Add on Effect of Smriti Meditation in Neck Pain Associated with Psychological Distress: A Case Report

Abstract

Neck pain is the most prevalent musculoskeletal condition resulting from physical and psychosocial factors. Studies point those psychological conditions including anxiety, distress and depression results in musculoskeletal disorders. Addressing psychological distress with medical management and psychotherapeutic techniques aids stress coping healthily. Ayurveda explains psychological factors as causative for all painful conditions including neck pain. Sodhana, samana along with satvavajaya to be adopted in its management. Satvavajaya alleviates this condition by restraining mind from erroneous objects of focus. Smriti meditation is a guided interactive technique developed based on Satvavajaya. Recognition of the actual contributing factors serves as a partial solution and contributes to overall healing process. It serves as valuable tool in formulating and focusing on a proper goal, expanding awareness of goal, sustaining awareness on the object of meditation and addressing emotional obstacles and replicates all thoughts and emotions. The case report narrates adjuvant role of smriti meditation in psychosomatic neck pain. Patient underwent three sessions of Smriti meditation, each lasting 45 minutes and conducted weekly, combined with internal medicines, resulting in satisfactory relief from symptoms. Significant improvements were observed in both the Hamilton Anxiety and Depression scales following the intervention. Neck pain was evaluated using the Copenhagen Neck Functional Disability scale, showing improvement only after the psychotherapeutic intervention, highlighting the impact of Smriti meditation. Pain significantly decreased two weeks post discharge, and there was notable improvement in the strength of the right upper limb. Additionally, the patient could limit the perception of stress, contributing to a healthier lifestyle.