Managing Cervical Spondylosis with Ayurvedic Treatment

Understanding Cervical Spondylosis

Cervical Spondylosis refers to the deterioration of bones and intervertebral discs in the neck, leading to various health issues, including herniated discs and bone spurs (excessive bone growth at the ends). It is a common condition that intensifies with age, often causing neck pain and stiffness. Managing cervical spondylosis in ayurvedic way reduces the symptoms and get relief naturally.

Changes in the spinal structure due to aging are normal, with spinal degeneration typically beginning with age. Many individuals over 60 show signs of cervical spondylosis and osteoarthritis, which can be seen in neck X-ray reports. Though initially asymptomatic, most people can manage symptoms with nonsurgical treatments when they do arise.

Ayurveda parallels cervical spondylosis with Greeva Stambha, a disorder of Vata Dosha. Vyana Vayu primarily governs bodily movement.

Causes of Cervical Spondylosis

Cervical spondylosis develops due to the gradual wear and tear of the neck and backbone structures with age. The causes include: 

1. Bone Spurs: Excessive bone growth occurs as the body attempts to strengthen the spine. However, this extra bone can press against sensitive nerve regions, causing pain. 
2. Dehydrated Discs: The gel-like substance inside the spinal discs can dry out over time. This leads to increased friction between spinal bones, causing pain.
3. Herniated Discs: Spinal discs can develop cracks, causing the internal cushioning fluid to leak. This can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots, resulting in symptoms such as arm numbness and radiating pain.
4. Stiff Ligaments: The ligaments connecting spinal bones can stiffen with age, affecting neck flexibility.
5. Occupational Factors: Repetitive neck movements, heavy weight lifting, and a sedentary lifestyle can put extra pressure on the spine, leading to early neck bone wear and tear.

Symptoms of Cervical Spondylosis

Initially, cervical spondylosis may not present any symptoms, but gradually neck stiffness and pain can develop. Sometimes, it may lead to spinal cord or nerve root compression, causing symptoms such as:

• Tingling sensation, numbness, and weakness in the neck, extending to the arms, hands, legs, or feet.
• Difficulty coordinating muscles and bones and walking. 
• Loss of bladder or bowel control.
• Headaches.
• Neck stiffness and a grinding sensation during movement.
• Difficulty maintaining balance.

Ayurvedic Approaches for Cervical Spondylosis

Ayurveda attributes cervical spondylosis symptoms to an imbalance in Vata Dosha and offers natural treatments to manage the condition. These include medicines and Panchakarma therapies like Basti (medicated enema), depending on the individual’s response. Ayurvedic treatments aim to harmonize the doshas in the body, considering any irregularity in body functions as a result of dosha imbalance. 

Panchakarma Treatments for Cervical Spondylosis include:

1. Abhyanga Swedam: Traditional Ayurvedic body massage using medicated oils followed by an herbal steam bath (Sweda). 
2. Elakizhi: Improves muscle strength, reduces body pain, stiffness, and slows down aging. 
3. Nasyam: Helps to clean nasal passages, mucus, and sinuses, improves voice, mental clarity, and vision.
   
4. Shirovasti or Shirodhara: Relaxed, therapeutic head massage with medicated oil poured over the forehead.
   
5. Sarvangadhara: Effective against degenerative diseases, muscular pain, and joint stiffness. 
6. Greeva Basti: Relieves sprains, strains, headaches, and neck pain. 
7. Navara Kizhi: Prevents the degeneration of joint tissues and muscles and relieves arthritis and neurological complaints. 
8. Pizhichil: Enhances blood circulation and releases toxins from the body. 

All therapies are customized based on the patient’s condition and the severity of the disease. Dietary and Lifestyle Remedies for Cervical Spondylitis include: 

1. Regular Exercise: Neck and back exercises can relieve pain. 
2. Hot and Cold Compresses: Alternating hot and cold compresses can improve blood circulation and reduce swelling and inflammation. 
3. Epsom Salt Bath: Epsom salt contains magnesium, which can reduce inflammation and neck pain.
4. Ginger: Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce neck inflammation. 
5. Sesame Seeds: Rich in minerals, sesame seeds can reduce pain. 
6. Turmeric: Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce neck swelling. 
7. Garlic: Garlic has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that can ease neck inflammation.
8. Yoga and Diet: Ayurvedic treatment for neck pain includes diet and yoga.

Studies indicate that incorporating yoga and a balanced diet into one’s daily regimen can significantly mitigate the effects of Cervical Spondylitis. Certain natural herbs have also been shown to promote joint flexibility and movement. Moreover, Panchakarma techniques have proven effective in managing cervical spondylosis by reducing pain and muscle inflammation. Consequently, Ayurvedic Treatment provides a natural approach to managing cervical spondylosis. Raha Ayurveda is the best hospital in Kochi, providing the best cervical spondylosis Ayurvedic treatment. For a life devoid of pain and discomfort, consider reaching Raha Ayurveda and consult expert Ayurvedic Doctors.