REVISITING CLASSICAL INSIGHT OF AGNIKARMA IN GRIDHRASI

Agnikarma (therapeutic cauterization) is classified as a superior minimally invasive para-surgical procedure. It provides relief in certain diseases that are not cured by herbal medicine, surgical interventions, and alkaline cauterization. Moreover, the diseases treated by Agnikarma never recur. Different Dahana upakaranas are described based on the site, severity, and the heat retention/transmission capacity of the material. Agnikarma is clinically effective in musculoskeletal disorders like Gridhrasi (sciatica), Sandhigata Vata (osteoarthritis), Avabahuka (frozen shoulder), etc. When performed with proper assessment, in a controlled manner, with Samyak Dagdha Lakshana, and with proper post-procedure care, it provides instant relief with minimal complications, making it a valuable minimally invasive modality in Ayurveda. Changing lifestyle in the present era has created several disharmonies in the biological system of human beings. Busy professional and social life, improper and prolonged sitting posture, jerky movements during travelling, sports activities, etc., all these factors create undue pressure to the spinal cord and play an important role in producing lower backache and pain radiating down towards lower limb. Thus, Gridhrasi is now becoming a significant threat to the working population. This disease not only inflicts pain but also causes difficulty in walking, daily routine activities and cuts off the good quality life of patient. The study presents a case series showing successful management of Gridhrasi by Agnikarma using Mrittika Shalaka.