A Case Study on Ayurvedic Management of Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)

Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) is the second leading genetic disorder inherited in autosomal recessive pattern due to absence of SMN1 gene characterized by loss of motor neurons and progressive muscle wasting, often leading to dependent life and decreased life span. In Ayurveda, SMA can be considered as a type of janma jaata Vata vikara as it has been mentioned that: "Tatra va gati gandhanayoriti vata" that means all the movements of the body are controlled by vata. In Vata vyadhi Lakshanas, few symptoms like Anganam sosha (Atrophy or emaciation of limbs), Sankocha (Contraction), Kanja, Pangulya, Kubjatva (Lameness of hands and feet, hunch-back and shortness), are considered, few of which are also observed in the Spinal Muscular Atrophy. A 2yrs female patient was admitted in our I.P.D who was a known case of SMA II presented with complaints of inability in sitting for longer time without support, unable to stand and walk even with support. Through Ayurvedic principles we have treated adopting various vata hara treatment modalities & also with few palliative treatments as per the need in view of enhancing the quality living.