Treatment of Cervical Spondylitis with Ayurveda

What is Cervical Pain?

Cervical pain, one of the leading causes of neck pain, occurs in the cervical spine – the neck portion of the backbone made up of seven vertebrae (C1–C7). These vertebrae support the head, enable movement, and protect the spinal cord, which carries vital signals between the brain and body.

In Ayurveda, Cervical Spondylitis is referred to as Griva Sandhigata Vata. It is marked by stiffness, pain, and restricted mobility in the neck and shoulder region.

Causes of Cervical Pain

Cervical pain can develop due to multiple factors, including:

• Poor posture (especially long hours on laptops or PCs)

• Muscle strain or stiffness of neck muscles

• Wrong sitting or sleeping positions

• Injury or slipped disc in the cervical vertebrae

• Age-related degeneration (loss of cushioning gel in spinal discs, causing vertebrae to rub against each other)

Symptoms of Cervical Spondylitis

Typical signs that indicate cervical problems include:

• Neck pain and stiffness

• Headache

• Vertigo (giddiness)

• Numbness or tingling in the hands and fingers

• Pain radiating to shoulders and arms

• Restricted neck movement

• Stiffness in the upper back

Ayurveda Approach to Cervical Pain

Ayurveda provides both symptomatic relief and long-term healing by addressing the root cause of cervical pain. Treatment involves a combination of Shaman Chikitsa (herbal medicines), Panchakarma therapies, and lifestyle corrections.

1. Shaman Chikitsa (Herbal Medicines)

Customized Ayurvedic medicines are prescribed to:

• Reduce inflammation and stiffness

• Nourish bones and joints

• Strengthen nerves and muscles

2. Panchakarma Therapies

Specialized Ayurvedic therapies to reduce pain, stiffness, and improve blood circulation:

• Snehan & Swedan – Oil massage and steam therapy to reduce stiffness and increase mobility.

• Griva Basti – Warm medicated oil retained in a dough ring over the neck to relieve pain and strengthen cervical vertebrae.

• Podikizhi & Elakizhi – Herbal poultice therapies that reduce muscular pain and inflammation.

• Lepam – Application of herbal paste over the painful region for localized relief.

3. Massage & Heat Application

• Gentle massage with Ayurvedic oils to release muscle tension.

• Use of hot steamed towels or heating pads to ease stiffness.

4. Nidaan Parivarjan (Lifestyle Modifications)

To maintain a pain-free state, patients are advised to:

• Avoid long hours on computers or using hard pillows.

• Practice good posture – keep shoulders relaxed and chin slightly tucked.

• Perform regular neck stretching and strengthening exercises.

• Apply hot fomentation at home regularly.

Why Choose Ayurveda for Cervical Spondylitis?

• Provides long-term relief without side effects

• Treats the root cause, not just the symptoms

• Avoids dependency on painkillers or steroids

• Helps restore mobility and strength naturally

✨ At Ayulife, we have successfully treated numerous cervical pain patients with Ayurveda and Panchakarma therapies — helping them avoid long-term medicines and regain a pain-free lifestyle