Ayurvedic management of postlumbar myelomeningocele surgery: A case study

Area of Science:

• Ayurvedic Medicine
• Pediatric Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Myelomeningocele surgery can lead to neurogenic bladder and bowel dysfunction, impacting quality of life.
• Congenital talipes equinovarus (clubfoot) often co-occurs with myelomeningocele, presenting additional mobility challenges.
• Conventional treatments may not fully address the complex symptoms associated with these conditions.

Observation:

• An 11-year-old male with a history of myelomeningocele surgery and congenital talipes equinovarus presented with urinary incontinence, constipation, lower limb weakness, and sensory deficits below the ankles since age 5.
• The patient experienced significant functional limitations due to these combined neurological and orthopedic issues.

Findings:

• The child received Ayurvedic interventions including anulomana (physiologic regulation), sarvāṅga abhyaṅga (whole-body oleation/massage), saṅgraha cikitsā (palliative therapy), avagāha sveda (hip bath sudation), and matrā basti (medicated enema).
• Post-treatment, the child demonstrated improved bladder control, including awareness of bladder fullness and a desire to void.
• Significant improvements were noted in reduced daytime urinary voids and decreased wetness, indicating enhanced bladder management.

Implications:

• Ayurvedic therapies show promise in managing neurogenic bladder dysfunction secondary to myelomeningocele.
• Integrated approaches combining Ayurvedic principles with conventional care may offer a holistic solution for pediatric patients with complex neurological and orthopedic conditions.
• Further research is warranted to explore the mechanisms and long-term efficacy of these Ayurvedic interventions in similar patient populations.