Effect of Classical Ayurvedic Treatment Protocol in the Management of Trikashoola w.s.r. to Non-Specific Low Back Pain: A Case Series

Abstract

Trikashoola, commonly correlated with low back pain, is described under Nanatmaja Vata Vyadhi in classical Ayurvedic texts. Low back pain is a major cause of disability worldwide and significantly affects functional ability and quality of life. The present case series evaluates the clinical effect of a classical Ayurvedic treatment protocol in five female patients aged 47–65 years presenting with chronic low back pain of 3 months to 2 years’ duration. Diagnosis was established based on classical clinical features and supported by radiological findings. Clinical assessment was performed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) for functional disability, and WHOQOL-BREF for quality of life assessment. The treatment protocol included Deepana, Pachana, Panchakarma procedures and Shamana therapies, such as Kostha Shodhana, Kala Basti, Kati Basti, Abhyanga and Nadi Svedana, along with internal medications including Rasna Saptaka Kvatha, Avipattikara Choorna, Dashamoola Kvatha and Yogaraja Guggulu. After 30 days of treatment, all patients demonstrated marked reduction in VAS and WOMAC scores, improvement in lumbar mobility and significant relief in tenderness without any adverse effects. The improvement was sustained during the three-week follow-up period with oral medications. These findings suggest that a classical Ayurvedic treatment protocol may provide safe and effective management in patients with Trikashoola.