EFFECT OF RAKTAMOKSHANA KARMA IN THE MANAGEMENT OF GRIDHRASI

Abstract

Gridhrasi is a Nanatamaja Vata Vyadhi, the clinical features simulate with Sciatica. For its management various treatment modalities are employed with variable outcomes. Present clinical study was a prospective and unicentral work designed to assess the efficacy of Raktamokshana Karma in the management of Gridhrasi and to provide a cheap, safe and effective Ayurvedic modality of treatment to the patients of Gridhrasi. It was carried out on a single group with a sample size of 30 patients out of which 7 were dropouts. Ethical clearance from IEC was obtained. In this randomized clinical trial, patients with age ranged from 25-60 years of either sex were selected strictly following the inclusion and exclusion criteria set for the same. Total 90ml blood was withdrawn in three sittings at an interval of 10days (30ml in each sitting). Raktamokshana karma from the Great Saphenous vein of the affected side above the ankle was done by using sterile disposable syringe and needle. Following the standard set criteria for evaluation, the analysis revealed the results to be statistically highly significant on all the variables of assessment criteria, both subjective and objective. Aggregate percentage relief observed after the third sitting was 35.11%. It reveals that Raktamokshana karma has a role in the management of Gridhrasi. However, this therapy should be combined with other measures like oral medication, Kati basti and Matra Basti.