Clinical Improvement of Renal Function and Edema in an Elderly Patient with Chronic Kidney Disease Treated with Modified Bunshimgi-eum: A Case Study

Background: Edema and renal dysfunction are common in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). This study aimed to describe changes in renal function and edema in an elderly patient with CKD during Korean medicine treatment, including modified Bunshimgi-eum.Methods: An 83-year-old woman with CKD presented with bilateral lower-extremity edema and gait disturbance. During a 26-day hospitalization, she received Korean medicine therapies-modified Bunshimgi-eum, acupuncture, moxibustion, and cupping—together with adjustments to Western medications and physical therapy. Clinical changes were assessed using renal function tests, Functional Ambulation Categories, and edema assessment indices. Edema was measured daily at the same time, in the same position, and at consistent anatomical sites.Results: During the treatment period, the CKD stage improved from G4 to G3; edema resolved within two weeks; and the Functional Ambulation Category score increased from 3 to 4. No adverse events were reported.Discussion: Improvements in renal function, edema, and gait ability were observed during integrative treatment, including modified Bunshimgi-eum. However, as multiple interventions were applied simultaneously, the specific contribution of the herbal formula could not be determined. The absence of post-discharge follow-up limits assessment of the long-term durability of these changes.Conclusion: This case suggests the potential usefulness of Korean medicine in relieving symptoms and improving quality of life in patients with CKD; however, controlled studies are needed to clarify the independent role and safety of modified Bunshimgi-eum in CKD management.