Assessing the Efficacy of Ayurveda Treatment Protocol in Mitigating Signs and Symptoms of Myelomeningocele: A Case Study Analysis

Abstract

Myelomeningocele is a neural tube defect where the spinal cord protrudes due to incomplete closure during embryonic development. The efficacy of Ayurvedic treatment was evaluated for a 3 ½-year-old girl who was admitted to the National Ayurveda Hospital in Borella during her second rotation, presenting with walking difficulties, joint contractures, and incontinence. This condition was diagnosed as Balaka vata vyadhi. The treatment was designed to regulate Tridosha, particularly Vata dosha, to alleviate the signs and symptoms associated with the condition. During the first week, the patient was given Trikatukadi decoction (½ Patha), Chandra kalka (1.25g) with Mahadalu anupana, Desadun kalka (1.25g, Inguru koththamalli phantaya (1.25g) all administered twice a day. Additionally, Sarasthwata choornaya (1.25g) with bee honey in the morning, and Vachadi choornaya (1.25g) with bee honey at night, and Dhatree choornaya (1.25g) at night were prescribed. In the second week, the decoction was modified to Trikatukadi (½ patha), and Chandra kalka was excluded, while the remaining internal medications were continued. As Bahihparimarjana chikithsa, Sheersha abhyanga was performed using Divyanganadi oil, and Hasth, Pada Abhyanga was done with Nirgunyadi oil. Bone marrow paste was applied to bilateral lower limbs. Pichu 1 with Narayana oil was applied to lower back and Pichu 2 with Prasarani oil was applied to bilateral knee and ankle joints. The external treatment regimen remained consistent throughout both weeks. Following two cycles of treatment, the child exhibited significant improvements: Bladder control was regained, daytime voiding was reduced, bladder and anal sphincter strength increased, and her ability to walk with support improved. The treatment involved Shodhana, Vata shamana, and Tarpana therapies. While the initial outcomes are encouraging, further clinical studies are necessary to validate the efficacy of this treatement protoc