Treatment of Limb-girdle Muscular Dystrophy (LGMD) in Ayurveda

Abstract

Limb-girdle muscular dystrophy (LGMD) is a rare form of muscular dystrophy which gets inherited in further generations genetically. This condition can affect anyone irrespective of age and gender. Sometimes, if the condition remains undiagnosed or left untreated can lead to severe condition. It is important that one should not go for modern medicine system every time but should go for some conventional and holistic method of healing i.e. Ayurveda.

Introduction

Limb- girdle muscular dystrophy (LGMD) is referred to a collective group of diseases which leads to weakness in muscles of arms and legs. The muscles which get specifically affected are proximal muscles, muscles present in shoulders, upper arms, thighs and pelvic area. Severity and age of onset highly varies with the subtypes and can remain inconsistent in the same family. According to various studies, this is the fourth common cause for onset of muscle weakness in an individual. The prevalence of this condition varies from 1 in 14,5000 and may be vary to do in 123,000 individuals.

What are the causes of limb-girdle muscular dystrophy?

Generally, most of the various forms of muscular dystrophy are caused by gene mutations. Such genes are responsible for providing instructions for making proteins that are involved in repairing and maintaining healthy muscles. When some of the proteins that are formed from the gene assembling tend to form large protein complexes. This protein then maintains contraction and physical integrity of muscle tissues. Limb girdle muscular dystrophy can be classified on the basis of genetic causes and inheritance pattern. Type I include autosomal dominance genes and Type II include autosomal recessive genes. Many genes like CAP’N and DYSF are involved in calpainopathy and dysfulimopathy respectively.

What are the signs and symptoms of Limb- girdle muscular dystrophy?

Signs and symptoms may vary with the fact that at what age symptoms appear and the severity and speed of progression of disease. The most underlying features noticed in individuals with LGMD are atrophy and weakness in limb girdle muscles. Initially, a person might experience trouble walking because of weakness in leg and hip muscles. They find difficulty in getting up from a chair, toilet seat and in severe cases he or she may need assisting mobility devices. It becomes difficult for them to lift heavy objects due to the excess weakness in the shoulder area. So, this makes them unable to comb their hair and keep things on a high shelf. Some people even get affected with cardio-vascular diseases in cases of cardiomyopathy (weakness of heart muscles) or even conduction abnormalities.

What is the progression of Limb- girdle muscular dystrophy?

Though, progression can only be predicted if underlying genetic causes are known but it is difficult to understand the progression in each type of LGMD. As some forms of this condition can even lead to loss of walking ability permanently within a few years and may cause physical disability. According to some studies, LGMD in children usually progresses faster and can get more severe as compared to the condition in adults.

Diagnosis

Apart from the patient’s family history, various physical examinations are performed before clinical examinations. Initially, creatine kinase levels are analysed because this enzyme signifies damaged muscles. Secondly, electromyography and muscle biopsies are done for the structural analysis. But genetic testing and inheritance patterns are checked for the confirmation of the situation.

Ayurvedic treatment by Planet Ayurveda for Limb-girdle muscular dystrophy

Planet Ayurveda is providing beneficial herbal supplements for the better management of this condition which are 100% pure and natural.

Product Description

1. Ashwagandha Capsules

Ashwagandha capsules from Planet Ayurveda have been formulated from standardized root extracts of Withania somnifera. Ashwagandha is known as “Indian ginseng” because it has done wonders in increasing energy, strength, stamina and effectively relieving stress. This herb is a great anti-inflammatory agent therefore it reduces swelling. These capsules revitalize the body and curbs down fatigue and is an immune booster.

Dosage – 1-2 capsules two times a day with plain water after meals.

2. Musli Strength

Musli strength is a pure herbal formulation which contains safed musli (Chlorophytum borivilianum) and Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris). These herbs act synergistically to maintain the equilibrium between vitiated Vata and Pitta dosha. Musli strength manages general weakness and fatigue. This also supports dhatu functions and normalizes metabolism of tissues naturally.

Dosage – 1-2 capsules one or two times daily with plain water after the meals.

3. Shatavari Capsules

This is an amazing herbal product which contains shatavari (Asparagus racemosus). Shatavari capsules possess various medicinal properties i.e. rejuvenative, aphrodisiac, laxative, antispasmodic, antacid, anti-microbial and adaptogenic. This herb is an amazing immunomodulator, maintains healthy energy levels and boosts the body. This is also a tremendous detoxifying agent and a great antioxidants agent.

Dosage – 1-2 capsules twice daily with plain water.

4. Boswellia Curcumin

Boswellia curcumin from Planet Ayurveda has been formulated from standardized extracts of two medicinally important herbs i.e. Shallaki (Boswellia serrata) and Curcumin or haridra (Curcuma longa). These both herbs are great analgesic and anti-inflammatory agents which makes this herbal supplement beneficial in reducing swelling, pain and increasing mobility. Shallaki suppresses the growth of inflamed tissues and effectively prevents the breakdown of surrounding connective tissues. Curcumin works magically in relieving pain, wounds and sprains.

Dosage – 1 capsule two times daily after meals with plain water.

5. Brahmi Chyawanprash

Brahmi Chyawanprash is a beneficial Ayurvedic preparation containing numerous herbs like Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), dash moola, Bala (Sida cordifolia), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Bhumi amla (Phyllanthus niruri), Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), Nagarmotha (Cyperus rotundus), etc. All these herbs are useful in relieving fatigue, increasing stamina and providing soothing effects on nerves. This herbal supplement maintains the overall health and wellbeing of an individual.

Dosage – You are advised to consult a doctor for dosages.

Conclusion

Hereby from this discussion on limb-girdle muscular dystrophy this can be concluded that this can take worse transformations depending upon the severity and age of the onset of disease. But this can be managed naturally with Ayurveda and herbal supplements.

For more information about Limb-girdle Muscular Dystrophy, Visit website – www.planetayurveda.com