AYURVEDIC UNDERSTANDING OF KATIGRAHA: A REVIEW ARTICLE

In the present era, lower backache is most common problem of all age groups. About 80% of the industrial population and 60% of the general population experience low back pain at some point of their life time due to wrong postural habits and psychological factors. In Ayurveda, this ailment is compared to Katigraha, one of the Vataja Nanatmaja Vyadhi. Katigraha is the condition which is characterised by Stabhdhata(Stiffness) and Shoola(Pain) due to Vitiation of Vata in the Katipradesh. In this condition Shuddha vata or Samavata gets lodged at Katipradesh and produces symptoms. Katigraha which is correlated with Lumbar spondylosis, it is a degenerative condition that effects the disc, vertebral bodies and joints associated with lumbar spine. Modern medical treatments for low back pain weren't effective over the long term.