Effect of Deepana Pachana and Shamanasnehapana with Karpasasthyadi Sevya Thaila in Reducing Neck Pain Associated with Cervical Spondylosis

Abstract

Cervical spondylosis is a degenerative condition of the cervical spine, primarily associated with pain and stiffness. In Ayurveda, cervical spondylosis can be clinically correlated with Apabahuka, Viswachi, Greevastambha, Manyastambha or Asthimajjagatha vata affecting the Manya pradesha. All these conditions come under Vatavyadhi. Therefore, Deepana pachana therapies are indicated, as they enhance Agni and help in the Ama pachana. The general line of management for Vatika disorders includes Snehana, Swedana and Shodhana. Among these, Snehana karma is especially useful in Dhathukshaya janya vatavyadhi. Amruthotharam kashayam, mentioned in Sahasrayoga and Shadharana choorna, described in the Vatavyadhi adhyaya of Sushruta Samhita, were taken in tablet form for better palatability of participants for Deepana pachana. Karpasasthyadi thaila, mentioned in the Thaila prakarana of Sahasrayoga, is indicated in Vatavyadhi particularly Apabahuka. Considering the Dosha kopa and the site of vitiation, Karpasasthyadi sevya taila was selected for Shamanasnehapana. Materials and Methods: Data were collected using clinical case proforma. Assessments were based on visual analogue scale, Oswestry disability index for neck pain. A total of 23 participants were selected through consecutive sampling. Deepana pachana was carried out for 5 days, followed by a one-day interval for assessment. Thereafter, Karpasasthyadi sevya thaila shamanasnehapana was given for 15 days. Results and Discussion: Changes in the neck pain were analysed before treatment, on the 6^th day and after the treatment on the 22^nd day. Depending on the distribution of variables, the data were analysed using Wilcoxon’s signed rank test and paired t test. Conclusion: The research findings indicate that the participants underwent Deepana pachana and Shamana snehapana with Karpasasthyadi sevya taila is effective in reducing neck pain associated with cervical spondylosis.