Slipped disc
A ruptured or bulging disc in the spine can press on the nerve.
Overview
What is sciatica?
Sciatica is pain along the sciatic nerve, from the lower back down the back of the leg, when the nerve is pressed or inflamed.
It often starts around age 30 and can get worse with age. It may affect one leg or both.
The Ayurvedic view
Ayurveda calls it gridhrasi: ama (toxins) from poor digestion blocks fine channels. Care aims to clear ama, improve digestion and nourish the nerves.
Causes
What commonly triggers it
Tight piriformis muscle
This hip muscle can tighten and squeeze the nearby sciatic nerve.
Poor posture
Slumping in a chair or sleeping curled up strains the lower back.
Back injury
A fall or strain to the lower back can trigger the pain.
Symptoms
Signs to notice
- Pain travelling from the lower back to the back of the leg
- Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
- Weakness in leg muscles
Do not wait, get urgent medical help if you have
- Loss of control over urine or stools
- Numbness around the groin, buttocks or inner thighs
- Weakness in both legs, or a foot that drags and is getting worse
- Severe back pain after a fall or injury, or with fever
Ayurvedic approach
How Dr. Varun approaches care
- 1
Consultation
Dr. Varun listens to your symptoms, history, food habits and routine, and looks at any reports or medicines you already take.
- 2
Assessment
Nadi pariksha (pulse) and Prakriti (body type) assessment help him understand your individual balance.
- 3
Your plan
Where suitable, a personal plan may combine diet and routine changes, classical Ayurvedic medicines and, for some people, Panchakarma.
- 4
Follow-up
Progress is reviewed and the plan adjusted, at the clinic or on WhatsApp.
Diet & lifestyle
Small changes that help
Best avoided
- Heavy meals that are slow to digest
- Exercising during severe pain
- Slumping in chairs
- Sleeping in a curved position
Helpful habits
- Leafy greens, wholesome carbohydrates, bananas and apples
- Sleep on your back, pillow under bent knees
- Light walking and gentle jogging when pain allows
- Hot and cold compresses, used alternately
Home remedies
From the family kitchen
Garlic-ajwain massage oil
Heat 2-4 tablespoons mustard oil with 2-3 crushed garlic cloves and 1 spoon pounded ajwain. Cool, strain and massage gently on the painful area.
Test the oil on a small patch of skin first, use it only lukewarm, and avoid broken or irritated skin.
Dr. Varun's care kit
SCIATIKAYA for sciatica
60 capsules + one oil, from Dr. Varun's own range. Sent by courier anywhere in India and worldwide.
From ₹4,999 (incl. packing & courier)
- Free video/audio consultation
- Free 1-month LivTOX liver support capsules
- Price includes packing and courier, worldwide
- Pay in advance by bank transfer or UPI QR (details sent on WhatsApp)
- Dr. Varun checks the kit suits you before it is sent
FAQ
Common questions
Do I need a scan for sciatica?
Not always. Severe or lasting pain, weakness or numbness may need an MRI.
Can I consult if I live far away?
Yes. Book a video or audio consultation with Dr. Varun on WhatsApp.
Not sure where to start?
Talk to Dr. Varun first. A video or audio consultation on WhatsApp works from anywhere, or visit the clinic in Phagwara or Jalandhar.
Consult Dr. Varun on WhatsAppRelated problems