Ayurveda Management in Diabetic Neuropathy vis-à-vis Prameha Upadrava–A Case Study

Abstract

Background- Diabetes mellitus (DM) in India has a higher prevalence (4.3%) than in the west (1-2%) and its complication rate is also high.  Diabetic neuropathy symptoms include pain, numbness, reduced sensation of touch or oversensitivity, uncomfortable tingling and burning, skin ulcer and reduced reflexes. Diabetic neuropathies are seen in approximately 50% of individuals with long standing type 1 and type 2 DM and it often goes undiagnosed. This article presents a case study of patient with signs and symptoms of neuropathy who came with the complaint of lower back pain, bilateral lower limb pain, pricking sensation and burning sensation. Diabetic Neuropathy Examination score (DNE) along with other neuropathy screening parameters was more than 60% indicating functional loss. The Nerve conduction study also revealed demyelinating polyneuropathy.

Observations and Results: The patient was treated with ayurvedic oral medication, Abhyanga (~application of medicated oils), swedana (~fomentation), and basti (~medicated enema). After ayurvedic treatment the patient showed good remission in pain, burning sensation and DNE along with all neuropathy screening were less than 20%. Patient got marked relief in all the symptoms.