Conceptualisation of Agnikarma in Gridhrasi: Exploring Traditional Ayurvedic Approaches to Sciatica.

Abstract

Agnikarma has demonstrated remarkable efficacy in managing pain, a hallmark of its application within Apunarbhava chikitsa. Pain, often the catalyst for seeking medical intervention, can manifest and intensify across different regions of the body. Gridhrasi, a condition delineated in Vatavyadhi, manifests symptoms such as radiating pain from the lower back or hip area to the ankle or posterolateral portion of the foot. This aligns with sciatica, where discomfort originates in the lumbar region and progresses along the pathway of the sciatic nerve, increasing in severity. While painkillers offer transient relief, they do not address the underlying cause of sciatica, typically stemming from substantial nerve compression. Prolonged usage of pain medication is also discouraged due to potential adverse effects on the body. Ayurveda prescribes treatment for Gridhrasi encompassing Siravedha (Venesection), Basti (Enema therapy), and Agnikarma (Thermal cauterization). Agnikarma, synonymous with thermal cauterization, constitutes a traditional Ayurvedic therapeutic modality involving the application of heat for diverse health benefits, including pain alleviation, inflammation reduction, and facilitation of tissue healing. It is imperative to acknowledge that the efficacy of Agnikarma may vary, necessitating its administration under the supervision of qualified Ayurvedic practitioners. In the context of sciatica (Gridhrasi), Agnikarma is recommended along the trajectory of the sciatic nerve and at its originating points. This paper explores the multifaceted dimensions of Agnikarma as applied in everyday clinical practice.