worried about wrist drop: can Ayurveda help with nerve recovery? - #2205
My husband recently suffered a radial nerve injury after a fall, leading to wrist drop. We’ve been doing physiotherapy, but progress has been slow, and he’s getting frustrated with the lack of improvement. I’m curious if there are any Ayurvedic treatments, such as specific herbal oils or massages, that can help speed up the healing process for nerve damage. We want to avoid surgical options if possible. I’ve read about herbal oils like Ksheerabala Tailam being used for nerve pain and recovery, but I’m not sure if it applies to conditions like wrist drop. Any recommendations on effective Ayurvedic treatments?
100% Anonymous
completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.

Doctors’ responses
For nerve injuries like wrist drop caused by a radial nerve injury, Ayurveda offers several therapeutic options that may help promote healing and reduce symptoms. Ksheerabala Tailam is indeed an excellent choice, as it is often used to nourish and rejuvenate nerves, improve circulation, and relieve pain. It can be applied locally to the affected area with gentle massage or used in a warm oil bath to help relax the muscles and stimulate nerve function. Additionally, therapies like Abhyanga (Ayurvedic oil massage) with oils such as Mahanarayana Tailam can help reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation to the affected area, aiding in nerve repair. You may also want to incorporate herbal remedies like Ashwagandha, which has anti-inflammatory and nerve-repairing properties, and Brahmi, which is known for its ability to support cognitive and neurological health. It is best to consult with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner who can tailor the treatment to your husband’s specific needs and provide guidance on dosage and duration. With consistent Ayurvedic care, along with physiotherapy, there may be gradual improvement in nerve function and muscle strength.
Ah, wrist drop due to radial nerve injury… that’s tough and I get why you’re both feeling frustrated, healing can really test your patience. Ayurveda does offer some supportive therapies which might aid the recovery process, no magical fix but can promote healing, you know?
You mentioned Ksheerabala Tailam, that’s quite a good start. It’s known for supporting nerve health and relieving joint and nervous tension. A gentle massage with it, maybe once a day, can be soothing. But, be cautious with the pressure during the massage – the touch should be firm, not painful. Pair this with light heat, like a warm towel wrap after, to enhance the effect. Heat therapy might gently stimulate circulation, encouraging the body’s natural healing.
Diet-wise, pay attention to any vata aggravation. Vata, dosha governing movement and nervous system, gets easily thrown off balance due nerve issues. He should eat foods that are warm, moist, and grounding — think stews, soups, and root veggies. Avoid raw or dry foods which could aggravate vata. And cooking with good fats, like ghee or sesame oil, can be helpful. These nourish the body’s dhatus, or tissues, contributing to recovery.
Herbs, too, got supportive roles. You might want to look into Ashwagandha which strengthens nerve tissues. I recommend checking with a local Ayurvedic practitioner first just to balance it with his unique constitution (prakriti).
Meanwhile, continue physio without overexerting, the body has its rhythm of healing, and pushing too hard might increase vata. I’d say, relaxation techniques, meditation, or pranayama can also help calm the mind, easing mental stress from slow progress.
Of course, if the condition worsens or doesn’t improve it’s important to stay in touch with your healthcare provider. Gotta ensure there’s no urgent medical intervention necessary.

100% Anonymous
600+ certified Ayurvedic experts. No sign-up.
About our doctors
Only qualified ayurvedic doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.