Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a progressive muscular disorder characterized by muscle weakness, motor delays, respiratory impairment, and if left untreated can cause loss of ambulation. It is the most typical X-linked disorder of muscular dystrophy primarily affecting male children, with proximal muscle weakness and calf hypertrophy in affected boys. In Siddha literature, DMD symptoms bears a resemblance to Thasaivatham (Muscular Dystrophy) and is explained by increased Vatham. Siddha is an ancient traditional therapy which believes in treating the disease from its root cause from within. Here, we present a case study of a ten-year-old male diagnosed with DMD. From the age of four and half, the patient had difficulty walking for long distances, needed support while climbing stairs, frequent falls, muscle spasms, and had lower extremity weakness on both sides with a reduced range of motion (ROM). Since last one month, the patient is having increased muscle pains & difficulty in breathing, is unable to balance while walking and has decreased strength, stamina, in both lower limbs. Gowers sign was positive which suggested DMD. The main objective of this case is to determine the role of Siddha therapy in management of DMD and is focused mostly on maintaining the range of motion (ROM), and to improve the quality of life of the child. The patient was treated with Siddha therapy utilizing stimulation of Varmam Maruthuvam by pressing (Amartthal) technique and Thokkanam (Massage manipulation) on OPD basis for 45 sessions in two phases. The treatment also included the support of physiotherapy in different sittings for three months for mobility assistance along with yogasanam. A diet designed specially for strengthening the muscles and stamina was advised for further improvement.His CPK-creatinine kinase was 9021 U/L (NV= 25 to 200U/L) which became 5200 U/L post-treatment. The assessment was done on North Star Ambulatory Assessment. He is able to walk long distances (>1km) with faster pase and is able to stand without support for 15 minutes on his own. There is lot of improvement in hand strength & increased range of motions in both legs measured by the goniometer. The child had no frequent falls and strength in lower limbs is seen better. DMD has no permanent cure but by adopting a multi-dimensional treatment approach, including Siddha therapy with dietary modifications, physiotherapy, family support and counselling of patient; the quality of life can be reinforced to much extent. This study presents Siddha therapy as a new treatment option to manage symptoms of DMD, install a confidence in patient and increased stamina to perform his daily life activities thus improving quality of life. Abbrevations: Duchenne’s Muscular dystrophy (DMD), Range of motion (ROM)
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