Published Paper Details:

Background: Gridhrasi (Sciatica) is a prevalent condition marked by pain, numbness, and functional limitation along the sciatic nerve, impacting daily activities. Ayurveda offers targeted therapies such as Agnikarma (therapeutic cauterization) and Siravyadhana (therapeutic venesection), often combined with oral formulations like Trayodashanga Guggulu. Objective: To evaluate and compare the clinical efficacy of Agnikarma with Tamra Shalaka versus Siravyadhana, both alongside Trayodashanga Guggulu, in the management of Gridhrasi. Methods: In this randomized comparative clinical trial, 48 patients diagnosed with Gridhrasi were equally allocated into two groups. Group A received Agnikarma with Tamra Shalaka plus Trayodashanga Guggulu, while Group B received Siravyadhana with Trayodashanga Guggulu. Treatment outcomes were assessed using subjective parameters (Ruk, Sthamba, Toda, Gaurava) and objective parameters (SLR) at baseline and post-treatment. Results: Both groups demonstrated statistically significant improvement in pain relief, functional mobility, and overall patient satisfaction. Group A exhibited slightly faster onset of relief and slight reduction in pain scores and disability indices compared to Group B, indicating a superior therapeutic effect of Agnikarma with Tamra Shalaka. No major adverse effects were reported in either group. Conclusion: Agnikarma with Tamra Shalaka, when combined with Trayodashanga Guggulu, is a safe, effective, and superior intervention for alleviating pain and improving function in patients with Gridhrasi. This study supports the targeted use of Agnikarma as a first-line procedural therapy in the Ayurvedic management of sciatica.