What is Spondylosis?

Spondylosis is a degenerative condition of the spine that leads to stiffness, pain, and reduced mobility. It is caused by wear and tear of the spinal discs and bones due to aging, poor posture, or lifestyle factors. Spondylosis can affect different regions of the spine:

• • Cervical Spondylosis (Neck): Affects the cervical spine, causing neck pain, dizziness, and numbness in arms.
• • Lumbar Spondylosis (Lower Back): Affects the lower spine, leading to chronic lower back pain and difficulty walking.
• • Thoracic Spondylosis (Mid-Back): Affects the middle spine, but is less common.

Causes of Spondylosis

• Aging & Degeneration: Natural breakdown of spinal discs over time.
• Sedentary Lifestyle & Poor Posture: Sitting for long hours strains the spine.
• Repetitive Movements & Heavy Lifting: Stress on the spine leads to wear and tear.
• Obesity: Extra body weight increases spinal pressure.
• Previous Injury or Trauma: Accidents can accelerate degeneration.

Symptoms of Spondylosis

• ✅ Chronic back or neck pain that worsens with movement.
• ✅ Stiffness in the spine, especially in the morning.
• ✅ Radiating pain to shoulders, arms, or legs (depending on the affected area).
• ✅ Numbness, tingling, or weakness in hands or feet due to nerve compression.
• ✅ Difficulty in bending, walking, or maintaining balance.

Ayurvedic Approach to Spondylosis

Ayurveda classifies Spondylosis under Vata disorders, as it is caused by dryness, degeneration, and imbalance in the musculoskeletal system. Kerala Ayurveda offers a holistic and natural approach to treating Spondylosis by strengthening the spine, reducing inflammation, and restoring mobility.

Kerala Ayurvedic Treatment for Spondylosis

1. Panchakarma Therapies for Spine Rejuvenation

• • Abhyanga (Ayurvedic Oil Massage): Nourishes joints and relieves stiffness.
• • Kati Basti (Warm Oil Therapy): Targets lumbar spondylosis by reducing inflammation.
• • Greeva Basti (Neck Therapy): Relieves cervical spondylosis pain and improves neck mobility.
• • Elakizhi (Herbal Poultice Massage): Reduces muscle tension and nerve compression.
• • Nasyam (Nasal Therapy): Effective for cervical spondylosis-related headaches and dizziness.

2. Ayurvedic Herbal Medicines

• • Shallaki (Boswellia Serrata): Natural anti-inflammatory for joint pain relief.
• • Ashwagandha: Strengthens muscles and supports nerve health.
• • Guggulu: Helps in repairing damaged spinal tissues.
• • Dashmool: Relieves stiffness and strengthens bones.
• • Rasna & Bala: Improve flexibility and support spinal health.

3. Ayurvedic Diet & Lifestyle for Spondylosis

• ✅ Eat a Vata-pacifying diet – Include warm, nourishing foods like soups, ghee, and cooked vegetables.
• ✅ Avoid cold, dry, and processed foods that worsen degeneration.
• ✅ Stay hydrated to keep spinal discs healthy.
• ✅ Use an ergonomic chair and maintain correct posture while working.
• ✅ Apply warm oil (Mahanarayan Oil) on the affected area for pain relief.

4. Yoga & Exercise for Spinal Health

• • Gentle Yoga Asanas:
• ✔ Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose): Strengthens the spine.
• ✔ Marjariasana (Cat-Cow Pose): Improves flexibility.
• ✔ Tadasana (Mountain Pose): Corrects posture.
• • Pranayama (Breathing Exercises): Anulom Vilom and Bhramari calm the nervous system