Siddha Approach in Rehabilitation of a Patient with Foot Drop by Use of CSET (Chakrasiddh Spine Expert Therapy) - A Case Report

<p><strong>Abstract</strong></p> <p><em>Paakavayu or Panguvata</em> in the Siddha system of medicine is used to describe weakness or paralysis of the limbs, including foot drop, a condition which is clinically characterized as severe weakening of ankles and toe dorsiflexion. This condition can lead to dragging of the toes while walking and difficulty in raising the front part of the foot towards the shin, causing a shuffling gait, and may often result in tripping. It is a debilitating disease as it has a great impact on the daily life activities of an individual, lowering their quality of life.</p> <p>We present the case of a 36-year-old male with foot drop in the left leg of indeterminate origin, necessitating extensive medical evaluation. The patient had a history of a significant fall during his teens, resulting in severe lumbar pain and a foot fracture, initially managed well with conventional pharmacological treatment, but later in his 30s started feeling weakness in both legs, gradually resulting in left leg foot drop. The patient exhibited persistent functional impairment despite conventional medical interventions, rehabilitation programs, and alternative therapies. Notably, after one-month of application of Chakrasiddh Spine Expert therapy (CSET), the patient experienced a substantial improvement in foot mobility, strength, balance, gait, and pelvic floor function monitored as enhanced scores in Manual muscle Testing, FADI (Foot and Ankle Disability Index), Berg Balance scale and Dynamic Gate index.</p> <p>The observed clinical response of the patient of Siddha therapeutic approach, which integrates biomechanical alignment with neuro-muscular energizing techniques, suggests a potential link between neuro-musculoskeletal dysfunction and foot drop. This case underscores the need for further studies on Siddha therapy, particularly CSET, as a possible adjunctive or primary intervention for foot drop cases.</p> <p><strong>Keywords: </strong>Foot drop, nerve compression, foot dorsiflexion, Panguvata<em>, </em>Siddha, Chakrasiddh spine and energy therapy, Varmam therapy, Thokannam</p>