Abstract

ROLE OF PANCHAKARMA IN VAMAJA PAKSAGHATA WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO ACUTE ISCHEMIC STROKE: A CASE REPORT

Dr. P. Leela Prasanthi*, Dr. D. Venkata Ravi Krishna

Abstract

Pakṣāghāta, one of the Nānātmaja Vāta-vikāras described under Vātavyādhi, is characterized by weakness or paralysis affecting one side of the body. It results from the vitiation of Vāta doṣa due to Mārgāvarodha and Dhātukṣaya. In modern parlance, it can be correlated with hemiplegia, a major cause of long-term disability worldwide. A 36-year-old female presented with weakness of the left upper and lower limb, deviation of the angle of the mouth towards the right side, and inability to walk for 20 days. Based on the clinical presentation, the condition was diagnosed as Vāmaja Pakṣāghāta. The patient was treated with Abhyaṅga, Nāḍī Sveda, Kukkuṭāṇḍa Pinda Sveda, Śaṣṭika Śāli Piṇḍa Sveda, and Mātrā Basti with Nirguṇḍī Taila for 20 days. Following the intervention, marked clinical improvement was observed, as evidenced by regained ability to walk, restoration of facial symmetry, and improved muscle strength. This case highlights the potential role of Ayurvedic management in promoting functional recovery in Vāmaja Pakṣāghāta following acute ischemic stroke.

Keywords: Pakṣāghāta, Acute Ischemic Stroke, Abhyaṅga, Piṇḍa Sveda, Mātrā Basti.