PAIN MANAGEMENT THROUGH AYURVEDA: A REVIEW ARTICLE

Abstract

Pain is an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with actual or potential tissue damage. Pain is the most common reason for physician consultation in most developed countries and a major symptom of many medical conditions. Pain is the most common symptom of an inflammatory process. Pain, when it is not effectively treated and relieved, has an unfavourable effect on all aspects of quality of life. Frequent use of painkillers and NSAIDS, are associated with a risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, other potential side effects and may hamper the body's defence mechanism.

In Ayurveda, pain can be co-related to Shoola. According to Sushruta, vitiated Vata Dosha is the root cause of all types of pain. Further, the vitiation of Vata may be Swatantra or Paratantra. Once Vata Dosha is treated efficiently, the pain subsides accordingly.

This paper aims to review various pain management practices from an Ayurvedic perspective. After reviewing the various classical texts, it can be concluded that internal preparations with medicinal properties i.e. Vedna Sthapan, Shoola Prashaman, Angamarda Prashaman; and external therapies like Snehan, Swedan, Basti, Nasya, Shirodhara, Agnikarma, Raktamokshana and Lepa play an effective role in the pain management. The selection of therapy depends on the cause of vitiation of Dosha, the site, extent of pain, duration and types of pain.

Keywords: -Pain, Pain management, Shool, Shoola Prashaman