Management of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy by Ayurvedic Principles: A Case Study

Abstract

Duchenne muscular dystrophy is the most common and severe form of childhood muscular dystrophy, with an incidence of 1 case in 3500 male births. It is an X linked recessive disorder due to the absence or alteration of the dystrophin protein, encoded by the DMD gene on chromosome Xp21. Corticosteroids are the only medications that have shown to alter the course of DMD but are associated with their side effects such as weight gain, decreased appetite, increased tendency to develop cataract and osteoporosis. Another issue that remains unclear is when to cease steroid therapy. The present study is about management of 13 years old male child with difficulty in walking, frequent falls while walking, difficulty in sitting in squatting position, slipping of slippers for 6 years. Based on Ayurvedic principles, present case was managed with Panchakarma for two sittings (16 days each) at an interval of 30 days. Shamana Aushadha was also prescribed. After therapy, substantial improvement in CPK levels along with signs and symptoms was found. Though the genetic predisposition cannot be ruled out, the disease can be effectively managed by Ayurvedic principles and lifestyle of the patient can be improved. The absence of specific treatment for muscular dystrophy makes it even more important to consider alternative approaches of treatment.

Keywords: Ayurveda, CPK, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, dystrophin, panchakarma

Cite this Article

Karishma Singh, Gopesh Mangal. Management of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy by Ayurvedic Principles: A Case Study. Research & Reviews: Journal of Medical Science and Technology. 2020; 9(1): 1–5p.