A randomized clinical study on the effect of <em>Bukhoor</em> with <em>Panchangusht</em> leaves (medicated steam), in the management of prolapsed intervertebral disc

Abstract

PIVD (Prolapsed intervertebral disc) commonly known as slipped disc, is a postural and life style disorder caused due to excess of sitting, driving, bending or traumatic factors like a sudden fall, push, pull or jerk. It is common in athletes and other sports persons. An open labeled, randomized, controlled clinical trial was carried out at Majeedia Unani hospital, New Delhi, where the patients were randomized into two groups: control group (given physiotherapy) and test group. Intervention used was <em>Bukhoor</em> (medicated steam) with <em>Panchangusht</em> leaves (<em>Vitex negundo</em> L.). The assessment of clinical efficacy, i.e., improvement in pain and lifestyle of patients suffering from PIVD was done by the “Oswestry low back pain disability scale” and SF-12 (Quality of life questionnaire). A highly significant effect on “Oswestry low back pain disability scale” was observed on 7^th, 13^th visit of the treatment when compared with the base line along with significant relief in perceived pain in the test group. The X-Rays showed that all the muscle spasm and the straightening of the vertebrae completely improved at the end of the therapy in all the patients in the test group. A significantly high score was observed for the Physical Component Summary (PCS) and the Mental Component Summary (MCS) using the SF 12 score in both the groups with a trend towards the better SF 12 Score in the test group in comparison to control group. Thus, <em>Bukhoor </em> can be a better alternative treatment and relief for PIVD.