Abstract

AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF MOTOR NEURON DISEASE IN A GERIATRIC PATIENT: A CASE REPORT

*Dr. Minaxi Zala, Prof. (Dr.) A. B. Thakar

ABSTRACT

Background: Motor Neuron Disease (MND) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder with poor prognosis. Ayurveda considers such conditions under Vata Vyadhi, where therapies like Basti, Nasya, and Rasayana are emphasized. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of Ayurvedic interventions in a geriatric case of MND. Case: A 70-year-old male patient presented with progressive neurological decline including weakness, tremors, slurred speech, dysphagia, imbalance, and bilateral leg swelling. MRI revealed mild cerebral atrophy and EMG indicated anterior horn cell pathology. Intervention: A 32-days Ayurvedic protocol included Dasha Moola Parisheka, Abhyanga, Swedana, Matra Basti, Pratimarsha Nasya, and oral medicines. Results: Bilateral leg swelling resolved within 4 days. ALSFRS-R score improved from 20 to 25, SF-36 QoL from 41.9 to 54.4, with improvement in speech, swallowing, mobility, and hand grip. Conclusion: Ayurvedic managementprovided symptomatic relief, functional gain, and improved quality of life in this case of MND. Larger clinical studies are needed.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Motor Neuron Disease, Panchakarma, Rasayana, VataVyadhi.