Marma chikilsa is followed only in Kerala and Southern parts of Tamil Nadu. In Ayurveda ‘salya tantra ‘ marma tantra has high importantance . Marma massage is primarily called Thirummu chikilsa or Thirummal . Chavitti Thirummal comes under it.
Marma Chikilsa is an integral part of Kalaripayattu. Marma literally means a vital point. According to Kalaripayattu doctrines there are 108 marmas on the human body and 12 of them are highly significant called padumarma. Injuries to these points are fatal. The other 96 marmas are called Thodumarmas not as significant as the padumarmas. A shock to a marma can be reversed by applying negative shocks ( maruttu in Malayalam). In Marma chikilsa the injuries to the marmas are treated. Marma chikilsa also addresses sprains , dislocated joints and bones, correction of bones , etc. It is done by massaging the body by applying sufficient pressure over the marmas. Herbal oils are used for massaging.
Marma chikilsa is used as a corrective and rejuvenating therapy. Marma message is done for enhancing natural resistance of the body to diseases, better posture and composure, increase in mental acuity and for overall sense of well being both mentally and physically.
