GREEVASTAMBHA (CERVICAL SPONDYLOSIS): AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW OF STRUCTURAL CHANGES, CLINICAL FEATURES, AND AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVES

Background: Cervical spondylosis is one of the most common degenerative disorders affecting the cervical spine and is frequently associated with chronic neck pain, stiffness, and neurological manifestations. Objective: To review the structural, pathological, and clinical aspects of cervical spondylosis and correlate them with the Ayurvedic concept of Greevastambha. Materials and Methods: Classical Ayurvedic texts, including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya, and modern medical textbooks and peer-reviewed articles, were reviewed to understand the pathology, biomechanics, clinical manifestations, and management approaches related to cervical spondylosis. Results: The findings indicate that cervical spondylosis involves progressive degeneration of intervertebral discs and vertebral structures, leading to pain, stiffness, radiculopathy, and myelopathy. Ayurvedic concepts such as Greevastambha and Asthigata Vata closely resemble the disease pathology described in modern medicine. Conclusion: Cervical spondylosis is a common degenerative disorder of the cervical spine characterized by disc degeneration, osteophyte formation, and neck pain. Sedentary lifestyle, poor posture, and prolonged computer or mobile use contribute significantly to its prevalence. Clinical features include neck stiffness, headache, vertigo, paraesthesia, radiculopathy, and myelopathy. In Ayurveda, the condition resembles Greevastambha, Manyastambha, and Asthigata Vata, where aggravated Vata Dosha and degeneration of Asthi Dhatu are considered the main pathological factors. This review correlates modern and Ayurvedic perspectives to provide an integrative understanding for better prevention and management of cervical spondylosis.