A CASE STUDY ON THE EFFECTIVE TREATMENT OF LYMPHATIC FILARIASIS WITH PANCHAKARMA THERAPY

Vollständiger Abstract

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Background: This study evaluates the efficacy and outcomes of effective Panchakarma treatment in Lymphatic Filariasis. While antiparasitic drugs help prevent disease transmission and treat early-stage infections, they have limited ability to reverse chronic disease-related damage. Method: The successful management of a 67-year-old female patient with lymphatic filariasis was considered significant enough to be documented. Lymphatic filariasis affects an estimated 14 million people worldwide, and evidence on Ayurvedic management remains limited. The patient presented with bilateral lower limb swelling causing difficulty in walking, low back pain radiating to the left leg, and left knee pain for two years. The patient’s condition was assessed through Anthropometric Assessment, Visual Analogue Scale for Pain Score-7, Oswestry Disability Index Score – 52%, Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) -22%. According to Ayurveda, the clinical manifestation was diagnosed under Shleepada and managed according to Ayurvedic principles, taking into account the stage of the disease. Panchakarma therapies including Avagahana, Utsadana, Sarvanga Abhyanga, Sarvanga Bashpa Swedana followed by Mridu Virechana were administered along with Shamana Aushadhis, Pre and Post Indian Manual Lymph Drainage (IMLD), Yoga Exercises and Pranayam for 21 days with Comprehensive Bandaging of both lower limbs with cotton cloth for 8-10 hrs and follow-up of 3 months. Results: Evident improvement in bilateral lower limb anthropometric measurements was noted. Visual Analogue Scale Score decreased to 2, Oswestry Disability Index Score decreased to 32%, KOOS Score improved to -47%. Conclusion: This case study underscores Ayurveda’s potential as a promising alternative approach for managing Lymphatic Filariasis.