Ayurvedic Approach to Multiple Sclerosis Management - A Case Report
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Abstract
Background- Multiple sclerosis [MS] is a chronic autoimmune condition characterized by inflammation and demyelination of nerve fibres, characterized by relapsing sensory symptoms, subacute loss of function of the upper limb, 6th cranial nerve palsy, progressive non-compressive paraparesis, postural tremors, and optic neuritis. where the prevalence is about 120 per 100000. The annual incidence is around 7 per 100000, while the lifetime risk of developing MS is about 1 in 400. In Ayurveda, multiple sclerosis can be correlated to Asthimajjagata vata.
Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of Ayurvedic treatment in the case of Multiple sclerosis using the EDSS [expanded disability status scale] as an outcome measure.
Clinical findings- Here is a case of a 39-year-old female patient suffering from Multiple sclerosis complaints of Balakshaya in ubhaya urdhwa and adhoshaka associated with suptata. Based on Ayurvedic diagnosis, the condition was identified as Asthimajjagata vata, treated with panchakarma therapy including sarvanga dashamoola kashaya seka, sarvanga patrapinda sweda, sarvanga abhyanga, shashtika shali pinda sweda, shiropichu, Virechana, and basti for 3 sittings.
Outcome: The patient underwent Ayurvedic therapies targeting both Avarana and Vata. Significant improvement in clinical symptoms was observed. Remarkable relief in symptoms was noted on the EDSS [expanded disability status scale] before the treatment score was 6.0 and improved to 4.0 in 1st sitting (4/1/2023 to 11/2/2023), from 4.0 to 2.5 in 2nd sitting (8/3/2023 to 15/3/2023) and in 3rd sitting from 2.5 to 1.5 (11/1/2024 to 18/1/2024) after the treatment.
Conclusion: This case report shows the potential of Ayurvedic management. The improvement in EDSS scores before and after the treatment signifies the efficacy of Ayurvedic approach in managing this condition.