Management of Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease through Ayurveda Principles - A Case Report Highlighting Beejadushti with Mamsagata Vata

Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease is the most common inherited neuromuscular disorder affecting peripheral nerves, leading to progressive muscle weakness, sensory loss, and foot deformities. It occurs in approximately 1 in 2,500 individuals and is primarily caused by genetic mutations affecting the myelin sheath or axons. Prognosis varies by type, and conventional management includes surgical interventions, orthotic support, and pharmacologic therapy such as NSAIDs and tricyclic antidepressants. In Ayurveda, symptoms such as Mamsa Kshaya (muscle wasting), Sparshahani (sensory loss) and Balakshaya (weakness) suggest vitiation of Vata and Kapha Doshas, correlating with Vatavyadhi and Mamsagata Vata. CMT, being a genetically predisposed condition (Beejadushti), may be considered Asadhya Vyadhi. However, Ayurvedic interventions like Panchakarma and Shamanaushadhi offer symptomatic relief. A 4-year-old female diagnosed with CMT presented with bilateral foot drop, claw hands, and muscle weakness. She was admitted to the Kaumarabhritya department of SDM Institute of Ayurveda, Bengaluru, and treated with Panchakarma therapies including Sarvanga Abhyanga and Matra Basti. The patient showed significant clinical improvement on post-treatment. While CMT remains incurable due to its genetic basis, Ayurvedic management can provide symptomatic relief and improve quality of life.