Lower Back Pain - How Can Ayurveda Be Of Help?

The root cause of lower back pain as per Ayurveda is an excessive amount of Vata Dosha in the body. This dosha comprises of air and ether and is cold and dry in nature. Hence, to relieve backache, patients are advised to stay warm, eat hot food and reduce their intake of spicy food. This is because spicy food can have a drying effect on the body and increase back pain along with causing other problems such as constipation. Avoid drinking cold water and drink only room temperature or warm water even in the summer.

According to Ayurveda, a person s mental state has a direct influence on their physical health. Thus, if you are feeling pessimistic or upset, it could increase your discomfort. This does not usually cause back pain but can aggravate an existing condition. Do not dwell on your back pain but try to remain positive and cheerful.

An oil massage can help relieve the pain caused by a sedentary lifestyle and bad posture. Though a massage with any oil can prove to be beneficial, some ayurvedic oils have special properties that provide faster relief. Ashwagandha oil has relaxing properties and nourishes the muscles and bones. Similarly, Karpooradi oil improves blood circulation and eases numbness while Neem oil mixed with garlic and sesame warms the underlying muscles and eases stiffness. While massaging the back, do not put too much pressure on the spine but massage the adjacent muscles in circular motions.

Padahastasana is an asana that allows the Vata dosha to flow through the body and keeps it from being accumulated in one place. It is also beneficial in cases of lower backache caused by constipation as it makes it easier for the body to pass stool. To practice this asana, begin by standing straight with your feet together. While inhaling, raise your arms upwards with both palms facing ahead. Next, exhale and bend your body forwards while keeping both knees straight so that your hands can touch your feet. Hold this pose for 15 seconds and straighten your body while inhaling. Do not practice this asana if you suffer from ulcers, heart disease or hypertension.