An Ayurvedic Approach to Medullary Infarction: A Case Study

Abstract

Pakshaghata is one among the vataja nanatmaja vyadhi(1). It is mentioned by acharya sushruta as mahavatavyadhi (2). Samprapti of all vatavyadhi can be analysed in 2 ways namely Dhatukshaya and Margavarana. Pakshaghata can be co-relaed to stroke which is leading cause of disability, with 15 million people affected worldwide every year. It can be broadly classified into two types i.e. ischemic and haemorrhagic and depending upon site it can be classified into two types i.e. intracerebral and sub arachnoid. Panchkarma is Shodhana Pradhana therapy, which includes five major procedures for Shodhana of body. A Male patient of 57 years old presented with weakness in bilateral lower limb and giddiness since 10 days and advised for panchakarma therapy with oral medication for 17 days. The treatment protocol included Shirodhara, seka, abhyanga, talam, basti along with some internal medicine and Physiotherapy. Difficulty in walking and giddiness has significantly improved following the aforementioned treatment. At the conclusion of the treatment according to SSS criteria the score improved from 41 to 53. Hence there was an observable change in the mobility and strength after Panchakarma treatment.