Ayurvedic Treatments for Cervical Spondylosis

Cervical spondylosis is a very common health issue in which the bones and disks in the neck region get degenerated. Middle-aged and elderly people suffer the most from this issue. In this, the patient experiences severe pain, numbness and stiffness around the neck area; and because of this they are unable to move their neck freely.

Factors Leading to Cervical Spondylosis

  • Ageing
  • Increased levels of Vata Dosha
  • Neck injuries
  • Inactive lifestyle
  • Metabolic disorders
  • Bad eating habits & unhealthy food causing gas formation in the body
  • People working night shifts
  • Genetic reasons
  • Lack of exercise
  • Long work hours
  • Excess of physical & mental activities

Ayurvedic Treatments for Cervical Spondylosis

Abhyanga-Swedan: In this, the patient is treated by giving ayurvedic massage therapy that is followed by fomentation. The treatment process usually takes 60 to 90 minutes. Medicated oils are used in the massage that includes gentle pressure and deep kneading around the neck area of the patient. It brings great relief to the patient while fomentation allows the herbal oil reaching deeper into the tissues around the neck.

Elakizhi: In this treatment, the patient is applied boluses containing fresh medicinal leaves in the affected areas. This induces sweating which helps in removing toxins from his body. This herbal therapy proves beneficial in pacifying the Vata Dosha and lessening musculoskeletal pains

Sarvangadhara: In this therapy, the patient is treated by dripping warm, medicated oil all over his body followed by a head-to-toe massage. It is an effective treatment for those who are suffering from different types of musculoskeletal issues. Post the massage, the patient experiences relaxation along with relief in aches, stress and fatigue.

Greeva Basti: It is extremely good for addressing chronic and acute neck conditions. A mixture of herbal oils, in a large quantity, is placed on the patient’s neck which brings him relaxation in pain and stiffness around the neck area. This therapy helps in the smooth movement of the neck, improves blood circulation around the neck area and also strengthens spine.

Navara Kizhi: In this type of treatment, a massage of warm herbal oil is done on the affected area of the patient. After this, the second phase of the Navara Kizhi therapy is conducted where a mixture is prepared using herbal decoctions and Navara rice boiled in cow milk which is then collected in a thin cloth to make it a bolus. The massage is done on the patient with the bolus that brings him respite from the pain. Moreover, the nerves and muscles of the patient get strengthened and his tissues also get softened.