Sciatica is the sharp, shooting pain that runs from the lower back down one leg. At Elixir Ayurveda, our doctors combine classical Kerala treatments for the spine with rest, diet and posture advice, to ease the pain and help you move more freely.
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About sciatica
The sciatic nerve runs from the lower back down each leg. When it is pressed or irritated, most often by a bulging disc or narrowing in the lower spine, it causes pain, tingling or numbness along the leg. It often affects one side and gets worse with sitting, bending or coughing.
In Ayurveda, sciatica is called Gridhrasi. It's seen mainly as a disturbance of Vata, the principle of movement, which is why treatment focuses on warmth, oil, rest and steadiness.
See a doctor urgently if you have weakness in the leg, numbness around the groin, or trouble controlling your bladder or bowels.
How we treat it
Your doctor plans your treatment after examining you and looking at your scans. It usually includes:
- Kati Vasti: warm medicated oil held over the lower back in a ring of dough, to ease stiffness and pain
- Kizhi (herbal compress): warm bundles of herbs or medicated rice (Njavarakizhi) pressed along the back and leg
- Abhyanga and Pizhichil: warm oil therapies to relax the muscles around the spine
- Vasti: medicated enemas. In Ayurveda, the main treatment for Vata conditions
- Herbal medicines, a Vata-calming diet, rest, and gentle exercises before you go home
How long, and what it costs
| Stay | Suits | Price (one person) |
|---|---|---|
| 14 nights | Recent or moderate sciatica | from ₹95,200 with 20% off (regular ₹1,19,000) |
| 21 nights | Long-standing pain, or disc problems | from ₹1,42,800 with 20% off (regular ₹1,78,500) |
Treatments, doctor, room and meals are included. Airport transfers are included for stays of 14 nights or more. Two people sharing: ₹10,000 per night with the offer.
Your doctor
Dr. S. Vijayakumar, BAMS: 27 years of Ayurvedic practice, including 18 years in Europe. Meet Dr. Vijayakumar
Questions
Can Ayurveda help sciatica? Many patients find their pain eases and they move more freely after a course of treatment, rest and the right exercises. Results vary with the cause and how long you've had it. We'll give you an honest view after your consultation.
Do I need to bring my MRI? Yes, please bring any MRI or X-ray reports. They help the doctor plan safely.
Will I still need surgery? That depends on the cause. Ayurvedic care can be an option before surgery for many people, but if a specialist has advised urgent surgery, please follow their advice. We'll work alongside your own doctor.
Can I keep taking my painkillers? Keep taking your prescribed medicines. Tell our doctor what you take, and any change should be agreed with your own doctor.
How soon will I feel better? Many people feel some relief within the first week. Steadier improvement usually comes over the full stay and the weeks after, if you keep up the exercises and routine.
What should I do at home afterwards? You'll leave with a simple plan: posture, exercises, diet and any medicines to continue.