Ayurvedic Treatment for Cervical Spondylosis: Causes, Symptoms, Remedies, and Therapies

Ayurvedic Treatment for Cervical Spondylosis: Cervical spondylosis is a condition where the bones and discs in your neck wear out as you get older. This can cause neck pain, stiffness, and sometimes tingling or numbness in your arms and hands. It’s a common part of aging and usually can be managed with Cervical Spondylosis Ayurvedic Treatment.

Cervical spondylosis, also known as cervical osteoarthritis or arthritis of the neck, is a common age-related condition affecting the joints and discs in the neck. It develops from the wear and tear of cartilage and bones present in the cervical spine, located in the neck.

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Ayurveda View About Cervical Spondylosis Ayurvedic Treatment

According to Ayurveda, “Cervical Spondylosis is a condition caused by an imbalance of Vata dosha. It is responsible for movement and circulation in the body. When Vata becomes aggravated, it can lead to the degeneration of the bones and joints in the neck, causing pain, stiffness, and discomfort.

The condition is often associated with “Sandhigata Vata,” where Vata affects the joints (Sandhi) and causes dryness, roughness, and reduced flexibility in the cervical spine. Ayurvedic treatment for Cervical Spondylosis focuses on pacifying Vata through diet, lifestyle changes, and therapies like herbal remedies, oil massages (Abhyanga), and detoxification (Panchakarma) to restore balance and ease symptoms.

Causes of Cervical Spondylosis

Before getting the ayurvedic treatment for cervical spondylosis, one should understand the causes of it. The bones and protective cartilage in your neck are prone to wear and tear that can lead to cervical spondylosis. Some of the causes are listed below:

• Over Usage: Due to our regular activities which involve repetitive movements or heavy lifting can put extra pressure on the spine, resulting in early wear and tear. This is the most common reason found in cervical spondylosis.
• Stiffness in Ligaments: The tough cords that connect spinal bones to each other can become even stiffer over time of period, due to this neck movement is affected and starts pain.
• Injury: It is also the most common reason for cervical spondylosis. Any kind of neck injury faster the process of aging.
• Dehydrated Spinal Disks: Disks are like cushions between the vertebrae of the spine. Most people’s spinal disks begin drying out and shrinking, which allows more bone-on-bone contact between the vertebrae.
• Disk Degeneration and Bone Spurs: These overgrowths of bone are the result of the body trying to grow extra bone to make the spine stronger. However, the extra bone can press on delicate areas of the spine, such as the spinal cord and nerves, resulting in pain.
• Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of movement and exercise that leads to Vata accumulation in the joints.
• Poor Posture: Sitting or sleeping in awkward positions that disturb the balance of Vata.

Ayurvedic Treatment for Cervical Spondylosis: Symptoms

The basic symptoms of Cervical Spondylosis are neck pain and shoulder pain with stiffness. Most people with spondylosis don’t have significant symptoms as well. Some of the symptoms are listed below: 

Complications of Cervical Spondylosis

Cervical spondylosis is a condition characterized by the degeneration of the cervical spine (the neck region of the spine) due to the natural aging process. While many people with cervical spondylosis may not experience any symptoms, others may develop complications or experience symptoms that can impact their daily life. Here are some potential complications and symptoms associated with cervical spondylosis:

1. Neck Pain: One of the most common symptoms of cervical spondylosis is neck pain. This pain can range from mild to severe and may be persistent or intermittent.
2. Radiating Pain: Cervical spondylosis can cause pain that radiates into the shoulders, arms, and even the hands. This is often referred to as cervical radiculopathy and can be accompanied by numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected areas.
3. Muscle Weakness: As the condition progresses, pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots can lead to muscle weakness in the arms and hands. This can affect a person’s ability to perform daily tasks.
4. Loss of Coordination: In severe cases, cervical spondylosis can lead to a loss of coordination and balance, which can increase the risk of falls and injuries.
5. Bowel or Bladder Dysfunction: Rarely, severe compression of the spinal cord in the cervical region can lead to bowel or bladder dysfunction. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention.
6. Cervical Myelopathy: Cervical myelopathy is a condition where the spinal cord becomes compressed and results in a variety of neurological symptoms, including weakness, coordination problems, and difficulty with fine motor skills.
7. Degenerative Disc Disease: Cervical spondylosis can also contribute to the development of degenerative disc disease, which can further exacerbate neck and arm pain.
8. Spinal Stenosis: Over time, the degeneration of the cervical spine can lead to the narrowing of the spinal canal, a condition known as spinal stenosis. This can put additional pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.
9. Bone Spurs: As the discs and vertebrae in the neck degenerate, the body may respond by forming bone spurs (osteophytes). These spurs can cause pain and restrict movement in the neck.

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Types of Cervical Spondylosis

There are two main types of cervical spondylosis:

1. Degenerative: Associated with aging and wear and tear of the neck structures.
2. Degenerative-inflammatory: A combination of degenerative changes and inflammation caused by conditions such as arthritis.

Cervical spondylosis is a type of spinal degeneration that affects the neck region and is typically caused by aging and wear and tear. There are several other types of cervical spondylosis are following:

1. Degenerative spondylosis: A result of the normal aging process and wear and tear of the cervical spine
2. Congenital spondylosis: A result of congenital spinal anomalies
3. Traumatic spondylosis: Caused by spinal injury or trauma
4. Inflammatory spondylosis: Caused by long-standing inflammation in the cervical spine
5. Radiculomyelopathy: A condition where there is compression of the nerve roots leading from the spinal cord.
6. Myelopathy: A condition where there is compression of the spinal cord itself.

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Ayurvedic Treatment for Cervical Spondylosis

Ayurvedic treatment for Cervical spondylosis comprises herbal medicines and therapies that help to relax the muscles,  as well as relieve inflammation to the nerves and surrounding tissues, healing the damage to the nerves and strengthening the nerves and muscles.

Greeva Stambha (A Vataja Disorder) simulates cervical spondylosis, which is a chronic degenerative condition of the cervical spine. In the management of cervical spondylosis Abhyangam, Swdana, Virechanam, Basti, Shalishastika pinda Swdena, Greeva Basti, and Greeva Pichu, can improve conditions. These therapies relieve pain and inflammation, strengthen the tissues, and prevent a recurrence.

1. Abhyanga (Therapeutic Oil Massage)

Abhyanga involves the application of warm herbal oils to the body, with a focus on the neck and upper back in the case of cervical spondylosis. The massage helps reduce pain, inflammation, and muscle tension. Specific oils, such as Mahanarayan oil or Bala oil, may be used for their anti-inflammatory properties.

• How does Abhyangam help to treat cervical Pain? 

Pacifies Vata by countering its dry and cold qualities with the warmth and unctuousness of the oils. Nourishes tissues (dhatus) and improves circulation, addressing Vata’s tendency to cause depletion

2. Swedana (Sweating or Heat Therapy)

Swedana ayurvedic treatment for cervical spondylosis involves exposing the body to steam or applying warm herbal poultices to the affected area (neck and upper back). It helps relax muscles, reduce pain, and improve circulation.

How Swedana helps: Primarily reduces Vata and Kapha by introducing warmth and moisture.Improves circulation and reduces stiffness, countering the cold and dry qualities of Vata.

3. Basti Treatment

Basti treatment is useful to treat cervical spondylosis, particularly when the condition is influenced by Vata dosha imbalance. Basti is effective in pacifying Vata dosha by delivering therapeutic substances directly to the colon and the nervous system. Basti can help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with cervical spondylosis by reducing inflammation and promoting healing.

4. Greeva Basti

Greeva Basti is a specific Ayurvedic treatment for Cervical spondylosis. It Only focuses on the neck region, making it particularly relevant for conditions like cervical spondylosis. Greeva Basti is beneficial for alleviating pain, stiffness, and discomfort associated with cervical spondylosis. Greeva Basti helps lubricate the neck joints, nourish the cervical vertebrae, and provide relief from dryness and degeneration. According to research done by  Dr. Nair in 2014 ” Effect of Greeva Basti in management of Spondylosis its fount that ” Greeva Basti is the best and most effective treatment for cervical spondylosis in reducing pain and improving mobility in cervical spondylosis patients.

5. Kizi Treatment

Kizhi (also spelled as “Pinda Sweda” or “Potali Sweda”) is an Ayurvedic therapy that involves the application of heat and herbal poultices to specific parts of the body. The heat and herbal properties of the poultices can help reduce pain, muscle tension, and stiffness in the neck region. It helps to improve circulation & aid in the delivery of nutrients to the affected cervical vertebrae and discs, potentially promoting healing. Also, reduces inflammation associated with cervical spondylosis & gives Muscle Relaxation.

6. Nasya (Nasal Administration of Medicines)

Nasya helps balance Prana Vata, which governs the head and neck region. Can help clear Kapha accumulation in the upper body.

7. Shirodhara Treatment

Shirodhara helps Deeply pacify Vata in the head and neck region. The rhythmic flow helps balance Pitta, reducing inflammation and tension.

Best Ayurvedic Medicine for Cervical Spondylosis​

The best Ayurvedic medicines for Cervical Spondylolysis are listed below:  

• Yogaraj Guggulu: Helps to Reduce inflammation in joints and tissues. Improves circulation in the affected area as well as detoxification, removing ama (toxins) from the body. Its anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce pain and stiffness in the neck area.
• Ashwagandha: It helps to strengthen muscles and nerves as well as reduce stress and anxiety, which can exacerbate muscle tension Its adaptogenic properties, improve the body’s resilience,
• Brahmi: It Improves cognitive function. It helps with the neurological impacts of cervical spondylosis, such as headaches and nerve-related issues.
• Sahacharadi Kashayam: Reduces inflammation and pain in joints and muscles.
• Dhanvantaram Kashayam: It addresses both the neurological and musculoskeletal aspects of cervical spondylosis, providing comprehensive relief.
• Dashamooladi Kashayam: It strongly pacifies Vata, it addresses one of the primary imbalances causing cervical spondylosis according to Ayurveda.
• Ksheerabala 101: It Strengthens nerves and muscles.Reduces pain and inflammation
• Kaishora Guggulu: Its anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties make it effective in managing the symptoms of cervical spondylosis and addressing its root causes.

Best Ayurvedic Oil for Cervical Spondylosis​

Here are some of the best Ayurvedic oils for cervical spondylosis:

1. Mahanarayan Oil

• Key Benefits: Reduces pain, stiffness, and inflammation. Strengthens muscles and joints.
• Usage: Warm the oil slightly and gently massage the affected area for 10-15 minutes.

2. Dhanvantaram Oil

• Key Benefits: Known for its rejuvenating properties, it helps reduce inflammation and nourishes the muscles and nerves.
• Usage: Ideal for mild to moderate pain; it is also used in Ayurvedic therapies like Abhyanga.

3. Kottamchukkadi Oil

• Key Benefits: Effective for musculoskeletal conditions, reducing pain, swelling, and stiffness.
• Usage: Massage regularly or use during steam therapy for better results.

4. Pinda Thailam

• Key Benefits: Primarily used for inflammatory conditions and localized heat. Useful for spondylosis with burning sensations.
• Usage: Massage the oil onto the affected area for soothing relief.

5. Balaswagandhadi Oil

• Key Benefits: Strengthens nerves and muscles, improves flexibility, and reduces pain.
• Usage: Apply daily or as directed by an Ayurvedic practitioner.

6. Karpooradi Oil

• Key Benefits: Contains camphor, which provides a cooling effect and relieves pain and stiffness.
• Usage: Best for quick relief from neck pain due to its fast absorption.

Tips for Best Results of Ayurvedic Oil for Cervical Spondylosis​:

• Warm the oil before application to enhance absorption.
• Massage the neck and shoulders gently to avoid further strain.
• Follow up with a hot water compress or steam therapy to relax the muscles.
• Combine oil application with Ayurvedic remedies, a healthy diet, and exercises like yoga.

Always consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner to ensure the oil and treatment suit your specific condition.

Home Tips to Help in Cervical Spondylosis Ayurvedic Treatment

• Avoid Dry, Fried, Cold, Junk, and Chilled Food.
• Exposure to Cool Breezes, Air Conditioning, and Fan,
• Proper Posture When Sitting, Walking, and Sleeping Change your seat or bed as per your comfort.
• Avoid Sleep during the day and sleep early at night.
• Exercising regularly, and turning the neck clockwise and counterclockwise is helpful. Bending and stretching your neck and nodding your head is also helpful.
• The use of garlic, ginger, turmeric, and sesame seeds in the daily diet helps in reducing Vata and  as well as reduce inflammation
• Applying warm sesame oil to the neck area and a hot bath also relieves pain.
• Bhujangasana(Cobra Pose), Matsyasana (Fish Pose), Marjariasana (Cat Pose), as well as Ardha Matsyendrasana (Sitting Half Spine Pose), Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose) are some of the recommended yoga poses equally important that relieve spondylosis of the cervical spine.
• Avoid lifting heavy weights and works that rather pressurize the neck.
• Last but not least avoid sitting in front of a computer for a long duration, and take breaks in between work for 10 minutes for every hour that will not only reduce pain but also keep you relaxed to work better.

Ayurvedic Treatment for Cervical Spondylosis: Summary

Ayurveda, the traditional system of medicine in India, offers various remedies and approaches to Ayurvedic treatment for cervical spondylosis. Several research has conducted for Ayurveda management of cervical Spondylosis and it found that Ayurveda is the best option to treat cervical spondylosis. It is important to note that these remedies should be used under the guidance of a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner. To understand the best Cervical Spondylosis Ayurvedic treatment consult an experienced Ayurvedic doctor at Adyant Ayurveda who can assess your condition and provide personalized recommendations based on your specific needs and Dosha’s (body constitution).

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