A clinical study to evaluate the efficacy of Raktamokshana with Ghati Yantra in Gridhrasi w.s.r. to Sciatica

Abstract

Gridhrasi, one among the Vatavyadhi, is characterised by Stambha, Ruk, Toda, Grahana and Spandhana. It starts from Sphik pradesha and radiates down through the Prushtabhaga of Kati, Uru, Janu, Jangha and Pada. Kandara gets afflicted by the vitiated Vata to produce the clinical features of Gridhrasi. The two Kandara, one extending distally from Paarshni to toes and other extending above from the Paarshni to the Vitapa are involved. Sciatica is defined as a radiating pain along the course of the sciatic nerve and is felt in the back, buttocks, posterior of the thigh, legs and the foot. Sciatica has been reported to occur in 1 to 10% of the population, most commonly in the age group of 25 - 45 years. Single sitting of Raktamokshana was carried out and the parameters were reviewed after 7 days, 14 days and 21 days and changes in parameter were documented. There was significant reduction in the subjective symptoms such as pain, stiffness, numbness, twitching, functional disability and improvement in functional ability. Further, there was improvement in the objective parameters such as SLR test, Lasegue Test, femoral nerve stretch test and there was increased range of movements like flexion and extension when compared to before treatment. Raktamokshana using Ghati Yantra has proven effective both clinically and statistically in relieving the symptoms thus providing promising results in Gridhrasi.