COMPREHENSIVE AND CRITICAL UNDERSTANDING OF DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS OF GRIDHRASI

Gridhrasi, a Vatavyadhi presenting with radiating pain from the Sphik to the Pada, closely resembles Sciatica in contemporary understanding. Accurate diagnosis necessitates the exclusion of other similar conditions, both in Ayurveda and contemporary medicine, under the concept of Vyavachedaka Nidana (differential diagnosis). This article explores classical Ayurvedic conditions such as Khalli, Khanja, Pangu, Gudagata Vata, Urustambha, and others, which may clinically mimic Gridhrasi. Simultaneously, contemporary science highlights pathology such as lumbar disc herniation, spinal stenosis, infections, neoplasms, trauma, degenerative disc disease and visceral referred pain that must be considered. This integrative review aims to delineate these overlapping presentations and provide guidance for clinicians in effective diagnosis.