A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF HIJAMA (CUPPING THERAPY) AND ITS IMPACT ON LOW BACK PAIN: A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO HEALING

Abstract

Lower back pain (LBP) is characterized by discomfort or a tight sensation in the area between the rib cage and the lower gluteal folds; this pain may also radiate to the legs. LBP can be classified into acute or chronic types, which helps determine prognosis and treatment methods. It is considered acute if it lasts for a brief period, subacute for a more extended time, or chronic if the pain continues for an extended duration. Alongside pain, symptoms may also include radiating discomfort in the legs or feet, which can be experienced as numbness, tingling, or weakness. LBP has a considerable effect on a person's functionality and diminishes their quality of life, creating obstacles. It disrupts everyday activities and work productivity and is the leading cause for orthopaedic consultations. LBP can be categorized as either specific or non-specific. Common treatment approaches for this condition include physiotherapy, analgesics or anti-inflammatory drugs, complete bed rest during the acute phase, and other individualised treatments for LBP. Various therapies may yield complete relief; however, patients frequently require different manual treatments, such as steam therapy (Bukhoor), fomentation (takmid), pastes (dimad), liniments (Tila’), massages (Dalak), and cupping therapy (Hijama). The term "hijama" is derived from the Arabic word "hajm," which means to suck. Cupping therapy can generally be separated into Hijama-bi’l-shart and Hijama-bila-shart. This practice is among the oldest methods in the Unani medical tradition.