What is Kati Basti?
In Sanskrit, ‘Kati’ means the lower back, and ‘Basti’ means retaining something inside. The term basti here is a misnomer. Basti generally refers to the administration of medicine through the rectal route by using the specially designed basti instrument. The procedure of applying heat to the lumbar or sacral region by retaining warm medicated oil in the specially formed frame on this area is known as Kati Basti. Kati Basti is a soothing treatment where a large quantity of warm medicated oil is retained on your lower back to relieve pain, stiffness, and inflammation.
Ayurveda looks at each person on an individual basis according to their Prakriti (Nature) and takes a holistic approach by looking at all the bodily functions. There are many different causes for back pain varying from stress, poor posture, physical trauma, poor diet, and sedentary lifestyle to name a few, and for that reason, this approach is essential for a long-lasting result.
Indications –
Kati Basti is a very beneficial treatment specific for lower back pain, sciatica, herniated and ruptured discs, whiplash, ankylosing spondylitis, spinal problems spondylolisthesis, disc prolapse, sacroiliitis, lumbosacral Spondylosis.
Doshas & Dhatus involved in musculoskeletal disorders-
The main culprit is Vata which is aggravated and can create more dryness, stiffness, pain, and tightness in the affected areas, and, when it leads to aggravation in Pitta dosha, there will be inflammation in the area which causes more pain.
The muscles also become stiff and tight due to Vata obstruction. The Dhatus or tissues involved in musculoskeletal disorders are muscles (mamsa), fat (meda), nerves (majja) and bones (ashti).
When the properties of Vata (dryness, lack of movement, blood, and nerve flow ) and Kapha (stagnation) combine with Ama (toxins), it affects mamsa dhatu (muscles),majja dhatu (nerves), and meda dhatu (fat tissue). This results in pain, discomfort, stiffness, and rigidity in these areas. This can ultimately affect the bone tissue (ashti). leading to problems in the spine, joints, and muscles.
Treatment –
The method of preparation of Kati Basti for all these spine problems is described in this video. The link is given below, https://youtu.be/40PqoRu1vOM
Benefits –
Kati Basti not only repairs the damaged tissue but also rejuvenates the area.
Warm medicated vatashamak oil –
o Relieves pain, stiffness, and inflammation of the lower back.
o Promotes better circulation by removing stagnant blood, fluids, and toxins from the injured area.
o Improves muscle flexibility and joint mobility.
o Decrease stiffness & create elasticity in the muscles.
o Releases muscle spasm.
o A gentle and soothing approach to lower back pain that is too tender to benefit from massage.
o Warm oil also helps to dilate blood vessels, which reduces pain & swelling.
For more details, watch this video : https://youtu.be/40PqoRu1vOM?si=Ge99NfuKMgauLOez