Effect of Agnikarma (therapeutic heat burns) and Raktamokshana (therapeutic bloodletting) in the management of Kati Sandhigata Vata (lumbar spondylosis)

BACKGROUND: Agnikarma (therapeutic heat burns) and Raktamokshana (therapeutic bloodletting) are the treatment modalities mentioned in Ayurveda texts to combat the clinical condition of Sandhigata Vata (osteoarthritis) which occurs due to provoked Vata Dosha and/or Vyana Vayu overlapped with Kapha. Lumbar spondylosis is a degenerative disorder presenting with lower back pain, stiffness, numbness, difficulty in movement etc., with evidence of osteophytes and reduced disc height in plain film radiograph. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to evaluate the role of Agnikarma and Raktamokshana in the management of Kati Sandhigata Vata (lumbar spondylosis). MATERIALS AND METHODS: After obtaining CTRI registration, total 32 cases of lumbar spondylosis were registered and allocated into two groups by simple random sampling method. 16 patients were treated with Agnikarma with Panchadhatu Shalaka (group A) and 16 patients were treated with Raktamokshana by modified Shringa Yantra (group B). RESULTS: The result was assessed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test and paired t-test. Significant results were observed in relieving lower back pain, stiffness, numbness and painful movements in both the groups. CONCLUSION: Agnikarma was found more effective in relieving pain and numbness in lower back and Raktamokshana was found better in relieving pain and stiffness of lower back.