Peripheral Sensory Loss and Thermanaesthesia: A Case of Recovery with Ayurvedic Marma Chikitsa

A Unique Case of Peripheral Sensory Loss Managed with Ayurveda:

In December 2009, a 55-year-old gentleman, Mr. Mohan, visited our center (S.P.K.V.C.C) seeking relief from troubling neurological symptoms. He was suffering from peripheral sensory loss in the form of numbness and thermanaesthesia (inability to sense heat/temperature) over the left side of his body. This was associated with weakness in the right upper and lower limbs and mild spinal deformity at the T12 - L1 level.

Medical History:

Mr. Mohan had a complex history:

• In 1999, he suffered a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) in New Delhi, leading to right-sided hemiplegia.
• Just three days later, he underwent surgery for a perforated duodenal ulcer.
• In 2003, he required surgical correction for C5 - C6 vertebral subluxation.

When he came to us, he complained of:

• Weakness in the right leg, little finger, and ring finger.
• Numbness and loss of temperature sensation over the left side of his body, especially the flank, abdomen, thigh, leg, and foot.
• Difficulty walking with a half-circumduction, high-stepped gait.
• Pain and tenderness near the T12 - L1 spine, with visible deformity and mild kyphosis.

Ayurvedic Treatment Approach:

Considering his case, a multi-modal Ayurvedic & Marma therapy protocol was planned, focusing on both spinal correction and neurological rejuvenation.

The therapies included:

• Marma Chikitsa: Manipulation of vital points and vertebral column, working on Nabhi, Lohitaksha, Urvi, Ani, Indrabasti, Gulpha, Talahridaya, Kshipra, Parshva, and Brhati marmas.
• Susumna Vasti (localized basti): Applied at T12 - L1 and L4 - S1 regions.
• Masha Pinda Svedam: A form of sweat inducing & rejuvenating therapy done in two sessions of 10 days each, with a month’s gap.

Progress During Treatment:

• By the 3rd sitting, his back stiffness and left leg rigidity reduced noticeably.
• By the 6th sitting, sensations of pain and pressure began to return to the affected areas.
• By the 8th sitting, the previously protruded T12 vertebra became aligned with surrounding spines, showing remarkable spinal correction.
• On the 10th day, he regained some touch sensation and his gait improved significantly, with only mild limping (due to leg length discrepancy).
• After a one-month break, his improvements in touch, pain, and pressure sensation were maintained, though the thermanaesthesia persisted.
• In the second session, perception of heat fluctuated is sometimes present & sometimes absent showing gradual but inconsistent recovery in temperature sensation.

Outcome & Follow-Up:

By the end of treatment, Mr. Mohan reported 80% relief from his symptoms. His spinal deformity reduced, walking improved, and sensory perceptions of touch, pressure, and pain were largely restored. However, thermanaesthesia (heat sensation loss) remained his only major challenge.

To further improve nerve strength and conduction, he was prescribed rejuvenative herbal medicines such as:

• Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha)
• Mucuna pruriens (Kapikacchu)
• Apium graveolens (Ajmoda)

Conclusion:

This case highlights how Ayurvedic therapies like Marma Chikitsa, Susumna Vasti, and Swedana can significantly help in conditions of neurological weakness, spinal deformities, and peripheral sensory loss. While thermanaesthesia was only partially relieved, Mr. Mohan experienced a notable return of functions and an improved quality of life.