Back pain is a health concern that people often face at some point in their life. Whether it’s due to poor posture or a careless sleeping position, there are various reasons for back pain and if proper timely care is not taken then it can become severe. Fortunately, back pain can be managed and eased, and even prevented at times with the right measures.
Ayurveda focuses on treating back pain from the root cause. Back pain treatment in Ayurveda is classified into two types based on the location of the pain:
Kati shoola: This type of back pain is located in the lower back region and is caused by an imbalance in the ‘Apana Vata’, which is a sub-Vata Dosha that controls the lower abdomen, pelvis, and lower back.
Griva shoola: This type of back pain is located in the neck and upper back region and is caused by an imbalance in the ‘Udana Vata’, which is a sub-Vata Dosha that controls the head, neck, and chest.
Causes of Back Pain
According to Ayurveda, back pain is a result of a vitiation in the ‘Vata Dosha’, which governs the movement and functioning of the body. When Vata Dosha is imbalanced, it can cause the joints, muscles, and nerves in the back to become stiff, dry, and inflamed, further leading to pain and discomfort.
The following are the main reasons of back pain:
1. Poor posture
Poor posture while standing, sitting, or sleeping can cause the improper alignment of the spine, resulting in back pain.
2. Sedentary lifestyle
Lack of physical activity or prolonged sitting schedules at the job can cause the muscles in the back to become weak and stiff, leading to back pain.
3. Improper diet
Eating unhealthy or processed foods that are difficult to digest can cause accumulate toxins in the body, leading to inflammation and pain in the back.
4. Emotional stress
Emotional stress and anxiety can cause muscle tension, leading to back pain.
5. Injuries
Injuries to the back, such as fractures, sprains, or herniated discs, heavy lifting weight lifting, or strenuous exercise can cause acute or chronic back pain.
Aging: As people age, the discs in the spine can degenerate, leading to back pain.
Ayurvedic Treatments for Back Pain
Ayurvedic Treatment for back pain holds a number of herbs and changes in diet and lifestyle. Apart from this, practicing yoga asanas proves beneficial in curing back pain.
Herbs for Back Pain Relief
A few of the herbs which are excellent for back pain relief are as follows:
1. Shunthi (Ginger):
Shunthi has several pain-relieving properties. It is a universal medicine that helps in Back Pain relief. It is good for the digestive system and treats, flatulence, and constipation which is one of the reasons for back pain.
One teaspoon of fresh juice or paste can be consumed with lukewarm water in the morning on an empty stomach.
2. Rasona (Garlic)
Rasona has various ingredients like the organosulfur compound which help relieve back pain. The plant has anti-inflammatory properties which help in improving bone pain and back pain. It is one of the marvelous back pain ayurvedic remedies. It boosts the immune system.
Two pods of garlic can be consumed in the morning on an empty stomach with lukewarm water for best results.
3. Nirgundi (Vitex negundo)
It has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties which help reduce pain and inflammation in the body.
Nirgundi can be used topically as an oil to apply on the affected area, or it can be taken internally in the form of tablets, with lukewarm water at night. It is believed to work by reducing the production of inflammatory chemicals in the body, thus relieving pain and swelling.
Yoga Asanas
Yoga asanas (poses) are an efficacious way to ameliorate back pain. Overall, practicing yoga asanas regularly can improve flexibility, strength, and posture, all of which contribute to a healthier and pain-free back.
Here are a few examples of yoga asanas and their benefits for back pain:
Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-facing dog):
This pose stretches the muscles of the spine, and calves, while also strengthening the arms and shoulders. It can help relieve tension and pain in the lower back.
Bhujangasana (Cobra pose):
This pose improves blood circulation and strengthens the muscles in the back, shoulders, and neck. It also stretches the chest and abdomen, which can help ease back pain caused by poor posture.
Trikonasana (Triangle pose):
This pose has the power to relieve back pain, neck pain, and shoulder pain as well as strengthens the legs, stretches the muscles of the hip joint, and open up the chest and shoulders. It can be particularly beneficial for people with sciatica or other nerve-related back pain.
Conclusion
Herbs and yoga asanas are a natural way to balance the Dosha in the body and give long-term results in back pain relief. Ayurvedic treatment for back pain is an effective way to get rid of unbearable pain.
The healing power of Ayurveda strives to rejuvenate and nourish the body. Additionally, it revitalizes the nervous system and spine. So, adopt Ayurveda to enhance the quality of life and live a healthy and happy life!
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