Integrative Ayurveda approach to manage Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy (DCM)-A Case Report

Abstract

Cervical myelopathy involves compression of spinal cord caused by degenerative process of cervical vertebrae or due to trauma. Cervical myelopathy is characterized by pain, stiffness in cervical region and tingling sensation in both upper and lower limb, clumsiness of hands, weakness and difficulty in handling small objects. Available treatment modalities are NSAID’s, Steroids, physiotherapy and cervical support for pain management. Surgery is necessary if conservative treatment fails. In Ayurveda some Para surgical modalities are used to treat this condition like Agnikarma and Raktamokshan along with Shaman Aushadhi. In this case study a 39 years old male patient came to outdoor patient department with complaints of neck pain, neck stiffness and tingling sensation in upper limbs while heaviness and weakness in both upper and lower limbs for last 4 months and especially tingling of upper limb during extension of neck. Patient have alleged history of weight fallen on head in flexed position of neck before 4 months. This case was managed with 4 sittings of Agnikarma with 7 days interval between each sitting and 2 sittings of wet cupping with 15 days interval along with Rasna Saptak Kwath, Erandamula Kwatha, Navjivan Rasa, Ashwagandha Arishta, Karpasasthyadi Taila for 3 months. Patient got relief from symptoms as well as improved routine life with increased in spinal canal diameter at C3-C4 level. This single case demonstrates that TCM can be managed by Ayurveda para surgical procedures along with adjuvant drugs.