Effect of Habb-e-Gule-Aak (Unani pharmacopeial compound formulation) and Riyazat in the management of Non-specific Low back pain (Waja’ uz-Zahr): A Case series

Background: Low back pain has been a significant public health issue since long time, resulting in loss of functional productivity and medical costs. Nonspecific low back pain (NSLBP) or pain for which there is no known cause, affects about 85% of sufferers. Although there are conservative treatments accessible in the conventional medical system, like NSAIDs, which produces certain side effects. Unani system of medicine is the ancient system of medicine which deals with prophylactic and therapeutic management of many illnesses with no or least adverse effects. Objectives: To evaluate the effect of Unani compound pharmacopeial drug i.e., Habb-e-Gule-Aak (HGA) and exercises of lumbo-pelvic muscles (strengthening and stretching) in the management of NSLBP. Materials and Methods: Five patients with a primary report of chronic NSLBP (>6 months) without radiculopathy were treated with 2 pills of HGA twice daily for 30 days. The effectiveness of therapy was assessed on baseline, 15th day and 30th day using a numeric rating scale (NRS) to measure pain reduction and Oswestry disability index (ODI) to assess the decrease in lower back disability in NSLBP. Results: HGA and exercises of lumbo-pelvic muscles (strengthening and stretching) significantly reduced pain and disability in NSLBP. Conclusion: This case series is preliminary research of the use of multiple modalities in the management of NSLBP. It is envisaged that additional experimental research will be done to demonstrate the efficacy of this combination in treating people with NSLBP. Keywords: Habb-e-Gule-Aak, Ilaj Bit Tadbir, Lower back Exercise, Non-Specific Low back pain, Unani medicine