Abstract

Dr. Shravankumar C. Madli*, Dr. Vijaymahantesh Hugar, Dr. Varsha Kulkarni, Dr. Rajesh S.

ABSTRACT

Cauda equina syndrome (CES) is a rare yet severe neurological disorder caused by compression of the lumbosacral nerve roots, which can lead to irreversible motor, sensory, and autonomic dysfunction if not managed promptly. Intervertebral disc prolapse is the most common etiological factor; however, other causes such as spinal tumors, trauma, infections, epidural hematoma, and rare malignancies including germinal center B-cell type lymphomas have also been reported. Conventional management primarily involves emergency surgical decompression, which is often expensive and associated with variable outcomes and postoperative complications. From an Ayurvedic perspective, the clinical features of Cauda Equina Syndrome can be correlated with Pangu Vata, Asthimajjagata Vata, and Katigraha, conditions characterized by Vata vitiation affecting the Asthi and Majja dhatus and resulting in motor weakness, sensory impairment, pain, and dysfunction of bladder and bowel control. Hence, Panchakarma therapies along with Shamana Chikitsa are indicated based on the principles of Vatavyadhi and Lakshanika Chikitsa. Case History: A 24-year-old male patient, clinically diagnosed with Cauda Equina Syndrome, presented with bilateral lower limb weakness and numbness, difficulty and afraid of falling while walking without support, low back pain, urinary incontinence, and occasional bowel incontinence. Methodology: Treatment was adopted based on the principles of Vatavyadhi Chikitsa and symptom-oriented management. The intervention protocol included Abhyanga, Kukkutanda Sweda, Shashtikashali Pinda Sweda, Matra Basti, and supportive Shamana Chikitsa. Results And Conclusion: Assessment of subjective and objective parameters before and after treatment revealed significant improvement in motor strength, sensory perception, pain reduction, ambulation without support, and significant improved performance in daily activities. No adverse effects were observed during the treatment period. The findings suggest that Ayurvedic interventions, particularly Kukkutanda Sweda, Shashtikashali Pinda Sweda, and Vasti therapy, may provide a safe, effective, and economical conservative therapeutic approach for improving functional outcomes in patients with Cauda Equina Syndrome.