Ayurvedic Techniques for Meru Chikitsa 

The common Ayurvedic techniques used in Meru Chikitsa are:

• Marma therapy: It involves stimulating specific energy points (marma points) located along the spine and throughout the body. These points are similar to acupuncture points and are thought to be important junctions of life energy (prana).
• Abhyanga (Ayurvedic massage): Warm herbal oils are used by Ayurvedic doctors to give a full body massage to the patient.
• Kati Basti: This is a localized treatment where a dam made of dough is placed on the lower back of the patient and filled with warm medicated oil to reduce pain and inflammation and provide nourishment to the spine muscles.
• Pizhichil (oil bath therapy): It involves pouring warm medicated oil continuously over the body, with a focus on the spine, while simultaneously massaging the area.
• Sneha Swedana (herbal steam therapy): After oil application, herbal steam therapy may be used to open up the channels, allowing the oils and herbs to penetrate deeper into the tissues.
• Nasya (nasal administration of herbal oils): It involves administering medicated oils through the nasal passages. This technique is closely linked to the upper part of the spine and the nervous system.
• Shirodhara: It involves the continuous pouring of warm herbal oil on the patient’s forehead.
• Herbal Poultices (pinda sweda): Warm herbal poultices or boluses, made with medicated herbs, are applied along the spine by Ayurvedic specialists. These poultices are often heated and gently pounded or rubbed along the affected areas.
• Vasti (medicated enema therapy): It involves the administration of herbal oils or decoctions into the rectum as a part of Ayurvedic Panchakarma therapy.
• Pranayama (breathing techniques): Pranayama techniques like Nadi Shodhana (alternate nostril breathing), Ujjayi, and Bhramari may be used in Meru Chikitsa.
• Herbal medications and supplements: Ayurvedic herbs like Ashwagandha, Guggulu, Shallaki (Boswellia), and Turmeric may be recommended to support joint and spinal health.
• Diet and lifestyle recommendations: Proper nutrition, hydration, maintaining a good posture, and other lifestyle changes may be recommended to maintain healthy muscles, bones, and overall spinal alignment.