Ayurvedic Massage

According to the latest studies, back pain is the most common pain disorder faced by people across the globe. Around 70% of people suffer from back pains or pain related to their spine ailments. People with back pain feel like someone is punching them in the area.

Back pain can get severe if not taken care of, which is why it is essential to figure out things that you can do on your own or take care of. Back pain usually happens when the flexibility of the spine is compromised. It can cause infections, injuries, and various other things. Let's talk about the causes of back pain:

Did You Know

  1. Abhyanga helps in massaging the back with medicated oil that helps in reducing the pain.
  2. Another best treatment for back pain is Kati Basti, which is very effective for lower back pain and other disorders.
  3. Nadi Sweden also helps improve the blood supply in various areas with stiffness or any pain.
  4. It helps clean out the toxins and excess doshas that are in the body and relieves back pain.
  5. Agni Karma is an effective ayurvedic treatment for back pain that helps in reducing pain and improves blood flow.

    Causes of back pain

    back pain


    Usually, back pain starts with spine-related problems, which can become stiff in affected areas and cause issues, but there are also some underlying issues: 

    • Muscle or ligament damage 
    • Slipped disc 
    • Arthritis 
    • Scoliosis
    • Trauma or fracture 
    • Spinal cord infections 
    • Viral infections 
    • Excessive strain 
    • Heavy lifting 
    • Injuries 
    • Spinal cord tumors 
    • Overweight 
    • Anxiety 
    • Smoking 
    • Hereditary 
    • Stressful job 

    List of ayurvedic treatment for back pain

    Ayurvedic treatment focuses on many things like herbal remedies, diet, and lifestyle changes. You must make these changes to feel better and help yourself with back pain. When it comes to lifestyle changes you have to maintain certain postures or change the old postures because that affects the spine a lot.

    It would help if you also started focusing on herbal remedies because they help in reducing the inflammation that is there in soft tissues.

    Below are various treatments apart of Ayurvedic back pain medicines:

    Abhyanga

    Abhyanga

     

    Abhyanga helps in massaging the back with medicated oil that helps in reducing the pain. Various ayurvedic pain relievers like mahanaryana taila, karpastayadi taila, kottamchukadi taila, dhanwantaram taila, and much more.

    These oils are used to give soft massages on the back to reduce any stiffness, back pain, and joint pain. With the help of full-body massages, which are followed by a steam bath, it can start giving relief in 3 to 7 days. 

    Kati Basti

    Another best treatment for back pain is Kati Basti which is very effective for lower back pain and disorders. It is a treatment in which warm oil is retained at the back for 20 to 40 minutes and in a specific frame in order to make it more effective.

    Warm oil provides the perfect lubrication and helps improve circulation, which relieves the pain and makes it feel better. It is a herbal ingredient that has therapeutic effects for a 7 to 14 days period. 

    Navarakizhi

    Navarakizhi is a special pain-relieving treatment that uses Shali rice boiled in milk and various herbs to form shashtika shali pinda or navarakizhi. It is a kind of massage that is very nourishing. The massage is also followed by steam, which relieves the pain and helps in improving the posture. 

    The therapy helps allow the movements to be more free and relieves any pressure, swelling, or stiffness. It is also helpful for joint disorders. Overall the therapy is one of the best ayurvedic treatments for back pain. 

    Nadi Sweden

    It is a steaming therapy that is used for all the pain related to joints and muscles. It helps in opening up the sweat pores and gives relief to the joints. Nadi Sweden also helps improve the blood supply in various areas with stiffness or any pain.

    Choorna/ Patra Pinda Sweda 

    Patra Pinda Sweda

    Choorna is a kind of ayurvedic treatment with potali steam, which helps in relieving the pain and gives an effective treatment for the pain. There are herbal powders and leaves which are tied in the potli and that are massaged against the painful areas of the back. The heat and herbs help in generating heat in the back and further reduce the pain that is there.

    It is one of the best ayurvedic treatments for back pain and is very beneficial for injuries sustained in sports, osteoarthritis, ligament tears, muscle pain, and much more.

    Udwartana

    It is an ayurvedic powder massage performed using herbs and other combinations of herbs. It helps in balancing the doshas in the body. The powder is first warmed, and then a deep tissue massage is performed by giving strokes upwards on the affected areas on the back. 

    The entire process lasts for 60 minutes, after which the individual is suggested to take rest for 30 minutes and then take a warm water shower. The massage helps improve the joints' mobility, strengthens the muscles, improves blood circulation, and refreshes the body. 

    Swedana

    It is a medication that is done by using medicated oils and ends with steam. It helps in flushing out toxins and promotes the flow of ama from the tissues to the gastrointestinal tract. Then it is further eliminated from the tract.

    The massage helps balance the Vata and Kapha, which help manage back pain, and it is usually used for Vata diseases. There are different ways of performing the therapy, like either placing a hot cloth on the affected body part or using herbs and tying them in a cloth and massaging it over the back. 

    Basti Karma

    Basti Karma is an ayurvedic form of enema which is prepared fresh before massaging it on the back. It is made with various herbs and then used in the form of decoction, ghee, or oil. It is a treatment that is used for various Vata diseases, and it balances out the vitiated Vata. It helps in cleaning out the toxins and excess doshas that are there in the body and gives relief from back pain. You can use it for 8 to 30 days for effective results. 

    Virechana Karma

    In Virechana Karma therapy, there is a combination of various herbs that helps eliminate the toxins from the body and reduces the pain. It is considered one of the best back pain treatments because it helps balance the doshas and eliminate the excess phlegm there. It is recommended to not use this therapy in case of any other disorders or Vata dosha. 

    Agni karma

    Agni Karma is an effective ayurvedic treatment for back pain that helps in reducing pain and improves blood flow. It is done with a unique instrument and in the most painful areas of the joint. The heated instrument is applied directly on the parts that are under pain, and it helps in relieving the pain. 

    Ayurvedic therapies without massages and for acute pain 

    There are times when you feel acute pain in the back, and at such times, you do not need to do any intense massage. You can do simple therapies which help in relieving acute pain.

    Kati Pichu

    It is a process where cotton is folded and soaked in warm medicated oil for the massage. For effective results, you need to keep the soaked cotton on the back for a specific time. It will help relieve the pain, and the medicated oil will work wonders to solve any joint disorder or pain. 

    Lepana 

    It is a process in which a thick pack of paste is applied all over the painful areas and then it is covered with leaves and a clean cloth. The heat and herbs that are applied together help in reducing the pain and give relaxation to the muscles. It also helps in reducing inflammation and swelling, if any. 

    Kaya Seka or Pariseka

    Pariseka is when you pour warm medicated liquids on the body while lying down in a prone position. It helps in stimulating sensory and motor receptors in the body, which further helps in relieving acute back pain or paralysis if there are any. It also helps in affecting brain chemistry and further provides a sense of well-being.

    Yoga

    Yoga is also one of the most effective ways to relieve back pain. There are various kinds of yoga positions that can help in improving digestive strength, circulation, body pain, nervous system function, and back pain. There are asanas like:

    • Salabhasana 
    • Nauka asana 
    • Bhujangasana 
    • Other yoga asanas which are related to the issue
    • Low-impact exercises like swimming, walking, and overall fitness training without putting strain on the lower back

    Home remedies for back pain

    Ginger root

    It is a useful herb with anti-inflammatory properties for back pain. The ginger paste can be applied directly to the back, or it can be used as a helpful addition to other herbal teas. You can even choose to drink it heated with honey in water.

    Turmeric milk (Haldi Doodh)

    In Ayurveda, turmeric is well known for its anti-inflammatory qualities. To ease pain and reduce inflammation, add a teaspoon of turmeric powder to a glass of warm milk and drink it before going to bed.

    Mustard oil

    Contains inherent healing abilities. The blood flow is naturally driven towards the skin's surface when mustard oil is applied to the affected area (of the affected portion). Mustard oil should only be used externally and washed off thereafter due to its poisonous nature. It is very helpful for those who have persistent back pain.

    Ginger tea

    Ginger can help with pain relief and contains anti-inflammatory qualities. Boil fresh ginger slices in water to make ginger tea. Drink it twice or three times a day, adding honey or lemon to taste.

    Lavender oil

    One can get instant pain relief by applying two to three drops of lavender oil straight to the affected area and massaging it. It is also useful in lowering swelling and relieving spasms in the muscles. Use this massage treatment twice a day at home.

    Ashwagandha

    The amazing plant ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a common ingredient in Ayurvedic medical treatments. It has the ability to heal the vitiated vata dosha and is utilized to treat anxiety, leucoderma, depression, sleeplessness, immunity, and muscle strength.

    Garlic

    The anti-inflammatory properties of eating two to three cloves of garlic every morning can help lessen back pain. Consume the cloves without food. On the area that hurts, you can also apply garlic oil.

    Other lifestyle changes to get relief from back pain

    Maintain a healthy weight

    A sedentary lifestyle and insufficient exercise are the main causes of weight increase in people these days. As a result, losing weight is essential for reducing back pain since it relieves pressure on the spine. It is especially beneficial for those who are obese or overweight. Losing extra weight reduces the strain on the spine. Keeping a healthy weight is helpful, especially as one ages, as it can reduce back pain and avoid several ailments.

    Improve your posture

    Maintaining right posture helps in the alignment, balance, and support of bodily parts. An incorrect posture puts pressure on joints, discs, and nerves. Practicing yoga can greatly assist with keeping proper posture.

    It can be challenging to maintain posture when carrying large objects off the ground, so stooping down and merely bending your knees while maintaining a straight back will help with back pain. It works well in a supportive and appropriate posture to keep the tissues from becoming sore.

    Lifestyle modifications

    Natural treatments for back pain mostly involve quitting smoking and alcohol and adopting a healthy vegetarian or sattvic diet in order to avoid drug addiction. Sedentary lifestyles are prevalent these days, and as a result, issues including weak muscles, bad posture, poor digestion, lower back discomfort, and disc problems are becoming more prevalent.

    Yoga practice will yield results. In addition, dietary modifications are crucial. Fruits should be eaten with salad and leafy green vegetables. Avoid having large meals late at night. When making food, use cow's ghee, mustard oil, or til oil.

    Conclusion

    Ayurvedic treatments for back pain are the best way to get rid of unbearable pain or joint disorders. You can opt for any therapy that you feel is the most suitable for the kind of pain that you have. It will help in long-term results and balance the dosha in the body.

    FAQs

    1. Which is the best ayurvedic medicine for back pain?

    Back pain can be effectively treated with herbs such as Guggul, Nirgundi, Shallaki, and Ginger, according to Ayurveda.

    2. What is the homemade drink for back pain?

    One potential home cure for back discomfort is turmeric milk. Mix thoroughly one teaspoon of turmeric powder into half a cup of hot or cold milk. If you like it sweeter, add a little honey. If you have a backache at night, try drinking turmeric milk.

    3. Which fruit is best for back pain?

    Berries are a great source of flavonoids and antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation brought on by back discomfort. Phytonutrients found in them aid in the body's defence against pain. Therefore, to help with back discomfort, think about including berries in your diet.

    4. How to sleep when you have lower back pain?

    Sleeping positions that relieve lower back discomfort can be quite beneficial. Sleeping on your stomach should be avoided as much as possible; instead, you should ideally sleep on your side or back. To help you achieve the right posture, use cushions and rolled towels as supportive tools.

    5. What is the fastest way to recover from back pain?

    Don't take a day or two off from work. It's critical to stand up and gradually resume your movement. It has been shown that one of the best strategies to rapidly treat back pain is through exercise. Try doing yoga, walking, or swimming.

    References

    1. Abhyanga helps in massaging the back with medicated oil that helps in reducing the pain. (https://www.worldwidejournals.com)
    2. Another best treatment for back pain is Kati Basti, which is very effective for lower back pain and other disorders. (https://www.ijrap.net)
    3. Nadi Sweden also helps improve the blood supply in various areas with stiffness or any pain. (https://www.researchgate.net)
    4. It helps clean out the toxins and excess doshas that are in the body and relieves back pain. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
    5. Agni Karma is an effective ayurvedic treatment for back pain that helps in reducing pain and improves blood flow. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
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    Zandu Ayurvedic Team

    Zandu Ayurvedic Team has a panel of over 10 BAMS (Ayurvedacharya), boasting a collective experience of over 50 years. With a deep-rooted understanding of Ayurveda, they are committed to sharing their expertise & knowledge through our blogs.
    We use all kinds of Ayurvedic references in our content. Please use the contact form for any editorial queries.

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