A Comprehensive Review of Sciatica (gridhrasi) in Ayurveda: Insights From the Brihatrayi Samhitas
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Sciatica, characterized by radiating pain along the sciatic nerve pathway, is a common neuro-musculoskeletal disorder causing significant morbidity. In contemporary medicine, its management often focuses on symptomatic relief, posing challenges of recurrence and side effects. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, classically describes a condition termed Gridhrasi, which bears a striking resemblance to sciatica in its clinical presentation. This review article aims to systematically compile, analyze, and synthesize the classical understanding of Gridhrasi from the three foundational texts of Ayurveda, the Brihatrayi – the Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya/Sangraha of Vagbhata. The article elucidates the etiopathogenesis (Nidana, Samprapti), cardinal signs and symptoms (Rupa), diagnostic principles, and Sciatica, characterized by radiating pain along the sciatic nerve pathway, is a common neuro-musculoskeletal disorder causing significant morbidity. In contemporary medicine, its management often focuses on symptomatic relief, posing challenges of recurrence and side effects. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, classically describes a condition termed Gridhrasi, which bears a striking resemblance to sciatica in its clinical presentation. This review article aims to systematically compile, analyze, and synthesize the classical understanding of Gridhrasi from the three foundational texts of Ayurveda, the Brihatrayi – the Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya/Sangraha of Vagbhata. The article elucidates the etiopathogenesis (Nidana, Samprapti), cardinal signs and symptoms (Rupa), diagnostic principles, and
Language: English
Subfield: Complementary and alternative medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7126226170
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