Ayurvedic Management of Pangu [Paraplegia]- Post Surgical Case of Intra Medullary Ependymoma-A Case Report

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Ayurveda defines health as the balance of Tridosha, Agni, Saptha dhatus, Mala, Prasanna-Atma-Indriya and Manas. The normal role of Vata is to regulate motor and sensory systems, and its imbalance leads to a decline in these functions. Pangu is a disease caused by vitiated Vata. It is described among 80 Vata Rogas. The disease originates in the Kati region, possibly involving Katyasrita Vata that is Apana Vayu along with Vyana Vata.

 Paraplegia involves the paralysis of the lower extremities. Although weakness in the lower limbs may arise from peripheral nerve or muscle diseases, the terms paraparesis and paraplegia are typically used to describe manifestations resulting from lesions in the dorsal and lumbosacral region of the spinal cord.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the impact of Ayurveda treatment, comprising of external Panchakarma therapies and internal medications in management of Pangu (Paraplegia), post-surgical case of intra medullary ependymoma.

METHODOLOGY: Here is case report of patient, 45 years old female presented with complaint of low back pain, who was diagnosed with Intra medullary ependymoma. She underwent surgery of D9-D10 laminectomy and total excision of space occupying lesion. Post-surgically she developed pain in low back and weakness of both lower limbs, she was unable to walk without support. She was admitted and treated in lines of Pangu.

RESULTS: Significant improvement was observed in complaints of weakness of both lower limbs and reduction in low back pain. Initially Muscle power was 3/5 in bilateral lower limbs and at the time of discharge it was 5/5. At the time of discharge pt was able to walk without support. demonstrating the potential of Ayurveda therapies in managing the condition.

CONCLUSION: Pangu / paraplegia developed as a result of postsurgical excision of Intra medullary ependymoma was treated successfully. This case highlights the potential of Ayurveda Panchakarma therapies and internal medications, as effective interventions in managing Pangu.