Bridging tradition and Modernity: A clinical insight into Ayurvedic Management of Pakshaghata (Stroke-induced Hemiplegia)
*1Shubham Bhamare and 2Naresh Kore
1,2Department of Kayachikitsa, Parul Institute of Ayurved and Research, Parul University, Limda, Vadodara - 391760 (India) *Corresponding Author: 2Dr. Naresh Kore Email: naresh.kore86275@paruluniversity.ac.in
ABSTRACT
Classical Ayurvedic literature describes Pakshaghat as a disorder primarily influenced by Vata dosha, characterized by weakness or paralysis affecting one side of the body. The prognosis for this condition is influenced by various patient-specific factors, including Vaya (age), Bala (strength), and the involvement of doshas. In contemporary medicine, hemiplegia is frequently attributed to cerebrovascular accidents (strokes), which exhibit significant clinical parallels to Pakshaghat. This study aims to assess the impact of Ayurvedic Panchakarma and supportive therapies on a patient diagnosed with right-sided Pakshaghat, which correlates with hemiplegia. The patient suffering from right-sided Pakshaghat underwent a series of Panchakarma treatments, including Nasya (nasal administration of medicated oils), Vasti (medicated enema), and Karnapoorana (ear therapy). The Nasya and Karnapoorana treatments were administered over a period of 15 days, followed by a 16-day interval. After this gap, a specific enema therapy protocol known as Yoga Basti Vasti Karma was implemented, in conjunction with physiotherapy. Upon completion of the treatment regimen, the patient exhibited full functional recovery, showing significant improvement in motor strength and the resolution of neurological deficits. The combination of Panchakarma therapies and physiotherapy proves to be highly effective in managing Pakshaghat (hemiplegia). This case underscores the potential of Ayurvedic treatments in enhancing neuromuscular function and supports their inclusion in stroke rehabilitation strategies.