Integrative Strategy with Ayurveda and Electro-Acupuncture in Hemifacial Spasm: a Case Report

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Integrative Medicine
• Ayurveda

Background:

• Hemifacial spasm is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary facial twitching.
• Conventional treatments like medication and Botox injections may have limitations or recurrence.
• An integrative approach combining traditional and modern therapies offers a potential alternative.

Observation:

• A patient with primary hemifacial spasm experienced symptom recurrence after conventional treatment.
• The patient underwent integrative treatment including Ayurvedic therapies (Nasya, Ksheera dhooma, internal medications, Rasona navaneetha prayoga) and electro-acupuncture.
• Specific acupoints (GV20, GB14, EX-HN5, ST3, ST4, ST6, TE17, LI4, GB34) were targeted for electro-acupuncture.

Findings:

• Hemifacial spasm grading scores improved from 9 (before) to 6 (after treatment) and 4 (6-month follow-up).
• Quality of life scale scores improved from 20 (before) to 16 (after treatment) and 10 (6-month follow-up).
• The integrative treatment was observed to be safe and effective in managing hemifacial spasm.

Implications:

• Integrative medicine, combining Ayurveda and electro-acupuncture, shows promise for managing hemifacial spasm.
• This approach may offer a viable alternative for patients experiencing recurrence or seeking non-conventional therapies.
• Further research is warranted to validate these findings in larger patient cohorts.