An Ayurvedic Management of Transverse Myelities- A Single Case Study

Transverse myelitis is an inflammatory disorder of the spinal cord characterized by sensory, motor and autonomic dysfunction. The present case study is about Longitudinally Extensive Transverse Myelitis (LETM), a variant of Neuromyelitis Optica, this condition can be correlated with Vata Vyadhi arising from Avarana and Dhatu Kshaya in Ayurveda. A 28year old married female presented with loss of sensation in the lower half of the body, low back pain, inability to stand or walk and loss of bladder and bowel control. She had previously received high dose intravenous steroids with minimal relief. The patient was assessed as Vata-Kaphaja Sharirika Prakriti and Madhyama Satwa Pravritti. Ayurvedic treatment was planned and done for the duration of 105 days, including Sarvanga Abhyanga, Matravasti, Merudandavasti, Pichu, Shashtika Shali Pinda Sweda, Dashamoola Ksheera Nadi Sweda, Yapana Vasti along with oral medications. The patient achieved symptomatic relief of up to 90% with marked improvement in sensory functions, motor ability, bladder and bowel control. The therapeutic outcomes were significantly better compared to the prior allopathic treatment. This case suggests that Ayurvedic interventions based on Vata Vyadhi principles, plays a vital role in the management of LETM. The holistic approach of external therapies, internal therapies like Vastis and oral medication provided viable recovery and functional improvement. Ayurvedic treatment proved effectiveness in managing Longitudinally Extensive Transverse Myelitis, offering a therapeutic pathway when conventional management yields limited results.