Marma Chikitsa to Manage Griva Sandhigata Vata W.S.R. to Cervical Spondylolisthesis – A Case Study

Abstract

Introduction: Ayurveda is a life science that emphasizes treating the mind, body, and soul to achieve complete health. Detailed descriptions about Marma and Marma Chikitsa is found in the Sushruta Samhita and Siddha texts respectively. Manipulating or stimulating Marmas to manage various diseases is known as Marma Chikitsa or therapy. Cervical spondylolisthesis is a rare and uncommon condition in patients with neck pain. Typically, this abnormality presents with cervical pain without any neurological deficit. It usually involves a defect in the pedicle of the sixth cervical vertebra. The prevalence of anterior spondylolisthesis is 6.0% in men and 6.3% in women, and that of posterior spondylolisthesis is 13.2% and 8.9%, respectively. Aims and Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness of Marma Chikitsa in the management of Griva Sandhigata Vata. Materials and Methods: A single case study of a 54-year-old married man who was diagnosed with traumatic spine injury (C5 anterolisthesis over C6 with cervical cord compression) visited Shalya Tantra Marma Chikitsa outpatient department with the chief complaint of pain over the left shoulder joint and neck along with weakness of the left upper limb. The treatment approach involved employing Marma Chikitsa, primarily targeting the upper extremities. Results: Following the treatment regimen, the patient experienced a substantial recovery, achieving a 90% restoration of movement range, albeit with minor discomfort at the limits of motion. Conclusion: Marma Chikitsa holds significant importance in managing Griva Sandhigata Vata (Cervical spondylolisthesis)