To achieve a balanced state of body, mind, and consciousness, Ayurveda prescribes purificatory therapy Panchakarma for the cleansing of body toxins. Kati vasti, a part of the pre-operative procedure prior to Panchakarma is a very effective treatment for lower backache.
The waist area of the body is called Kati. Holding warm ayurvedic oils on the affected areas is called Vasti. Kati Vasti involves retention of warm thick medicated oil over the lower back or other parts of the spine for a certain period.
The patient is asked to lie face down on the bed and is applied medicated oil locally around the lumbosacral region. Then, a reservoir made of black gram dough is built around the lumbosacral area. Ensuring leak-proof, a lukewarm medicinal oil around 200-300ml is slowly poured into it.
The temperature of the oil is maintained reheating and continuously adding more oil. The oil is kept on for 30-40 minutes.
Once this part of the treatment is over, the affected area may be gently massaged, followed by a steaming for 10-15 minutes for better absorption of the medicine. It is usually done in a course of 5 to 7 days as required according to Ayurveda practitioner.