Management of chottu neer (urinary incontinence) with varmam therapy
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Management of chottu neer (urinary incontinence) with varmam therapy
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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T. Porselvi, G. Saraswathi, M. Mahalakshmi, M. Kodeeswaran and N. Shunmugom
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Management of chottu neer (urinary incontinence) with varmam therapy
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr201710-9477
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Urinary incontinence (UI) is characterized by the involuntary leakage of urine, resulting in social stigma and affecting individuals across age groups. In Tamil Siddha literature, urinary incontinence is termed "chottu neer" or "chottu muthiram." Various causative factors including emotional distress and physical ailments contribute to this condition. This study evaluates the effectiveness of Varmam therapy, a traditional Siddha method that utilizes subtle energy points in the body, in managing different types of urinary incontinence in a clinical setting.
The Essence of Varmam Therapy
Varmam therapy, a distinctive aspect of Siddha medicine, is a drugless treatment modality focusing on stimulating specific energy points known as varma points. These points are believed to harness the "pranic energy" that underlies various bodily functions. The therapy is said to promote overall health by restoring energy flow through these points. Key varma points targeted for urinary incontinence include "Kondaikolli Varmam" and "Muthira Kalam," which play critical roles in regulating functions related to micturition and bladder control. The unique nature of Varmam therapy allows practitioners to address ailments without invasive procedures or medication.
Clinical Study Design and Findings
The clinical study involved 65 participants of varying ages, comprising 17 males, 29 females, and 19 children, all suffering from urinary incontinence. Treatment involved stimulating the identified varma points twice a week for durations ranging from four weeks to one year. Results indicated a remarkable overall effectiveness, with 93.85% of patients achieving excellent results in managing stress urinary incontinence, urge incontinence, and overflow incontinence. Detailed observations revealed that children responded particularly well, managing to control their bladder urges more effectively after treatment.
Types of Urinary Incontinence Addressed
The study categorized the types of urinary incontinence among participants, including stress urinary incontinence (SUI), urge urinary incontinence (UUI), overflow incontinence (OFT), and nocturnal enuresis. A significant number of participants showed improvement across these categories. Interestingly, all children suffering from bedwetting reported positive responses, with a minimal number demonstrating poor outcomes. The treatment results reaffirmed that the types of incontinence varied greatly between individuals; however, the effectiveness of Varmam therapy remained strong across all patient demographics.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Varmam therapy emerges as a valuable alternative for managing urinary incontinence across different age groups and types. The results of this study suggest that it is a non-invasive, efficient, and time-effective treatment modality with minimal side effects. Given that traditional medical approaches may lack permanent cures for UI, Varmam therapy could provide a holistic solution, meriting further investigation and broader application within the realm of alternative medicine.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is urinary incontinence as defined in Siddha literature?
Urinary incontinence, termed 'chottu neer' in Siddha literature, refers to any involuntary leakage of urine. It may cause significant social stigma and can affect individuals of all ages, including children and the elderly.
What is Varmam therapy and its significance in treatment?
Varmam therapy is a drugless treatment from the Siddha medical system. It focuses on stimulating specific points in the body, known as varma points, which are believed to restore the flow of subtle energy, thereby promoting health and healing.
What was the age range of participants in the clinical study?
The clinical study involved 65 patients aged between 5 to 80 years old. This included both males and females, as well as children, allowing for a broad assessment of urinary incontinence across different demographics.
What were the results of the Varmam therapy for urinary incontinence?
Varmam therapy was found to be effective for various types, including stress and urge incontinence, with an overall success rate of 93.85%. Responses varied, with good results observed in different patient categories.
How often was Varmam therapy administered during the study?
Participants received Varmam therapy twice a week for a duration ranging from four weeks to one year, depending on their individual needs and responses to the treatment.
What underlying factors contribute to urinary incontinence according to the research?
Contributing factors include emotional conditions like anxiety, infections, and physical issues such as pelvic floor muscle weakness and neurological conditions. Imbalances in the body's three humors, according to Siddha principles, are also considered significant.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Management of chottu neer (urinary incontinence) with varmam therapy”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Varman (Varma, Varmam):
Varma indicates the specific points in the body known as energy centers in the Siddha system. Therapy at these points is thought to regulate physical functions and combat various ailments by restoring the natural flow of pranic energy, highlighting a unique approach to health care in Tamil Siddha traditions.
2) Siddha:
Siddha is an ancient Indian system of medicine that employs holistic approaches combining elements of spirituality, herbal treatment, and specific therapies like Varmam. Siddha emphasizes balance among the body's energies and the use of natural substances for treatment, thus promoting an integrated perspective on health and wellness.
3) Male:
This term specifies the gender of patients in the clinical study on urinary incontinence. Recognizing the prevalence of urinary issues across genders is crucial for determining treatment approaches. In the study, male patients represented a significant sample, with specific responses to Varmam therapy informing gender-specific medical insights.
4) Kalam:
Kalam, in Siddha medicine, indicates points of therapeutic significance wherein energy concentration can influence bodily functions. Identifying these points is crucial in the application of Varmam therapy, linking physical health with energy dynamics, and offering insights into targeted methods for alleviating conditions like urinary incontinence.
5) Study (Studying):
The term denotes a systematic investigation into the effectiveness of Varmam therapy for managing urinary incontinence. This clinical study involved diverse patient demographics and aimed to gather evidence regarding therapeutic outcomes, which could validate traditional Siddha healing practices and contribute towards contemporary medical understanding.
6) Pur:
In the context of the study, 'poor' describes the inadequate response to Varmam therapy among some patients. Understanding this classification is essential for analyzing the overall effectiveness of the treatment and refining therapeutic approaches when addressing urinary incontinence, ensuring tailored interventions for varying patient responses.
7) Table:
Tables in the study present organized data summarizing patient responses and categorization of urinary incontinence types. They serve as visual aids that facilitate understanding and interpretation of results, enabling clearer comparisons among subgroups, contributing to transparent presentations of clinical findings and supporting data-driven conclusions.
8) Disease:
The term disease in the study focuses on urinary incontinence as a health condition characterized by involuntary urine leakage, impacting both social and physical well-being. Identifying underlying causes and potential remedies, particularly from perspectives like Varmam therapy, underscores the necessity for multiple treatment approaches in health care.
9) Medicine:
Medicine refers to the broader category of practices aimed at healing, including Siddha therapy and Varmam therapy as non-invasive treatment modalities. Understanding the integration of traditional practices within the framework of modern medical systems emphasizes a multi-faceted approach to health, recognizing the value of diverse healing methodologies.
10) Tamilnadu (Tamil-nadu):
Tamilnadu, the Indian state where this study was conducted, is significant due to its cultural heritage that includes the Siddha system of medicine. The region's traditional practices, including Varmam therapy, highlight the importance of local medical traditions in addressing health issues like urinary incontinence effectively.
11) Kantam:
Kaandam refers to specific sections or content within Siddha medical texts that outline therapeutic approaches. In the study, references to kaandam support the understanding of varma points and their therapeutic significance, providing a historical context for the interventions applied in managing urinary incontinence.
12) Vali:
Vali represents one of the three humors in Siddha medicine, indicating vital energy or life force essential for physical and mental health. Its balance is critical in addressing urinary incontinence, as imbalances might contribute to health conditions, making therapeutic approaches focus on restoring this equilibrium essential for wellness.
13) Life:
In the context of Siddha therapy, life encompasses holistic well-being that integrates physical, emotional, and spiritual health. Varmam therapy aims to enhance life quality by restoring energy balance, thereby effectively managing conditions like urinary incontinence, underlining the interconnection between health practices and overall life quality.
14) Tirumular (Thiru-mular, Thirumular):
Thirumoolar was a revered Siddha practitioner whose teachings have significantly influenced Siddha medicine. His contributions provide foundational principles and practices in the field, including concepts guiding varma therapy, underscoring the legitimacy and the philosophical background of the traditional methods outlined in the study.
15) Siddhar:
Siddhar refers to an accomplished practitioner within the Siddha medicine tradition. Their experiential knowledge and mysticism enrich the practice of Varmam therapy, adding a personal touch in treatment approaches, guiding patients through their healing processes, thus aligning therapeutic effectiveness with traditional wisdom.
16) Surface:
Surface indicates the specific areas of the body where Varmam therapy is applied. Knowledge of anatomical surfaces is essential for accurately locating varma points, ensuring effective treatment administration, and explaining how physical stimulation can significantly impact underlying physiological processes in managing urinary incontinence.
17) Vattam:
Vatham is one of the three doshas in Siddha medicine representing space and air elements. Its imbalance is associated with various health issues, including urinary incontinence. Understanding Vatham's role allows clinicians to focus on restoring balance through therapies such as Varmam, facilitating holistic healing for patients.
18) India:
India is the geographical context of the Siddha system, historically rich in traditional practices that encompass maternal and juvenile health care. Recognizing India's diverse medical heritage highlights the cultural significance of practices like Varmam therapy and their contributions to contemporary medical practices addressing various health conditions.
19) Tamil:
Tamil, as both a language and cultural element, is central to the Siddha system of medicine. It encompasses the teachings, texts, and terminologies essential for understanding therapies like Varmam, ensuring the preservation and communication of traditional practices within the community and the medical field.
20) Guru:
Guru signifies the teacher or mentor within the Siddha tradition, especially related to Varmam therapy. The guru-disciple relationship is fundamental in preserving and teaching traditional wisdom and practices, ensuring that knowledge transfer is effective, leading to the proper application of therapies and their benefits to patients.
21) Line:
Line indicates pathways or connections within Siddha belief, particularly concerning energy flows related to varma points. Understanding these lines aids in directing therapeutic interventions effectively. In this context, it signifies the connections between various therapeutic points and their physiological impacts, assisting with effective treatment strategies.
22) Drug:
In this context, drug implies conventional medicine commonly used to treat various conditions. The emphasis on drugless therapies like Varmam reflects a shift towards recognizing alternative and complementary treatment modalities, illustrating an evolving perspective in patient care and management, particularly concerning urinary incontinence.
23) Observation:
Observation refers to the process of carefully monitoring patient responses during and after Varmam therapy administration. Documenting such observations is crucial in assessing therapeutic effectiveness, identifying patterns of recovery, and contributing to the overall understanding of how traditional treatments can address modern health issues.
24) Discussion:
Discussion denotes the analytical portion of the study, providing insights into the results and exploring the implications of findings related to Varmam therapy. This section fosters a critical evaluation of treatment outcomes, sharing interpretations, and establishing connections between traditional practices and contemporary medical understanding.
25) Kundalini (Kumdalini):
Kundalini symbolizes the spiritual energy believed to reside within the body in the Siddha tradition. Its awakening and balancing are considered essential for health and well-being. In the context of Varmam therapy, its significance lies in promoting overall vitality and facilitating healing by activating energy pathways within the body.
26) Mudaliyar:
Mudaliyar refers to an honorary title traditionally associated with scholars or practitioners in Tamil culture. In Siddha medicine, practitioners like Dr. Kupusamy Mudaliyar have documented knowledge, contributing to the understanding of urinary incontinence and the effectiveness of treatments like Varmam, highlighting significant historical context.
27) Knowledge:
Knowledge encompasses the accumulated understanding and wisdom derived from traditional practices, historical texts, and clinical experiences in Siddha medicine. In the study's context, it signifies the foundation upon which Varmam therapy is practiced, emphasizing the importance of informed approaches to treatment and patient care.
28) Substance:
Substance refers to tangible materials or elements used in Siddha practices for healing. In therapies like Varmam, knowledge of physical and metaphysical substances is required to impact health conditions effectively. The focus on substance highlights the holistic nature of treatment approaches in traditional medicinal practices.
29) Attending:
Attending indicates the action of patients who seek treatment at the Institute, reflecting active participation in their healthcare journey. This engagement underscores the importance of patient involvement in the healing processes, particularly when utilizing therapies like Varmam, aimed at addressing urinary incontinence.
30) Language:
Language, particularly Tamil, serves as a medium for articulating the teachings and practices within the Siddha system. It facilitates communication, understanding, and preservation of traditional knowledge, essential for effective implementation of healing therapies such as Varmam in managing health conditions.
31) Anxiety:
Anxiety is recognized as a significant emotional contributor to urinary incontinence in both traditional and modern medicine. Understanding the psychological factors helps in formulating comprehensive treatment strategies, especially within Siddha practices that emphasize the interplay between mind, body, and emotions in health.
32) Cancer:
Cancer is included as a possible cause for some urinary incontinence cases in the study, emphasizing the complexity of medical conditions. Addressing such underlying causes is critical for effective therapeutic strategies, necessitating an awareness that merges traditional insights with modern medical knowledge for comprehensive treatment.
33) Pittam (Pittham):
Pitham, one of the three doshas in the Siddha tradition, represents the fire and energy elements. An imbalance in Pitham can lead to various health conditions, including urinary incontinence. Understanding its role helps in tailoring treatments that aim to restore balance and promote overall health among patients.
34) Panca (Pancan, Pamca):
Pancha signifies the five elements (Space, Air, Fire, Water, Earth) in Siddha philosophy. Understanding these elements is crucial for comprehending bodily functions and health principles underpinning therapies like Varmam, highlighting the holistic approach embraced by the Siddha system for achieving balance and wellness.
35) Water:
Water, as one of the five elements, plays a vital role in the bodily functions described in Siddha medicine and contributes to understanding fluid balance. Its relevance extends to physiological processes involved in urinary health, making it an essential consideration in managing conditions like incontinence.
36) Birth:
Birth signifies the beginning of life and, in the context of health, reflects the importance of initial conditions affecting long-term well-being. Understanding therapeutic approaches relating to birth in Siddha practice can offer insights into preventive measures, potentially aiding in better management of conditions like urinary incontinence.
37) Earth:
Earth, as a fundamental element in Siddha philosophy, represents physicality, stability, and material existence. Its impact on health and disease illustrates the connection between environmental factors and the body's physiological state, which is pertinent to understanding therapies like Varmam for managing urinary incontinence effectively.
38) Mala:
Mala refers to waste or impurities that can accumulate in the body, affecting health in Siddha medicine. In managing urinary incontinence, addressing mala is crucial, as it encompasses the need for cleansing and restoration for optimal bodily functions, highlighting the importance of holistic practices in treatment.
39) Diet:
Diet signifies the nutritional aspect of health management within Siddha practices. Proper dietary habits are considered essential for balancing the body's humors and improving overall health outcomes, including managing urinary incontinence by supporting therapeutic interventions, emphasizing the integration of nutrition in holistic healing.
40) Fear:
Fear, as an emotional state, can exacerbate urinary incontinence, particularly in psychological and neurological contexts. Understanding the effects of fear on bodily functions is essential for developing comprehensive treatments that address both the physiological and psychological factors influencing urinary health.
41) Fire:
Fire symbolizes one of the five elements in Siddha traditions, representing transformation and metabolism within the body. Its role in bodily functions is crucial for understanding disorders such as urinary incontinence, indicating the need for therapeutic interventions that balance these elemental principles for better health.