Sciatica Ayurveda: Types, Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

What is Sciatica?

Sciatica refers to pain radiating along the course of the sciatic nerve — from the lower back through the buttock and down the back of one or both legs. It is commonly caused by nerve compression (disc herniation, spinal stenosis, piriformis syndrome) and presents with shooting pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness in the affected leg.

Ayurvedic Strategy for Sciatica

At our clinic we follow a structured multi-modality plan:

• Local therapies to relieve nerve compression and muscle spasm (Kati Vasti, Kati Basti-style oil retention, Kati massage, Prishtha Vasti).
• Heat & potli therapies (Nadi Swedan, Churn/Patra Potli) to reduce stiffness and adhesions.
• Deep nourishment & nerve support (Abhyanga, Njavara Kizhi, Oil baths) to strengthen surrounding muscles and improve circulation.
• Detox & Vata pacification where appropriate (Basti course) to address chronic Vata imbalance.
• Rehabilitation — physiotherapy-guided strengthening, posture correction, ergonomics and yoga.

Therapies We Use for Sciatica (with reference photos)

The therapies listed below are selected for their direct benefit in relieving sciatica pain, releasing nerve compression, improving spinal flexibility and nourishing nerve/muscle tissues. Each includes an image for clinic reference.

Kati Vasti (Lower Back Oil Retention) Sciatica

What it is: Medicated warm oil retained over the lower back in a dough ring for a specified duration.

• Directly nourishes lumbar tissues, reduces muscle spasm and local inflammation.
• Creates sustained warmth and softens tight muscles that compress the sciatic nerve.
• Ideal for disc-related lower back pain and sciatica originating from the lumbar region.
• Protocol: daily or alternate-day sessions during intensive phase; oil selection individualized.

Herbal & Oral Support

Oral herbs and nutraceuticals complement in-clinic therapies to reduce nerve inflammation, protect nerves and support soft tissue healing. All internal prescriptions are individualized.

Herbs are prescribed after assessing medication interactions, comorbidities and diagnostics.

Rehabilitation — Exercises & Posture

Active rehabilitation is essential to free the nerve, rebuild muscle support and prevent recurrence.

• Neural gliding exercises: Gentle nerve mobilization to reduce adhesions and improve nerve mobility.
• Core & glute strengthening: Improve spinal support to reduce disc load (physio-guided).
• Hamstring flexibility: Gradual stretching to reduce traction on the sciatic nerve.
• Postural correction & ergonomics: Modify sitting posture, reduce prolonged sitting, and use correct lifting techniques.
• Yoga & pranayama: Tailored poses (avoid extremes) and breathing techniques to reduce Vata and improve circulation.

Sample Clinic Plans for Sciatica

Individual plans are adjusted for severity, imaging findings, neurologic deficits and response. If progressive weakness or bowel/bladder changes occur, urgent medical referral is arranged.

Quick Reference — Therapies & Roles

Safety, Diagnostics & Red Flags

• We perform or request baseline assessment (clinical neurologic exam, imaging like MRI when indicated) before intensive procedures.
• Red flags requiring urgent medical attention: progressive leg weakness, loss of bowel/bladder control, severe unremitting pain — these are referred immediately to neurosurgery/orthopedics.
• Panchakarma and Basti are done under medical supervision; certain procedures may be deferred if infection, uncontrolled systemic disease, or acute neurologic deficit is present.
• We coordinate with physiotherapists and medical specialists to ensure safe integrated care.