SLIP DISC

Ayurvedic Treatment of Slip Disc

Ayurvedic treatment for a slipped disc typically involves a combination of herbal remedies, therapeutic massages, dietary modifications, and lifestyle adjustments.

A slipped disc occurs when the outer ring becomes weak or torn and allows the inner portion to slip out. This can happen with age. Certain motions may also cause a slipped disc. A disc can slip out of place while you are twisting or turning to lift an object. Lifting a very large, heavy object can place great strain on the lower back, resulting in a slipped disc. If you have a very physically demanding job that requires a lot of lifting, you may be at increased risk for slipped discs.

Overweight individuals are also at increased risk for a slipped disc because their discs must support the additional weight. Weak muscles and a sedentary lifestyle may also contribute to the development of a slipped disc.

As you get older, you are more likely to experience a slipped disc. This is because your discs begin to lose some of their protective water content as you age. As a result, they can slip more easily out of place. They are more common in men than women.

Causes of Slip Disc

A slipped disc, also known as a herniated or ruptured disc, occurs when the soft inner portion of an intervertebral disc protrudes through the outer layer. The most common causes include age-related degeneration, where discs lose water content and flexibility over time, making them more susceptible to damage. Sudden, heavy lifting, or twisting motions can also lead to disc displacement. Trauma, injuries, or accidents may contribute to herniation. Genetics can play a role, as some individuals may have a predisposition to disc problems. Factors such as obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and smoking can increase the risk of disc issues. Understanding these causes is crucial for prevention and appropriate management of slipped discs.

Treatment of Slip Disc

The Ayurvedic texts consider the disc as a representative of Majaa Dhatu and Kapha dosha. Kapha is one of the three primary doshas managing and governing our body. It is responsible for maintaining lubrication and water content all over our body. Since the jelly in the discs comes under this category, the cause of slip disc lies in vitiation of Kapha dosha.

Majaa Dhatu, on the other hand, keeps all our bones intact. Therefore, the slip disc treatment in ayurveda includes virechana, Basti and Nasya from classical Panchakarma. There are some other procedures like – Shalwana Sweda, Updeha, Kati Basti, Greeva Basti, etc. Most of all these procedures have oils and ghee. We use medicated ghee and oils. The Ayurvedic slip disc treatment involves close monitoring and repair of these two aspects.

The treatment begins with Panchakarma therapies as mentioned above like Kati Basti, Greeva Basti, Shalwana Sweda, and application of herbal lepa depending on the kind of slip disc the patient is suffering from. Most of these therapies and medication includes ample amounts of ghee and oil that relubricates the dried parts of the disc and brings relief to the patient. Along with this, yoga is essentially included in the patient’s routine to improve flexibility, physical activity and strength.