Exploring Hijama (Cupping Therapy) for Sciatica Relief: An Integrative Review of Unani Practices

Abstract

Background: Since ancient times, Unani physicians have controlled certain illnesses by altering the metabolic process using a variety of therapeutic approaches. Some treatment tenets have been promoted by Ibne-sina (Avicenna). Regimenal therapy is a fundamental approach to treatment that aims to eradicate sick matter, control excessive production, control its spread, and resolve it by specialised approaches, ultimately restoring humoral equilibrium. Hijama (Cupping) is one such operation. The Arabic word "Hijamat" (from the phrase “Hajm”) means "volume", but it is also used to refer to sucking. Additionally, it might indicate "to minimise", "to return to basic size", or "to reduce the volume". One of the most prevalent symptoms of Irq-al-nasa (Sciatica) is lower limb neuralgic pain. This illness has the potential to become persistent and chronic, with significant socioeconomic consequences. Its overall incidence is estimated to be between 13% and 40%. Objective: Mainstream therapists primarily treat Sciatica with medication, surgery, or occasionally both. There should be an efficient substitute for evidence-based medicine because of its negative impacts, high cost, and disease-centric approach to treatment. Extensive research has been conducted to investigate the potential benefits of this traditional treatment plan for the management of Sciatica.

Keywords: Cupping, Irq-al-nasa, Sciatica, Hijama, Unani medicine