admin Varmam therapy is a traditional drugless, non-invasive physical manipulation technique from the Siddha medicine system that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body to manage pain and restore energy flow. It is used for conditions like musculoskeletal disorders, osteoarthritis, and neurological issues by addressing disturbances in the body’s vital energy pathways. While studies show it can reduce pain, stiffness, and improve functionality, proper expertise is crucial to avoid adverse effects.
How does it work?
Varmam points. The body is believed to have 108 vital points, or varmams, located at junctions of nerves, muscles, and bones.
Energy channels. These points are part of specific energy channels where energy flows uniformly.
Correcting imbalances. Varmam therapy aims to correct any derangement or disturbance in this energy flow by applying pressure to these points.
Manipulation. This involves applying a specific type and strength of pressure, often with massage or other methods, to the correct points.
What are its uses?
Pain relief. Varmam therapy is used to manage pain in conditions such as lumbar spondylosis, cervical spondylosis, and osteoarthritis.
Improved function. Studies have shown it can improve physical function and reduce stiffness in patients with osteoarthritis.
Other conditions. It is also used for a range of other ailments, including sinusitis, and nervous disorders.
Drugless and non-invasive. It is considered a drugless therapy that does not involve invasive procedures, making it a potentially safer option for some individuals.
Important considerations
Requires expertise. The practice requires deep knowledge and great expertise, as wrongly applied pressure can have negative or even dangerous results.
Holistic approach. Practitioners often recommend adhering to traditional Siddha lifestyle and dietary recommendations (Pattiyam) to complement the therapy and improve long-term outcomes.
Further research. While case studies and some research show promising results, further well-designed clinical trials are needed to validate these findings.
Research
Meena, R., Natarajan, S., Anbarasi, C., et al. (2021). Siddha Varmam and Thokkanam therapy in the treatment of adhesive capsulitis – A case report. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine.
Nagarajan, S., Miltonraj, A., Muthukumar, N., et al. (2018). Varmam therapy in Siddha system of medicine. International Journal of Current Research in Medical Sciences.
Senthilvel, G., & Amuthan, A. (2020). Application of Varmam (Physical manipulation therapy of traditional Siddha medicine) for contemporary health issues: An update. Journal of Ayurveda Medical Sciences.
Shenbagaraj, S., Balasubramanian, S., Ravichandran, D., et al. (2025). Non-invasive management of Thandaga vaatham (lumbar spondylosis) through Siddha Varmam therapy – A case report. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine.
Sindhuja B., Sankar, I., Mohan, R., et al. (2024). Effectiveness of Siddha Varmam therapy in improving pain, flexibility and quality of life in osteoarthritis adults: A randomized controlled study. Journal of Natural and Ayurvedic Medicine.
Sindhuja, B., Sankar, I., Reddy, R., et al. (2023). Utilization of Varmam therapy in improving quality of life (QoL) in patients with cervical dystonia – A case study. Indian Journal of Integrative Medicine.
Venkatraman, M., Karuppan, K., Murugappa, N., et al. (2025). Effect of Siddha Varmam therapy in the management of cervical spondylosis – A case series. Bioinformation.
