Slip Disc (IVDP) Treatment in Ayurveda

What is Slip Disc (IVDP)?

Slip disc, also known as Intervertebral Disc Prolapse (IVDP), occurs when the inner soft portion of the intervertebral disc protrudes through the outer fibrous layer.

The disc may develop cracks (annular fissure) or rupture completely, causing herniation of the soft nucleus. This can compress nearby spinal nerves or the spinal cord, leading to pain and neurological symptoms.

Common Causes of Disc Bulge

• Degenerative changes in the spine
• Repetitive bending, lifting, or twisting without rest
• Sedentary lifestyle causing weak muscle support
• Trauma due to heavy lifting or accidental fall
• Poor posture and prolonged sitting

Disc bulge most commonly affects the Cervical (neck) and Lumbo-sacral (lower back) regions of the spine.

Symptoms of Slip Disc

Disc bulges can compress nerves and cause pain that radiates to areas supplied by the affected nerve.

• Radiating pain to shoulders, arms, fingers, buttocks, thighs, calves, or feet
• Numbness, tingling, or pins-and-needles sensation
• Dizziness or weakness of affected body parts
• Severe cases: paralysis, urinary incontinence, or sexual dysfunction

Slip Disc in Ayurveda

In Ayurveda, disc bulge can be correlated with Kateegraha, Grdhrasi, Greevagraha and Apabahuka, which are Vatha-dominant disorders often associated with other dosha involvement.

Vitiated Vatha affects Asthi, Majja, Mamsa Dhathus and Upadhathus like Snayu and Sira, resulting in pain, nerve compression, and restricted movements.

Herbal House Ayurveda Treatments for Slip Disc

Treatment begins with reducing inflammation and correcting Agni (digestive fire) to remove Ama. Later stages focus on nourishing spinal tissues and strengthening supporting structures.

• Lepana (Application of herbal paste)
• Dhanyamladhara (Pouring of fermented decoction)
• Podikizhi (Warm herbal powder bundle)
• Kateevasthy (Medicated oil retention over lower back)
• Greevavasthy (Medicated oil retention over neck)
• Kashayavasthy (Medicated enema therapy)
• Mathravasthy (Oil enema)
• Thailadhara (Pouring of warm medicated oil)
• Nasya (Nasal medication)

Care During Treatment & Prognosis

Patients should take adequate rest and avoid heavy exercise, prolonged sun exposure, and heavy or cold foods during treatment.

Disc degeneration cannot be completely reversed. However, Ayurvedic treatments can slow disease progression, reduce inflammation, relieve nerve compression, and strengthen spinal tissues.

Mild cases may achieve complete relief. Moderate and severe cases require maintenance therapy and repeated treatment sessions. In advanced cases with paralysis or severe weakness, surgery may be required.