Article: AYURVEDA APPROACH IN CLINICAL DIAGNOSIS AND MANAGEMENT OF TRAUMA INDUCED ACUTE TRANSVERSE MYELITIS WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO KUKUNDARA MARMABHIGATA: A CASE REPORT

Article Category: Case Reports

DOI: 10.7897/2277-4343.16246

Pages: 69-74

Author: HS Harshitha *, Mythrey RC, Sukesh MK

Abstract: Background: Acute Transverse myelitis is a rare, acute focal inflammatory disorder often presenting with rapid onset weakness, sensory deficits, and bowel/bladder dysfunction. Among varied causes, trauma is one significant cause for Acute transverse myelitis. A 27-year-old female with history of fall, came to Kayachikitsa OPD with complaint of inability to walk without support and reduced sensation in both the lower limbs associated with mild pain at low back region. She also complained of diminished bladder and bowel control. In Ayurveda, based on Hetu (~ cause) and Sthana Vishesha (~ pathological site) - this condition was diagnosed as Abhigata (~trauma) to Kukundara marma (~vital spot in low back region). Marmabhighata (~injury to Marma) being one among the Nidana (~cause) of Vatavyadhi (~disorders of Vata dosha) treatment was planned accordingly. Results: Observations were recorded timely. Structured Panchakarma (~five internal bio-cleansing therapies) protocol consisting of Sarvanga agnilepa, Virechana (~purgation), Sarvanga Shashtika Shali Pinda sweda, Kati Basti and Yapana Basti (~enema) along with oral medications were administered across 4 sessions over a span of 6 months. At the end of fourth session of treatment, patient was able to walk without support, while mild degree right foot drop and mild limping persisted. Conclusion: Acute transverse myelitis, is a demyelinating disorder. Panchakarma protocol provided promising results in improving motor and sensory functions along with bowel/bladder control. This case report is an approach to enhance awareness of Ayurveda in managing acute conditions and its mode of action for potential therapeutic benefits and improvement of overall quality of life.

Keyword: Acute Transverse Myelitis, Kukundara Marma, Marmabhighata, Mustadi Rajayapana Basti, Myelopathy, Trauma, Vatavyadhi.