Ayurvedic management of Motor Neuron Disorder (Mamsa Majjagata Sarvanga Vata) - A Case Report

Abstract

Motor neuron disorders are a group of progressive neurological diseases that affect motor neurons. As motor neurons degenerate, the brain's ability to initiate and control muscle movements diminishes, leading to severe disability and, eventually, death. A 52-year-old male patient apparently healthy 1 year ago, gradually over a period of 6-7 months patient experienced reduction of strength in bilateral lower and upper limb, slurred speech, fasciculation over thigh region. Patient observed progression of the above symptoms which made him unable to stand and walk without support, difficulty in swallowing. Patient visited National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bengaluru where magnetic resonance imaging of brain (impression: Grade 1 small vessel ischemic changes) and electromyography were done (impression: preganglionic neurogenic involvement of bulbar, cervical, thoracic and lumbar segments with evidence of ongoing denervation and chronic re-nervation: likely pathology-anterior horn cell). Diagnosed it as motor neuron disorder advised medications and physiotherapy (for 6 months). Later, after 1 year, patient visited SDM Ayurveda hospital 11.11.2024. Here, this was diagnosed as Mamsa-Majjagata Sarvanga Vata, based on the symptoms Bala Kshaya/Chesta Nivrutti (reduced strength), Vak Stamba (difficulty speaking), Mamsa Kshaya (muscle wasting). Patient was treated for 20 days with Ayurveda according to stages of the disease (Ama, Kapha Dosha, and Vata). Sarvanga Kayaseka, Agnichikitsa Lepa, Ksheera Vaitarana Basti, Brihat Vata Chintamani Rasa, Saraswatharishta, Agnitundi Vati, Vak Shuddhikara Choorna, and physiotherapy were adopted. Assessed for changes in clinical features, Medical Research Council muscle scale for strength, Barthel Index. These assessments were shown significant improvements.