements (Akunchana-Prasarana Vedana), leading to functional disability. It closely correlates with cervical spondylosis in contemporary medicine , a condition rising in prevalence due to sedentary lifestyles, prolonged computer use, improper posture, and age-related degeneration. Ayurveda attributes this pathogenesis to the aggravation and localization of Vata Dosha in the cervical joints (Greeva Sandhi). Case Description A 41-year-old male presented to the Panchakarma Outpatient Department (OPD) with a 1.5-month history of cervical pain and mild restricted neck movements that severely disrupted his daily routine. Clinical examination revealed cervical tenderness and muscle spasm. The Samprapti Ghataka (pathogenesis components) identified Vata Pradhana as the primary Dosha, Asthi and Majja as the affected Dushyas, and Mandagni as the state of digestion. Methods: The patient was treated with a combined protocol of Panchakarma procedures and Shamana Chikitsa (internal medicine) for 10 days · Panchakarma Procedures: Greevabasti and Patra Pinda Pottali Swedan, both administered using Ksheerbala Taila. · Shamana Chikitsa: Twice-daily oral administration of Kaishore Guggulu (2 tablets with lukewarm water), Dashamoola Kwatha (30 ml), and Ashwagandha Churna (3 g with lukewarm water). · Diet & Lifestyle: Consumption of warm, easily digestible food, avoidance of prolonged neck flexion, and performance of cervical isometric exercises. Results: The 10-day intervention yielded substantial clinical improvement across all assessment parameters · Cervical Pain: Decreased from Grade 4 (Very Severe) to Grade 1 (Very Mild). · Restricted Movement: Resolved completely from Grade 1 (Mild Restriction) to Grade 0 (No Restriction). · Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) Score: Dropped significantly from 90 (Severe Pain) to 15 (Mild Pain). · Neck Disability Index (NDI) Score: Reduced from 58% (Severe Disability) to 30% (Moderate Disability), with marked improvements in sleep and personal care. Conclusion: This single case study demonstrates that a comprehensive Ayurvedic protocol targeting Vata pacification and Dhatu nourishment can provide safe, cost-effective, and highly effective symptomatic relief while restoring functional capacity in patients suffering from Greeva Sandhigata Vata.