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Dr Bhanu K Bhakhri

"The Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research (JCDR) has been in operation since almost a decade. It has contributed a huge number of peer reviewed articles, across a spectrum of medical disciplines, to the medical literature.
Its wide based indexing and open access publications attracts many authors as well as readers
For authors, the manuscripts can be uploaded online through an easily navigable portal, on other hand, reviewers appreciate the systematic handling of all manuscripts. The way JCDR has emerged as an effective medium for publishing wide array of observations in Indian context, I wish the editorial team success in their endeavour"



Dr Bhanu K Bhakhri
Faculty, Pediatric Medicine
Super Speciality Paediatric Hospital and Post Graduate Teaching Institute, Noida
On Sep 2018




Dr Mohan Z Mani

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I wish all success to your journal and look forward to sending you any suitable similar article in future"



Dr Mohan Z Mani,
Professor & Head,
Department of Dematolgy,
Believers Church Medical College,
Thiruvalla, Kerala
On Sep 2018




Prof. Somashekhar Nimbalkar

"Over the last few years, we have published our research regularly in Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research. Having published in more than 20 high impact journals over the last five years including several high impact ones and reviewing articles for even more journals across my fields of interest, we value our published work in JCDR for their high standards in publishing scientific articles. The ease of submission, the rapid reviews in under a month, the high quality of their reviewers and keen attention to the final process of proofs and publication, ensure that there are no mistakes in the final article. We have been asked clarifications on several occasions and have been happy to provide them and it exemplifies the commitment to quality of the team at JCDR."



Prof. Somashekhar Nimbalkar
Head, Department of Pediatrics, Pramukhswami Medical College, Karamsad
Chairman, Research Group, Charutar Arogya Mandal, Karamsad
National Joint Coordinator - Advanced IAP NNF NRP Program
Ex-Member, Governing Body, National Neonatology Forum, New Delhi
Ex-President - National Neonatology Forum Gujarat State Chapter
Department of Pediatrics, Pramukhswami Medical College, Karamsad, Anand, Gujarat.
On Sep 2018




Dr. Kalyani R

"Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research is at present a well-known Indian originated scientific journal which started with a humble beginning. I have been associated with this journal since many years. I appreciate the Editor, Dr. Hemant Jain, for his constant effort in bringing up this journal to the present status right from the scratch. The journal is multidisciplinary. It encourages in publishing the scientific articles from postgraduates and also the beginners who start their career. At the same time the journal also caters for the high quality articles from specialty and super-specialty researchers. Hence it provides a platform for the scientist and researchers to publish. The other aspect of it is, the readers get the information regarding the most recent developments in science which can be used for teaching, research, treating patients and to some extent take preventive measures against certain diseases. The journal is contributing immensely to the society at national and international level."



Dr Kalyani R
Professor and Head
Department of Pathology
Sri Devaraj Urs Medical College
Sri Devaraj Urs Academy of Higher Education and Research , Kolar, Karnataka
On Sep 2018




Dr. Saumya Navit

"As a peer-reviewed journal, the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research provides an opportunity to researchers, scientists and budding professionals to explore the developments in the field of medicine and dentistry and their varied specialities, thus extending our view on biological diversities of living species in relation to medicine.
‘Knowledge is treasure of a wise man.’ The free access of this journal provides an immense scope of learning for the both the old and the young in field of medicine and dentistry as well. The multidisciplinary nature of the journal makes it a better platform to absorb all that is being researched and developed. The publication process is systematic and professional. Online submission, publication and peer reviewing makes it a user-friendly journal.
As an experienced dentist and an academician, I proudly recommend this journal to the dental fraternity as a good quality open access platform for rapid communication of their cutting-edge research progress and discovery.
I wish JCDR a great success and I hope that journal will soar higher with the passing time."



Dr Saumya Navit
Professor and Head
Department of Pediatric Dentistry
Saraswati Dental College
Lucknow
On Sep 2018




Dr. Arunava Biswas

"My sincere attachment with JCDR as an author as well as reviewer is a learning experience . Their systematic approach in publication of article in various categories is really praiseworthy.
Their prompt and timely response to review's query and the manner in which they have set the reviewing process helps in extracting the best possible scientific writings for publication.
It's a honour and pride to be a part of the JCDR team. My very best wishes to JCDR and hope it will sparkle up above the sky as a high indexed journal in near future."



Dr. Arunava Biswas
MD, DM (Clinical Pharmacology)
Assistant Professor
Department of Pharmacology
Calcutta National Medical College & Hospital , Kolkata




Dr. C.S. Ramesh Babu
" Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research (JCDR) is a multi-specialty medical and dental journal publishing high quality research articles in almost all branches of medicine. The quality of printing of figures and tables is excellent and comparable to any International journal. An added advantage is nominal publication charges and monthly issue of the journal and more chances of an article being accepted for publication. Moreover being a multi-specialty journal an article concerning a particular specialty has a wider reach of readers of other related specialties also. As an author and reviewer for several years I find this Journal most suitable and highly recommend this Journal."
Best regards,
C.S. Ramesh Babu,
Associate Professor of Anatomy,
Muzaffarnagar Medical College,
Muzaffarnagar.
On Aug 2018




Dr. Arundhathi. S
"Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research (JCDR) is a reputed peer reviewed journal and is constantly involved in publishing high quality research articles related to medicine. Its been a great pleasure to be associated with this esteemed journal as a reviewer and as an author for a couple of years. The editorial board consists of many dedicated and reputed experts as its members and they are doing an appreciable work in guiding budding researchers. JCDR is doing a commendable job in scientific research by promoting excellent quality research & review articles and case reports & series. The reviewers provide appropriate suggestions that improve the quality of articles. I strongly recommend my fraternity to encourage JCDR by contributing their valuable research work in this widely accepted, user friendly journal. I hope my collaboration with JCDR will continue for a long time".



Dr. Arundhathi. S
MBBS, MD (Pathology),
Sanjay Gandhi institute of trauma and orthopedics,
Bengaluru.
On Aug 2018




Dr. Mamta Gupta,
"It gives me great pleasure to be associated with JCDR, since last 2-3 years. Since then I have authored, co-authored and reviewed about 25 articles in JCDR. I thank JCDR for giving me an opportunity to improve my own skills as an author and a reviewer.
It 's a multispecialty journal, publishing high quality articles. It gives a platform to the authors to publish their research work which can be available for everyone across the globe to read. The best thing about JCDR is that the full articles of all medical specialties are available as pdf/html for reading free of cost or without institutional subscription, which is not there for other journals. For those who have problem in writing manuscript or do statistical work, JCDR comes for their rescue.
The journal has a monthly publication and the articles are published quite fast. In time compared to other journals. The on-line first publication is also a great advantage and facility to review one's own articles before going to print. The response to any query and permission if required, is quite fast; this is quite commendable. I have a very good experience about seeking quick permission for quoting a photograph (Fig.) from a JCDR article for my chapter authored in an E book. I never thought it would be so easy. No hassles.
Reviewing articles is no less a pain staking process and requires in depth perception, knowledge about the topic for review. It requires time and concentration, yet I enjoy doing it. The JCDR website especially for the reviewers is quite user friendly. My suggestions for improving the journal is, more strict review process, so that only high quality articles are published. I find a a good number of articles in Obst. Gynae, hence, a new journal for this specialty titled JCDR-OG can be started. May be a bimonthly or quarterly publication to begin with. Only selected articles should find a place in it.
An yearly reward for the best article authored can also incentivize the authors. Though the process of finding the best article will be not be very easy. I do not know how reviewing process can be improved. If an article is being reviewed by two reviewers, then opinion of one can be communicated to the other or the final opinion of the editor can be communicated to the reviewer if requested for. This will help one’s reviewing skills.
My best wishes to Dr. Hemant Jain and all the editorial staff of JCDR for their untiring efforts to bring out this journal. I strongly recommend medical fraternity to publish their valuable research work in this esteemed journal, JCDR".



Dr. Mamta Gupta
Consultant
(Ex HOD Obs &Gynae, Hindu Rao Hospital and associated NDMC Medical College, Delhi)
Aug 2018




Dr. Rajendra Kumar Ghritlaharey

"I wish to thank Dr. Hemant Jain, Editor-in-Chief Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research (JCDR), for asking me to write up few words.
Writing is the representation of language in a textual medium i e; into the words and sentences on paper. Quality medical manuscript writing in particular, demands not only a high-quality research, but also requires accurate and concise communication of findings and conclusions, with adherence to particular journal guidelines. In medical field whether working in teaching, private, or in corporate institution, everyone wants to excel in his / her own field and get recognised by making manuscripts publication.


Authors are the souls of any journal, and deserve much respect. To publish a journal manuscripts are needed from authors. Authors have a great responsibility for producing facts of their work in terms of number and results truthfully and an individual honesty is expected from authors in this regards. Both ways its true "No authors-No manuscripts-No journals" and "No journals–No manuscripts–No authors". Reviewing a manuscript is also a very responsible and important task of any peer-reviewed journal and to be taken seriously. It needs knowledge on the subject, sincerity, honesty and determination. Although the process of reviewing a manuscript is a time consuming task butit is expected to give one's best remarks within the time frame of the journal.
Salient features of the JCDR: It is a biomedical, multidisciplinary (including all medical and dental specialities), e-journal, with wide scope and extensive author support. At the same time, a free text of manuscript is available in HTML and PDF format. There is fast growing authorship and readership with JCDR as this can be judged by the number of articles published in it i e; in Feb 2007 of its first issue, it contained 5 articles only, and now in its recent volume published in April 2011, it contained 67 manuscripts. This e-journal is fulfilling the commitments and objectives sincerely, (as stated by Editor-in-chief in his preface to first edition) i e; to encourage physicians through the internet, especially from the developing countries who witness a spectrum of disease and acquire a wealth of knowledge to publish their experiences to benefit the medical community in patients care. I also feel that many of us have work of substance, newer ideas, adequate clinical materials but poor in medical writing and hesitation to submit the work and need help. JCDR provides authors help in this regards.
Timely publication of journal: Publication of manuscripts and bringing out the issue in time is one of the positive aspects of JCDR and is possible with strong support team in terms of peer reviewers, proof reading, language check, computer operators, etc. This is one of the great reasons for authors to submit their work with JCDR. Another best part of JCDR is "Online first Publications" facilities available for the authors. This facility not only provides the prompt publications of the manuscripts but at the same time also early availability of the manuscripts for the readers.
Indexation and online availability: Indexation transforms the journal in some sense from its local ownership to the worldwide professional community and to the public.JCDR is indexed with Embase & EMbiology, Google Scholar, Index Copernicus, Chemical Abstracts Service, Journal seek Database, Indian Science Abstracts, to name few of them. Manuscriptspublished in JCDR are available on major search engines ie; google, yahoo, msn.
In the era of fast growing newer technologies, and in computer and internet friendly environment the manuscripts preparation, submission, review, revision, etc and all can be done and checked with a click from all corer of the world, at any time. Of course there is always a scope for improvement in every field and none is perfect. To progress, one needs to identify the areas of one's weakness and to strengthen them.
It is well said that "happy beginning is half done" and it fits perfectly with JCDR. It has grown considerably and I feel it has already grown up from its infancy to adolescence, achieving the status of standard online e-journal form Indian continent since its inception in Feb 2007. This had been made possible due to the efforts and the hard work put in it. The way the JCDR is improving with every new volume, with good quality original manuscripts, makes it a quality journal for readers. I must thank and congratulate Dr Hemant Jain, Editor-in-Chief JCDR and his team for their sincere efforts, dedication, and determination for making JCDR a fast growing journal.
Every one of us: authors, reviewers, editors, and publisher are responsible for enhancing the stature of the journal. I wish for a great success for JCDR."



Thanking you
With sincere regards
Dr. Rajendra Kumar Ghritlaharey, M.S., M. Ch., FAIS
Associate Professor,
Department of Paediatric Surgery, Gandhi Medical College & Associated
Kamla Nehru & Hamidia Hospitals Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462 001 (India)
E-mail: drrajendrak1@rediffmail.com
On May 11,2011




Dr. Shankar P.R.

"On looking back through my Gmail archives after being requested by the journal to write a short editorial about my experiences of publishing with the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research (JCDR), I came across an e-mail from Dr. Hemant Jain, Editor, in March 2007, which introduced the new electronic journal. The main features of the journal which were outlined in the e-mail were extensive author support, cash rewards, the peer review process, and other salient features of the journal.
Over a span of over four years, we (I and my colleagues) have published around 25 articles in the journal. In this editorial, I plan to briefly discuss my experiences of publishing with JCDR and the strengths of the journal and to finally address the areas for improvement.
My experiences of publishing with JCDR: Overall, my experiences of publishing withJCDR have been positive. The best point about the journal is that it responds to queries from the author. This may seem to be simple and not too much to ask for, but unfortunately, many journals in the subcontinent and from many developing countries do not respond or they respond with a long delay to the queries from the authors 1. The reasons could be many, including lack of optimal secretarial and other support. Another problem with many journals is the slowness of the review process. Editorial processing and peer review can take anywhere between a year to two years with some journals. Also, some journals do not keep the contributors informed about the progress of the review process. Due to the long review process, the articles can lose their relevance and topicality. A major benefit with JCDR is the timeliness and promptness of its response. In Dr Jain's e-mail which was sent to me in 2007, before the introduction of the Pre-publishing system, he had stated that he had received my submission and that he would get back to me within seven days and he did!
Most of the manuscripts are published within 3 to 4 months of their submission if they are found to be suitable after the review process. JCDR is published bimonthly and the accepted articles were usually published in the next issue. Recently, due to the increased volume of the submissions, the review process has become slower and it ?? Section can take from 4 to 6 months for the articles to be reviewed. The journal has an extensive author support system and it has recently introduced a paid expedited review process. The journal also mentions the average time for processing the manuscript under different submission systems - regular submission and expedited review.
Strengths of the journal: The journal has an online first facility in which the accepted manuscripts may be published on the website before being included in a regular issue of the journal. This cuts down the time between their acceptance and the publication. The journal is indexed in many databases, though not in PubMed. The editorial board should now take steps to index the journal in PubMed. The journal has a system of notifying readers through e-mail when a new issue is released. Also, the articles are available in both the HTML and the PDF formats. I especially like the new and colorful page format of the journal. Also, the access statistics of the articles are available. The prepublication and the manuscript tracking system are also helpful for the authors.
Areas for improvement: In certain cases, I felt that the peer review process of the manuscripts was not up to international standards and that it should be strengthened. Also, the number of manuscripts in an issue is high and it may be difficult for readers to go through all of them. The journal can consider tightening of the peer review process and increasing the quality standards for the acceptance of the manuscripts. I faced occasional problems with the online manuscript submission (Pre-publishing) system, which have to be addressed.
Overall, the publishing process with JCDR has been smooth, quick and relatively hassle free and I can recommend other authors to consider the journal as an outlet for their work."



Dr. P. Ravi Shankar
KIST Medical College, P.O. Box 14142, Kathmandu, Nepal.
E-mail: ravi.dr.shankar@gmail.com
On April 2011

Important Notice

Original article / research
Year : 2024 | Month : May | Volume : 18 | Issue : 5 | Page : SE01 - SE05 Full Version

Ayurvedic Management of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy in Children: A Narrative Review

Published: May 1, 2024 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.7860/JCDR/2024/67780.19412

Shruti Prakash Kapatkar, Renu B Rathi, Swecha Choudhary

1. Postgraduate Scholar, Department of Kaumarbhritya, Mahatma Gandhi Ayurved College, Hospital and Research Centre, Salod, Wardha, Maharashtra, India. 2. Professor and Head, Department of Kaumarbhritya, Mahatma Gandhi Ayurved College, Hospital and Research Centre, Salod, Wardha, Maharashtra, India. 3. Postgraduate Scholar, Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences, Wardha, Maharashtra, India.

Correspondence Address :
Dr. Shruti Prakash Kapatkar,
Postgraduate Scholar, Department of Kaumarbhritya, Mahatma Gandhi Ayurved College, Hospital and Research Centre, Salod, Wardha-442001, Maharashtra, India.
E-mail: shrutikapatkar50@gmail.com

Abstract

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is the most common primary myopathy of children. There are many muscular diseases in children which are inherited through generations. All those are known as congenital myopathy. This disease is an X-linked recessive disorder produced by the abnormality of the gene Xp21. It is a severe condition that poses a life-threatening risk and significantly reduces a patient’s lifespan. It is characterised by progressive symmetrical muscular weakness, with proximal muscles being more affected than distal ones. Additionally, individuals with DMD often exhibit pseudohypertrophy of the calf muscles. The compilation of data from classical Ayurvedic texts contributes to a holistic understanding of potential interventions, aiming to improve patient quality of life and prevent contractures. The study is crucial in bridging traditional and contemporary healthcare practices, offering valuable insights for clinicians and the wider medical community in addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by DMD. This research underscores the need for an integrative and comprehensive approach to enhance therapeutic strategies for this prevalent X-linked recessive disorder. In pursuit of this objective, concerted efforts have been directed towards raising awareness among both the general public and the medical community. Furthermore, the review delves into the exploration of various Panchakarma treatments, a traditional therapeutic approach rooted in Ayurveda. By consolidating and synthesising data derived from classical Ayurvedic texts pertaining to DMD, this review seeks to provide a holistic understanding of potential interventions. The goal is to contribute to the advancement of therapeutic strategies that can ameliorate the impact of DMD on patients’ lives, fostering a more comprehensive and integrated approach to managing this challenging condition.

Keywords

Adibala-pravrutta vyadhi, Chromosomal disorder, Congenital myopathy, Dystrophin, Maamsadhatu shosha, Muscular diseases

Introduction
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is a neuromuscular disease that affects children. It is a distinctive and highly prevalent childhood muscular dystrophy; it represents one of the most widespread and serious conditions within this category (1). It is an unusual inherited musculoskeletal condition that manifests clinically as gradual muscular weakness because the muscle lacks the protein dystrophin, which eventually takes the role of fibrosis and fat accumulation.

The disease was given that name in 1860 in honour of a French neurologist named Guillaume Benjamin Amand Duchenne (2),(3),(4),(5). DMD is a genetic disorder affecting boys due to mutations in the dystrophin gene on the X chromosome, with an incidence of 1 in 3,600 live-born infant boys (6). Early symptoms are having trouble in climbing stairs. The person puts his hands on the next step to help raise himself up and leans against a wall or railing for support. This is followed by a waddling gait with compensatory lumbar lordosis. Beginning at age 10, it is the most prevalent and severe type of muscular dystrophy (7).

Boys between the ages of 3 and 5 are affected and exhibit proximal muscular weakness and calf enlargement (8). DMD features are distinct and have a relatively high rate of transmutation. Other clinical characteristics include loss of muscle coordination, the onset of contractures, the progression of scoliosis, reduced walking, cardiomyopathy, poor lung function, and confusion. The history and typical clinical findings are the primary basis of the diagnosis. Characteristics in addition to creatinine phosphokinase, which rises from a normal range of less than 500 IU/L to thousands (9).

In Ayurveda, DMD is not directly associated with any specific disease entity. Instead, its development is explained through the concept of Adibalapravritta Vyadhi (inherited diseases), Shukra-shonita Dosha (10) (gametes), Bijabhagavayay Dushtijanya (11) Vyadhi (genetic disorder), and takes Sthanasamshraya (10) (situated) primarily in Mamsa Dhatu (muscle tissue), vitiation of Vata leads to Mamsa- dhatvagni and Medodhatvagni (11). Impairment, which results in the buildup of aberrant tissue called Meda Dhatu (adipose tissue) in place of Mamsa Dhatu and the formation of dysfunctional Mamsa Dhatu. This impaired Mamsa Dhatu is unable to carry out Mamsa Dhatu’s Prakrita Karma that is Sharira Pushti, Meda Dhatu Pushti, and shows symptoms of Mamsa Dhatu Kshaya (decreased muscle tissue) Gatranam Sadanam (paresthesia), Dhamni Shaithilya (loose and flabby arteries), Aksha Glani (debility of the sense organs), Sandhi Vedana (pain in the joints), Sphik Griva Shushyata (muscle wasting in hip and cervical region) (10).

The incorrect synthesis of Progressive tissues Uttarottara Dhatu (follow-up progressive tissues) (12) is brought on by dysfunctional Dhatwagni (metabolic enzymes). Additionally, this causes the production of Ama (undigested metabolic product), Sanga Srotodushti, and Vimarga Gamana of Vata. As a result, Mamsa Dhatu is depleted, and the damaged muscle fibres gradually deteriorate and die. DMD may fall under the Paurasadini Jaataharini category (where the diseased child passes away before the age of 16) (13) depending on how it manifests itself. In the current medical system, steroids are recommended because there is no lasting treatment for this illness. Due to their rapidly deteriorating heart muscles these patients have a relatively short lifespan (14). Ayurveda and other conventional pathies have proven the treatment for curing the disease till date (15). Hence, to enhance the quality of life of DMD patients and for prevention of contractures of muscles i.e., early detoriation can be prevented by Panchakarma protocol, yoga, physiotherapy, occupational therapy along with vasa therapy (ball exercise), and Pathya-Apathya. This article is aimed at increasing awareness among people and doctor community regarding treatment of DMD using various therapies to improve both quality of life of patient and reduce the likelihood of complications that could be fatal.

Types of Muscular Dystrophy

According to Ayurveda this disease comes under Adhibala Pravrutta Vyadhi (inheritance disease) which occurs by Bheeja Bagahaavyava Dusti (chromosomal disability), which causes Vata Prakopa, takes Sthana Samshraya (situated) in Mamsa, and the Medo Dhatu vitiates and depletes them. There are various types of Muscular Dystrophies- Detailed description of types of DMD is explained in (Table/Fig 1) (16).

In Ayurveda, DMD is not directly associated with any specific disease entity. Instead, its development is explained through the concept of Adibalapravritta Vyadhi. This perspective attributes the condition to Beejadusti (genetic factors) and Aatma Karma (individual actions), leading to an imbalance in Mamsavahastrotas (muscular tissue channels) and impairment of Dhatvagni (tissue metabolism). DMD is viewed as an imbalance of Vatadosha (biological air element), Saptadhatu (seven bodily tissues crucial for formation of functional and structural components up to tissue metabolism levels), and Ojas (vital essence), considering its progressive degeneration and systemic involvement. The primary manifestation is Chestahani (decreased mobility), indicating a decline in Chalaguna (biological mobility factor). Recent advancements in both supportive and medical fields are focused on addressing multi-systemic complications, thereby enhancing quality of life, and extending life expectancy for those with DMD as depicted in (Table/Fig 2) (17).

Nidan Panchaka of DMD According to Ayurveda

In the context of disease analysis, Nidan Panchaka entails five essential components. Firstly, “Hetu” identifies the cause or root factor contributing to the disease. Secondly, “Purvarupa” highlights the early symptoms or indicators that precede the full manifestation of the illness. Thirdly, “Rupa” describes the characteristic features and presentation of the disease, aiding in its recognition and diagnosis. Fourthly, “Upshaya” refers to relieving factors, guiding therapeutic strategies. Lastly, “Samprapti” elucidates the progression and course of the disease, including its natural history and potential complications. Together, these components form a comprehensive framework for understanding, diagnosing, and managing diseases in clinical practice. Hence, these five components are described as follows:

Nidan/Hetu (causative factors): The pathological condition manifests as a partial vitiation observed either in Shukra, the reproductive tissue, or Shonita, the blood component, within the physiological framework. This aberration is further characterised by a specific defect in the Beejabhag or Beejabhagavaya, indicative of a chromosomal abnormality specifically localised on the Xp21 chromosome. Moreover, the intricacies of this defect extend into the Matruj Bhava, underscoring the involvement of maternal factors, as the genesis of Mamsa, the muscular tissue, is intricately linked with these maternal influences (18),(19).

Purvarupa: The identification of a developing movement deficit in a child’s developmental trajectory serves as a key indicator of the vitiation of Vata, a fundamental concept in Ayurveda highlighting the imbalance in the bodily Vata Dosha and Kapha elements. Furthermore, the compromise in metabolic functions is intricately linked to Pitta Dushti, denoting an imbalance in the Agni and Jala elements within the physiological framework. In a parallel context, the erosion of the quality characterised by “Sthiratva,” emphasising stability and steadfastness, is a consequential outcome attributed to the influence of Kapha Dushti, underscoring an imbalance in the Pruthvi and Jala elements in the body (20).

Roop (characteristic features):Rupa” includes the characteristic features and presentation of the disease (signs and symptoms) and diagnosis.

Signs and symptoms of DMD: According to modern science (8), the first signs of DMD usually show between the ages of 3 and 5.

Associated symptoms- e.g., cardiomyopathy and minor mental retardation or learning difficulties are found in nearly all cases, albeit to varying degrees of severity, and are not always related to the severity of muscular disease.

Investigations Required for the Diagnosis of DMD (21)

a) Genetic tests: Examining a blood sample for the faulty gene associated (X-gene) with DMD.

b) Blood tests: Creatine phosphokinase (CPK) spills into the blood from weak or injured muscles.

c) Muscle biopsy: A biopsy is a process to remove a microscopic sample of muscle for examination. Only when the initial genetic test yields a negative result is a biopsy necessary. In roughly 30 percent of cases, this happens. Typically, the thigh muscle is used to collect the sample (quadriceps).

d) Electromyography (EMG): For a reliable diagnosis of motor neuron disease, an EMG is a necessary examination. It can show the extensive denervation and fasciculations that are needed. Considered as an extension of the clinical evaluation, EMG records electrical activity in muscle. It can distinguish between neurogenic and myopathic muscular weakness and atrophy. In clinically normal muscle, it can find anomalies such as persistent denervation or fasciculations. It can distinguish between localised nerve, plexus, or radicular pathology by looking at the distribution of neurogenic abnormalities. It can also offer evidence in favour of the pathophysiology of peripheral neuropathy, such as axonal degeneration or demyelination.

Upashaya (relieving factors): Temporary relief occurs due to Panchakarma procedures including Shaman Chikitsa, also helps to increase quality of life without using steroidal formulation (22).

Samprapti of the disease:Samprapti” elucidates the progression and course of the disease, including its natural history and potential complications as described below in (Table/Fig 3).

Samprapti Ghatak (Aetiopathogenesis)

Ayurvedic management of DMD: DMD, as mentioned in (Table/Fig 4), viewed through the lens of Ayurveda, involves a disruption in the equilibrium of Tridosha, impacting vital bodily tissues such as Rasa, Rakta, and Mamsa dhatu (17),(23),(24),(25),(26),(27),(28),(29),(30). The disturbance extends to Agni, encompassing Jatharagni, Rakta, and Mamsa Dhatvagni, signifying an imbalance in metabolic processes. Identified within the Adhishthan of Mamsa or muscle tissue, the condition is recognised for its complexity. Acharyas classified as Asadhya, DMD poses inherent challenges in treatment; however, its potential for betterment, labelled as Yapya, is acknowledged through proactive measures such as early detection and meticulous management, aligning with Ayurvedic principles of holistic well-being (31).

The therapeutic interventions for DMD, aimed at disrupting its aetiological progression, are comprehensively detailed in (Table/Fig 5) (32). This table elucidates treatment modalities based on the Ayurvedic principles of Guna (quality), Karma (action), and efficacy, providing a nuanced understanding of interventions effective in addressing the complexities of DMD.

The numerous Shamana Chikitsa formulations and their effectiveness in DMD are presented in (Table/Fig 6) [33-36]. These medications not only play a crucial role in alleviating symptoms but also contribute significantly to the strengthening of muscles. Complemented by Rasayan therapies, these formulations collectively represent a comprehensive approach in the therapeutic management of the disease, aiming to enhance overall well-being and mitigate the impact of DMD on muscle health.

In conjunction with the treatment modalities, (Table/Fig 7) these provide a detailed exposition of the inclusion of Yogasana, physiotherapy (traction), and occupational therapy (braces). These integrative therapies prove highly efficient in augmenting muscle strength. Additionally, the incorporation of Pranayama, a key component, not only regulates breathing patterns but also extends lifespan. Pranayama imparts a soothing effect to the body, fosters mental calmness, and cultivates a positive outlook, contributing holistically to the well-being of individuals affected by DMD (37).

Acharya Kashyapa in Ayurveda regards diet as the (Mahabheshaja) supreme medicine, emphasising that adherence to prescribed dietary guidelines, known as Pathya, is essential for health. Maintaining balance in Sapta-dhatu and tri-dosha through proper nutrition influences various aspects of well-being, including voice, lifespan, happiness, strength, development, intellect, and complexion. Aahara Kalpana underscores the crucial role of nutrition in preserving health and treating diseases by considering its impact on Dosh, Dhatu, Mala, and Agni (38). This pivotal insight is detailed in (Table/Fig 8), elucidating the principles of Pathya (beneficial) and Apathya (to be avoided). Adhering to these dietary guidelines becomes paramount in ensuring optimal health outcomes for individuals, particularly children, grappling with DMD (15).
Discussion
The DMD is an inherited X chromosome–linked recessive myopathy for which no cure exists (39). The greatest possible outcome for treating genetic abnormalities is to keep the patient comfortable and functional (40). The primary pharmacological palliative treatment for DMD up to this point has been corticosteroids, but these medications have a long list of side effects. There is a need for an alternative therapy that may prevent the growth of this illness without causing any negative effects (41). When describing the Dhatupaka Avastha, Acharyas emphasise the significance of Agni, who is wholly and solely responsible for the development of the following Dhatus. Therefore, Deepana and Pachana Dravya administration should be used to rectify the Agni in order to strengthen the process. Doshas must also be balanced, and Panchakarma should be used to remove metabolic poisons from the Dhatus (42). The concept of “Brhmanyastu Mrudu Langyet,” which refers to the use of Rukshana for better Brihmana treatment modalities, is present in the preoperative process mentioned by Acharyas. There are various Shodhana treatment modalities for beneficiaries of patient, like Udvartana, which performs Sthiri Karana on Angas and aids in the eradication of Srotorodha. Additionally explained as a form of Rukshana are Pachana medications (43).

Due to the Kapha-vatahar action, Sarvanga dhara by Kwath promotes muscle strength while also reducing rigidity. Pinda Swedana is effective for ailments related to wasting. Additionally, Pindasweda was goal-oriented in a few trials. Because it simultaneously uses the Vatahar mechanism’s pre-procedure Abhyanga, Swedan, and Lepan with nutrition, as with Parishekha and Dhanyamla, Chikitsa is essential in the first deepana treatment of DMD (44). Upanah is helpful in the reduction of spasticity and contractures due to its Ushna, Teekshna Kapha-vatahar action (45). Since cardiomyopathy is a specific sign of muscular dystrophy, a neuromuscular assessment is required in this instance. It might not show any symptoms till the very end of the disease. Boys affected by DMD experience a progressive weakening of muscles, resulting in the eventual inability to walk. This condition also contributes to the development of scoliosis, respiratory decline, and compromised cardiac function. Scoliosis is a problem that often arises when ambulation is lost and should be periodically radiologically examined (46).

Last but not least, according to Acharya Kashyapa, food is essential for preserving health, as it is said to be Mahabheshaja in children (38). Pathya and Apathya explained in (Table/Fig 8) should be followed. Counselling (Satvavajay Chikitsa) should be provided to the patient’s parents in order to ensure their well-being and provide them with life support.
Conclusion
Since DMD is a genetic ailment, there is currently no permanent treatment for it; instead, doctors aim to extend the patient’s life and enhance their quality of life. In order to improve patient quality of life and prevent contractures of the body, which make life worse, efforts have been made to inform the public and the medical community about the treatment options. Many Ayurveda Panchakarma modalities, including Shodhana and Shaman Chikitsa, as well as occupational therapies like traction, braces, and skill development, as well as physiotherapy, Yogasana, and Pranayama, will help to stop detoriation muscles of the heart and body, and last is diet that includes Pathya and Apathya, i.e., which diet should or should not be followed.
Acknowledgement
The authors would like to acknowledge and give their warmest thanks to their Head of the Department, Dr. Renu B Rathi who made this work possible. Her guidance and advice carried the authors through all the stages of writing the article. They also express their gratitude to Dr. Swecha Choudhary, for her support in completing the article.
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DOI and Others
DOI: 10.7860/JCDR/2024/67780.19412

Date of Submission: Sep 30, 2023
Date of Peer Review: Dec 21, 2023
Date of Acceptance: Feb 23, 2024
Date of Publishing: May 01, 2024

AUTHOR DECLARATION:
• Financial or Other Competing Interests: None
• Was informed consent obtained from the subjects involved in the study? No
• For any images presented appropriate consent has been obtained from the subjects. No

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