Slipped Disc
Slipped Disc (SD), also known as a prolapsed or herniated disc occurs when the outer case of the disc ruptures (splits), resulting in the gel inside bulging and protruding out of the disc. This can cause back pain as well as pain in other areas of the body. The damaged disc can put pressure on the whole spinal cord or on a single nerve root. This means that a slipped disc can cause pain, both in the area of the protruding disc and in the area of the body that is controlled by the nerve that the disc is pressing on.
As you get older, your spinal discs start to lose their water content, making them less flexible and more likely to rupture.
According to the Ayurveda pain occurs in the body due to excess of Vata Dosha. This Vata Dosha then disturbs the balance of Pitta and Kapha dosha. Symptoms arise depending upon the quantum of imbalance in these three doshas.
The sciatic nerve is often affected in cases of SD. It is the longest nerve in the body and runs from the back of the pelvis, through the buttocks, down both legs to the feet.
If pressure is placed on the sciatic nerve it can cause
- a lasting, aching pain
- numbness
- a tingling sensation in one or both legs
In Ayurvedic treatment for SD, Marma chikitsa, Meru Chikitsa (Ayurvedic Neuro-Therapy) along with Vatahara chikitsa and Brumhana chikitsa are given utmost importance.
The Yogic management of the condition involves Asanaas which allow the Spine to lengthen so that there is space created between the vertebrae and the discs & provide traction for the spine and revives healthy blood flow into the discs. At Vedicure, majority of patients suffering from SD are benefitted from the Sanyukta Upchar Paddhati® and are able to resume normal life without undergoing surgery!
