Read

Ayurvedic management of cervical myelopathy- A case report  

A 36-year-old diabetic male patient was diagnosed with cervical myelopathy. The diagnosis was confirmed by an MRI dorsal spine which revealed symmetric T2 hyperintensity in the long segment of the spinal cord. He was confined to bed during the course of treatment. The patient was administered steroids and other undisclosed supportive medications for 2 months. Urine and bowel incontinence was present during the initial period which resolved with the standard care treatments.  The symptoms such as the weakness and loss of sensation in both lower limbs associated with weakness and occasional numbness of upper limbs persisted. The patient opted Ayurvedic treatment for further management and approached Dr Mukesh. The Japanese Orthopedic Association scoring was Grade 2, revealing reduced sensory and motor functions. The physician diagnosed this clinical condition as Sarvanga vata. Rukshana therapy was administered followed by Vata Samana and Rasayana therapy. At the time of discharge, after 38 days of treatment, numbness of the upper limb reduced with improved muscle power and other sensory parameters of both upper and lower limbs. In the follow-up, after 2 months the Japanese Orthopedic Association scoring indicated a normal functioning grade. The patient is now able to walk without any support.    This case report demonstrates the scope of Ayurvedic treatment in disabling cervical myelopathy.