Diffuse Axonal Injury is one of the most serious types of brain damage that can occur as a result of non-missile head injury. Though DAI is a histological diagnosis, it can be clinically defined as a state of unconsciousness lasting at least 6 hours after traumatic brain injury, excluding cases of swelling or ischemic brain lesions.
Ayushakti, one of the leading and most trusted ayurvedic health centres recently treated a 39-year-old male patient who was in a road traffic accident and suffered a traumatic brain injury and was diagnosed with Diffuse Axonal Injury (DAI). The most important factor in determining morbidity and mortality in traumatic brain injury is DAI. DAI causes behavioural, physical, and cognitive changes that affect a patient’s social and personal life, as well as the quality of life of patients and their families.
The patient came to Ayushakti Clinic in January 2020 after being involved in a car accident in October 2018. He was diagnosed with DAI (Diffuse Axonal Injury) after experiencing severe stiffness and spasticity in all four limbs. He was also bedridden and unable to perform daily tasks. He was admitted to the hospital and received post-recovery care. In September 2019, he was admitted for a lumbar puncture trial of Baclofen injection and Physiotherapy. After a thorough examination, it was discovered that he has Dosha Dushti – Vata predominately, Dhatu Dushti – Asthi and Majja first, then Rakta- Mansa, and Srotas of Majja and Rakta vaha.
He was then treated with Siddha massage and dry pinda sweda, regular massage and steam, matra basti, shiro pichu, and Marma points therapy.
Marma Therapy is the precise art of touching a person in precisely the right place for the purpose of healing. Marma are gateways to the body’s innate intelligence, allowing access to health and well-being. Siddha massage (Specific herbal powder massage) and Dry Pinda sweda (Application of lukewarm bolus of herbs) open blocked channels within. Regular massage and steam increases blood circulation, which reduces inflammatory changes. Matra Basti (rectum oil enema) and Shiro pichu (overhead cotton soaked in medicated oil/ghee) were also administered to strengthen nervous tissue and balance Vata Dosha.
There was a significant improvement in appetite and the patient could feel the urge to urinate and defecate during the first three months of treatment. His rage also began to fade, as did their episodes of extreme outbursts and joint stiffness and spasticity. During treatment, the patient experienced a convulsion and the treatment was halted.
After two years, his body had improved and he could stand and walk with the assistance of a walker. His knees are in better shape, with only minor spasticity remaining, and he can stand with the assistance of a bamboo bar and walk for a few minutes.
Speaking on this, Dr. Smita Naram, Ayurveda Practitioner and Co-Founder of Ayushakti said, “We are thankful to the European Journal of Applied Science for giving us this acknowledgment and publishing our case study in their prestigious journal. It’s wonderful to see our ancient Ayurvedic practises becoming known around the world, putting India on the map for its medicines and history.”
