Degenerative or osteoarthritic changes in the spine are
known as spondylosis. This is
characterized by the presence of bone outgrowths known as bone spurs, and
degenerative changes in the intervertebral discs. Spondylosis can occur in any
part of the spine, but cervical and lumbar spondylosis tends to have more
symptoms. This condition is different from spondylitis which involves
inflammation, physical non-development (spondylolysis), and physical
dislocation either forward or backward (spondylolisthesis). Spondylosis and a
herniated disc can cause compression of the sciatic nerve causing symptoms of
sciatica.
Ageing, genetics, and trauma are risk factors for
spondylosis. Chronic pain is the commonest symptom of spondylosis; if a nerve
is affected, symptoms like numbness and tingling can also occur. Treatment
involves the use of medications, self-care, exercise and
physical therapy, adjunctive therapies (chiropractics and acupuncture),
and minimally invasive procedures such as injections, and surgery.
Ayurvedic herbal medicines have a special role to
play in the long term management and treatment of spondylosis. Since spondylosis
is said to be associated with age related degeneration, it is generally
believed that no particular medicines can influence the long term outlook of
this condition, since modern medicines only reduce swelling, inflammation and
pain. However, Ayurvedic herbal medicines can reverse the ageing process in the
spine to a significant degree.
When given in high doses for long durations,
Ayurvedic herbal medicines can reduce the damage in the spine, make the
vertebral bones strong and healthy, and reduce the swelling due to
osteoporosis. In addition, the medicines also help to make the tendons and
muscles attached to the spine very strong and healthy. This helps to reduce and
eliminate chronic pain, which is the hallmark of spondylosis. In addition,
pressure on sensitive nerves is also removed, thereby treating nerve related
symptoms like pain, numbness, and impending paralysis.
A judicious combination of oral Ayurvedic herbs,
local application of Ayurvedic medicated oils, hot fomentation, and regular
exercise, can help most people suffering from spondylosis recover completely
even from very chronic and severe affectations. That said, it is always
advisable to get examined, investigated, diagnosed, and treated with Ayurvedic
herbal medicines at the earliest possible in order to get the maximum possible
benefit from treatment.
