By Dr. Pazhaniyappan BSMS,
Published April 09, 2026
Introduction
Cervical spondylosis, a degenerative disorder affecting the cervical spine, is one of the most common causes of chronic neck pain and disability in adults. With increasing sedentary lifestyles, prolonged screen exposure, and postural strain, its prevalence is rising even among younger populations.
In Siddha medicine, this condition closely correlates with Ceganavatham, where pain, stiffness, and neurological discomfort are dominant features. Among the non-invasive Siddha approaches, Varmam therapy stands out as a unique neuromuscular manipulation technique aimed at restoring the body’s energy balance and relieving pain.
This article presents a structured, evidence-based case narrative of a 44-year-old female patient, demonstrating the clinical effectiveness of Varmam therapy.
Case Presentation: A Life Interrupted by Pain
A 44-year-old female patient presented to Rathna Siddha Research Hospital with persistent complaints of:
- Severe neck pain radiating to the right shoulder and arm
- Stiffness worsening in the early morning and after prolonged sitting
- Tingling sensation in the fingers
- Difficulty performing daily activities such as combing hair and lifting objects
- Disturbed sleep due to continuous discomfort
She reported that the pain had persisted for over 8 months, gradually worsening despite prior use of analgesics and physiotherapy.
Clinical Findings and Diagnosis
On examination:
- Marked tenderness in the cervical and right shoulder region
- Restricted lateral rotation and flexion of the neck
- Muscle spasm and localized warmth
- Reduced functional mobility of the upper limb
Pain severity was assessed using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), with an initial score of 8/10 (severe pain).
The Neck Disability Index (NDI) indicated moderate-to-severe disability, affecting her quality of life and daily functioning.
Based on Siddha diagnostic principles, the condition was identified as Ceganavatham, correlating with cervical spondylosis.
Understanding the Condition: Causes and Impact
Cervical spondylosis develops due to:
- Age-related degeneration of intervertebral discs
- Postural strain (especially prolonged sitting and screen use)
- Occupational stress
- Reduced muscular support and flexibility
Common symptoms include:
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Radiating pain to shoulders and arms
- Numbness or tingling
- Reduced range of motion
If untreated, it can significantly impair daily life and mental well-being.
Treatment Approach: Siddha Varmam Therapy
The patient underwent Varmam therapy at Rathna Siddha Research Hospital following a structured protocol:
- 12 sessions over 12 days ( every day)
- Specific Varmam points stimulated, including:
- Mudichu Varmam (C7 region)
- Kakkattai Varmam (supraclavicular region)
- Kaichulikki & Chippi Varmam (occipital region)
- Savvu & Kavuli Varmam (upper limb energy points)
Each point was stimulated with controlled pressure to regulate Uyir Sakthi (life energy flow).
Mechanism of Action: Bridging Tradition and Science
Though rooted in Siddha philosophy, Varmam therapy aligns with modern scientific concepts:
- Gate Control Theory (Melzack & Wall): Pressure stimulation blocks pain signals at the spinal level
- Neuro-hormonal response: Activation of hypothalamic-pituitary axis promotes relaxation
- Improved circulation: Enhances tissue healing and reduces inflammation
This integrative understanding explains the reduction in pain and improved mobility observed clinically.
Results: A Gradual Return to Normal Life
Over the course of treatment:
- NPRS score reduced from 8 → 4 → 1
- NDI score showed a shift from moderate disability to minimal disability
- Significant improvement in neck mobility
- Complete relief from radiating pain
- Restoration of daily functional activities
By the end of 12 sessions:
- The patient reported almost complete pain relief
- Sleep quality improved
- Emotional stress reduced
A follow-up after 2 months showed no recurrence of symptoms.
Patient Experience
The patient expressed high satisfaction, stating that:
- The therapy was non-invasive and comfortable
- Relief was noticeable within the first few sessions
- She regained confidence in performing routine activities
Discussion
Conventional management of cervical spondylosis often includes:
- NSAIDs (pain relief but with long-term side effects)
- Physiotherapy
- Lifestyle modification
However, cost, recurrence, and incomplete relief often lead patients to seek alternative therapies.
This case supports findings from the original case series, where:
- Patients showed significant reduction in pain and disability
- No adverse effects were reported
- Varmam therapy proved cost-effective and patient-centered
Conclusion
This case highlights that Siddha Varmam therapy can be an effective, safe, and non-invasive approach for managing cervical spondylosis (Ceganavatham).
It not only reduces pain but also restores functional mobility and improves quality of life.
However, as noted in research, larger randomized clinical trials are needed to further validate its mechanism and long-term efficacy.
Key Takeaways
- Cervical spondylosis is a growing lifestyle disorder with significant impact
- Siddha identifies it as Ceganavatham with systemic symptom correlation
- Varmam therapy provides holistic pain relief through energy regulation
- Evidence shows marked improvement in pain and disability scores
- Safe, cost-effective, and patient-friendly alternative therapy
References
- Venkatraman M et al. Effect of Siddha Varmam Therapy in the Management of Cervical Spondylosis – A Case Series. PMCID: PMC12044161
- Melzack R, Wall PD. Pain mechanisms: A new theory. Science.
- Yugi Vaithiya Sinthamani (Siddha Text)
- Pararasa Sekaram (Siddha Literature)
- Vernon H, Mior S. Neck Disability Index: A study of reliability and validity
