Ayurvedic Treatment for Intervertebral Disc Prolapse (IVDP)
Intervertebral Disc Prolapse (or IVDP) is caused by Vata vitiation according to the principles mentioned in the scriptures of the ancient Ayurvedic Science. Treatments such as Vasti therapy, Agni karma, and Siravedha are considered to be effective in improving para-spinal muscles to gain strength and mobility. Alongside these therapeutical treatments, some herbal formulations such as eranda taila, dhanwantara taila, sahacharadi kashayam, and maharasnadi kashayam are also prescribed to alleviate inflammation and pain. In this way, the whole disc prolapse rehabilitation program along with physiotherapy sessions is considered beneficial in managing symptoms of disc bulge or spinal canal stenosis.
The term Spondylosis is used to signify deteriorating changes in the intervertebral discs. Cervical spondylosis is a condition that happens due to degeneration of the discs in cervical region and such changes at lumbar region cause lumbar spondylosis. IVDP defined as intervertebral disc prolapse which occurs due to improper postures, trauma and due to degeneration.
The frequency of these conditions is growing at an alarming rate particularly among people working with computers and those who are having sedentary jobs. Individuals with cervical spondylosis will have pain and numbness in the neck and arm in variable intensities. Low back pain is the common appearance of lumbar spondylosis. IVDP causes stiffness and pain in the low back region that radiates pain and numbness in the leg. These conditions, if continued causes severe disability to such an extent that the individual will have to change his profession many times.
A prolapsed intervertebral disc is also identified as slipped disc. Here, there would be a bulging out of the inner part of the disc. This is a condition which affects the spine in which there is a tear in the outer fibrous ring of an intervertebral disc allowing the soft central portion to bulge.
The intervertebral discs are present between the vertebral bodies of the spine. The discs would be rubber or jelly-like and they act like cushion to the spine when it bends. The discs consist of gelatinous inner nucleus pulposus and strong outer annulus fibrosus.
Symptoms:
- Ligament pressure (backache)
- Nerve root compression (paresthesia, numbness, and weakness)
- Pressure on dural envelope of nerve root
- Cauda equine compression -urinary retention
Ayurvedic Treatment for Disc Prolapse :
As per Ayurveda, the conditions which can result in back pain include external truamatic factor that is abhighataja, and internal factor that is nija. Joints are sites of sleshaka sleshma (kapha) and lower back (kati) is a vata specific site. According to Ayurveda, an intervertebral disc prolapse problems occurs at three levels. Mamsa dhatu, majja dhatu and asthi dhatu, are the three different tissue levels. Mamsa means muscles; asthi means bones, and majja means everything which is present in the bones.
Causes:
- Trauma
- Wear and tear
- Overweight
- Less toned muscle
- Hyper functioning back bone
- Genes
- Abnormal growth in vertebral spine
Treatments:
Detoxification, that helps in reducing inflammation (Pittahara), healing of the damaged disc (mamsa bhagna), to reduce pain (vedanahara) and to strengthen the region (Rasayana).
- Other modalities also include external therapies, panchakarma, internal medications, advice of life styles and food changes.
- Panchakarma Basti, Virechana, and Nasya
- External PPS, Abhyanga, Kashaya Seka, SSPS, Lepa, kati basti
- Internal Reducing inflammation (Pittahara)
- Healing of the damaged disc (mamsa bhagna)
- Reducing the pain (vedanahara)
- Strengthening the region (Rasayana)
Authored by Dr. Kiran B
FAQ
What is a disc prolapse, and how does it happen?
Have you ever felt a sharp pain in your back after bending awkwardly or lifting something heavy? That might be a disc slipping out of place—a condition called disc prolapse. It happens when the soft cushion between your spine’s bones gets pushed out and presses on nearby nerves. It can feel frustrating, especially when simple movements trigger that discomfort.
How does Ayurveda treat disc prolapse?
Ayurveda takes a gentle, holistic approach. Warm oil therapies like Kati Basti are used to soothe the back, while herbal treatments focus on reducing inflammation and strengthening the spine. Think of it as a way to relax your body while also giving it the tools to heal naturally.
Can Ayurveda provide long-term relief from disc prolapse?
Absolutely, but it’s a process. Ayurveda works on the root cause rather than just masking the pain. Over time, therapies, herbs, and some small lifestyle adjustments can bring lasting relief and help prevent the issue from coming back.
What lifestyle changes can help manage a disc prolapse?
Simple things can make a world of difference. Avoid sitting for too long—try to stand or stretch every hour if you’re at a desk. Gentle yoga poses, like Cat-Cow or Child’s Pose, can help keep your spine happy. Oh, and don’t forget your diet—foods like turmeric and leafy greens are great for reducing inflammation.
How long does it take to see results with Ayurvedic treatment for disc prolapse?
Healing takes time. Some people notice relief after a few sessions of therapies like Kati Basti, while others with more severe cases might need a few months. The goal isn’t just to feel better—it’s to stay better, and that’s worth the patience.
Testimonials
Lee John
Many thanks to you and your team for the very high standard of care and attention you gave to my mother who was suffering from low disc problem from past many years. She was given IP treatment including Ayurvedic Panchakarma and Physiotherapy. My father and I are both very grateful for your hard work and…
Keep readingVeer Kumar, Hyderabad
I was suffering from lower back problem since quite long time. To my luck I came to know about Vaidya Ayurveda through my friend and I have under gone Panchakarma treatment and during treatment I found very helpful. I strongly recommend as I could completely came out of my serious problem.
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