Abstract

THE THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL OF KATIBASTI IN MANAGEMENT OF GRIDHRASI (SCIATICA): A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW

Bharati Lata Acharya* and Bipin Bihari Khuntia

ABSTRACT

Kati basti, a popular practice of Panchakarma in Ayurveda is a therapeutic procedure that combines both external oleation therapy (Known as Bahyasnehana) and fomentation therapy (Swedana Chikitsa). Despite not being mentioned in classical sources, it is referred to as Basti due to the application of medicated and lubricated substances to specific body areas particularly the lower back. Gridhrasi described in Ayurveda aligns with the pain-dominant degenarative disorder, Sciatica in modern medical science. Here the pain initiates from the Sphik Pradesh (Lower back region) and radiates towards the buttock along with the postero-lateral aspect of the lower limb. In general, 5-10% of people with low back pain have sciatica, but the lifetime prevalence of low back pain is believed to be between 49% and 70%. Kati basti is highly beneficial for relieving muscle spasms, alleviating lower back tightness, and promoting the strengthening of bone tissues in the back region. This approach provides a non-invasive and effective solution to such common problems like backache and sciatica.

Keywords: Kati basti, Gridhrasi, Sciatica.