Cervical spondylitis or Spondylosis is very common disease which worsens with age. This is the general term for age-related wear and tear affecting the spinal disks in neck. These discs dehydrate and shrink, bone spurs and other signs of osteoarthritis gradually develop. Cervical spondylitis results in a narrowing of the space needed by the spinal cord and the nerve roots that originate at the spinal cord and pass through the spine to the rest of your body.
Signs and Symptoms of Cervical Spondylitis
If the spinal cord or nerve roots become pinched following symptoms are experienced:
- Tingling, numbness and weakness in your arms, hands, legs or feet.
- Lack of coordination and difficulty walking.
- Loss of bladder or bowel control.
The bones and cartilages of the backbone and neck gradually wear and tear with age. Certain changes like dehydrated disks, herniated disks, bone spurs, stiff ligaments.
Ayurveda Understanding of Cervical Spondylitis
According to the ancient Indian healing wisdom science of Ayurveda Vata, the principle dosha for movement, is the predominant function with the skeleto-muscular system and the nervous system. Problems relating to these systems are predominantly caused by aggravated and imbalanced Vata. Vatavyadhis comes under a group of diseases which is manifested by dhatu kshaya or margavarana and those are classified according to hetu, sthana and lakshana. In the classification of dhatukshayajanya vatavyadhis, many degenerative conditions are considered. Cervical spondylosis can be considered one among them and can be compared with ‘Vishwachi’.
Ayurvedic Remedies for Cervical Spondylitis
Treatment for cervical spondylitis depends on the severity of your signs and symptoms. The goal of treatment is to relieve pain, help you maintain your usual activities as much as possible, and prevent permanent injury to the spinal cord and nerves. Although the modern science medicine uses certain muscle relaxants, anti-seizure drugs, narcotics and steroid injections as pain-relievers.
Panchakarma: Ayurvedic Treatments for Cervical Spondylitis
In Ayurveda, a traditional holistic Indian health care system, Panchakarma Ayurvedic treatments are the best option to reduce the symptoms of neck pain and disc compression as experienced by those suffering from the malady of Cervical Spondylitis.
Panchakarma treatments
Basti (Enema)
This is considered as the mother of all Panchakarma treatments since it cleanses the accumulated toxins from all the 3 doshas, Vata, Pitta and Kapha, through the colon. Medicated oil or ghee and an herbal decoction is given as enema to clean the colon through the rectum and increase the muscle tone.
Kati basti
The process of pouring warm medicated oil for 20 minutes releases stiff, tight and inflamed muscles and the oil penetrates deeply to nourish the ligaments and tendons. A very effective treatment for back pain, stiffness, and other back concerns related to spinal disc problems. The local Marma points are energized, and the warm herbal oil soothes the pain.
Shirodhara
Pouring continuous stream of medicated oil, buttermilk etc on the fore head and doing a gentle & soothing head massage which creates profound relaxation of the mind and body and revitalizes the central nervous system.
Abhyanga
A whole body massage with specific herbal oils, achieves deepest healing effects by naturally harmonizing body, mind, soul and the senses. The oil is massaged into the entire body before bathing or showering to restore the flow of vital energy, Prana, where it has become blocked.
Swedana
Is a traditional steam therapy designed to open tissues with the saturation of heat and moisture. This method reduces inflammation, improving circulation, and promoting healing and restoration reducing pain in cervical (Neck) and Lumbar (Lower back) part.
Patra Pinda Sweda
Medicated oil massage and fomentation with bundle of herbs, which reduces pain and swelling of the joints and also checks degenerative process inside of the body.
Sweda (Medicated Steam bath)
Fomentation with medicated steam for Stiffness due to neurological disorders and gives instant relief from pain, spasm of the muscles, inflammation of the joints.
Nasyam (administration of medicated oil through the nose)
Cleanses accumulated Kapha toxins from the head and neck region.
Elakizhi (herbal leaf bundle massage)
Entire body is massaged with herbal poultices, prepared with various herbs and medicated powder after they are warmed in medicated oils.
Shastika Sali Pinda Swedam/ Navarakizhi
A highly effective rejuvenation technique using a special type of rice that is cooked, tied into boluses and dipped into an herbal decoction and warm milk, then skilfully massaged all over the body.
Pizhichil (medicated oil bath)
Fresh linen dipped in lukewarm medicated oil is squeezed over your body while masseurs slowly and gently rub the oil all over.
Greeva Basti
A treatment done on the neck to decrease cervical spinal compression.
