Thokkanam – Siddha Physiotherapic techniques

Thokkanam is the Siddha way of touch therapy. It is the physical manipulation of the body usually done with or with out oil application It is very effective for neurological and musculoskeletal problems. It also promotes mental and physical fitness. According to Siddha, disease in the body occur due imbalance of three humours that is Vatham, Pitham and kapham which in turn are governed by five fundamental elements – Akayam (Space), Vayu (Air), Theyu (Fire), Appu (Water) and Munn (Earth). Thokkanam is one of the 32 types of external medicines mentioned in siddha literature. In this technique, the physician uses his hands on the body of the patient in 9 different unique ways with or without using medicated oil with a curative or palliative point of view. The 9 different techniques in thokkanam which makes siddha medicine unique in all aspects. They are :

1. Thattal or Patting technique
2. Irukkal or Tightening
3. Pidithal or Holding
4. Murukkal or Twisting
5. Kattal or Tying
6. Azhuthal or Pressing
7. Izhuthal or Pulling
8. Mallathuthal or Supinating
9. Asaithal or shaking

Benefits of Thokkanam :

• Helps to cure Vatha diseases even without internal medicines
• Chronic diseases like Spondylosis, Lumbago, Disc prolapse, Hemiplegia, Neurological conditions etc are managed well through Thokkanam
• Improves circulation
• Treats Obesity
• Helps in pain relief
• Removes Indigestion, Constipation and Flatulence
• Induce sleep
• Helps maintain normal blood pressure
• Restores Vatham, Pitham and Kapham in normal ratio
• Regulates Vatha humour