Effect of integrated naturopathy, yoga and acupuncture therapy in improving balance and gait in a rare case of cortico-basal ganglionic degeneration with atypical Parkinsonism

Abstract

Cortico-basal degeneration (CBD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder described by unilateral rigidity and apraxia. The clinical presentation may include dystonia, myoclonus and tremor along with motor speech disorders and cortical sensory loss. At present, no definite approved treatment is available for alleviating the symptoms. Hence, the use of non-pharmacological therapies assumes significance. The purpose of the study is to demonstrate the role of yoga, naturopathy and acupuncture in the case of CBD. The case study was a 61-year-old female who presented with complaints of difficulty in walking, weakness of left upper and lower limbs along with abnormal speech and vision. Later, she was diagnosed with CBD and managed with integrated naturopathy, yoga therapy, acupuncture therapy, physiotherapy and dietary modifications along with conventional medicine. With an integrated approach given for 15 days, the patient demonstrated an increase in the gait and balance score. The patient was assessed using the Berg Balance Scale and Tinetti Gait and Balance Assessment Tool. The presented case report indicates the role of alternative therapy in CBD.