Muscular Dystrophy According to Unani Medicine
In Unani medicine, a condition where the muscles of an organ or the entire body become flaccid and unable to perform their functions is referred to as Istirkha or Huzal (Emaciation or Cachexia). The condition may arise due to several causes.
Definition
Istirkha (Flaccidity): Occurs when an obstruction (suddah) develops at the origin of a muscle (the nerve root originating from the spinal cord), which blocks the transfer of motor power to the affected organ. This results in the organ becoming flaccid, losing both sensation and movement.
Types of Obstructions:
If the obstruction affects the nerve roots supplying all muscles, it leads to complete paralysis, affecting all motor and vital functions. This condition is called Abr Bilqusiya.
If the obstruction occurs on one side (right or left) of the nerve origin, it results in Hemiplegia or Facial Paralysis (Bell’s Palsy) on the affected side, causing flaccidity of the limbs and face on that side.
If it affects the nerve supplying the larynx, it causes loss of voice.
If it impacts the nerve supplying the bladder, it results in urinary incontinence.
If the nerve supplying the anus is affected, it leads to fecal incontinence.
The same principle applies to other body organs, where obstruction in the nerve supplying the specific muscle causes flaccidity, disabling its movement.
Causes
Thick Phlegmatic Humors:
Obstruction in nerve pathways due to dense phlegmatic humors or narrowing of the nerve passage caused by:
Tight ligaments restricting muscle movement.
Swelling or inflammation in the spinal cord.
Displacement of bones causing nerve compression.
Trauma or Damage:
Crushing or severing of a muscle can cause flaccidity.
If the muscle is cut across its width, the condition is often irreversible. However, if cut lengthwise, the damage is minimal.
Muscle Weakness:
Weakness caused by a decline in the natural temperament of the body.
Poor Nutrition:
Malnutrition due to consumption of low-fat or excessive intake of thick foods.
Sudden Cessation of Exercise:
Halting regular and intense physical activity can lead to this condition.
Excess Phlegm-Producing Diet:
Consumption of foods that increase phlegm production.
Symptoms
The affected organ becomes flaccid and hangs loosely, losing both sensation and movement.
Suddah due to Phlegmatic Humors:
Symptoms appear suddenly without any external cause.
Suddah due to Narrowing:
Marked by severe pain and rigidity.
Preceding Symptoms:
Severe headache.
Congestion in jugular veins.
Vertigo and dizziness.
Darkened vision.
Cold extremities.
Palpitations throughout the body.
Heaviness in movements.
Teeth grinding while sleeping.
Changes in Urine:
Dark-colored urine with sedimentation.
Muscle Tears:
Lack of response to treatment indicates irreparable damage.
Roman Paralysis (Istirkha Rumi):
Muscle stiffness, constant pain, and fever.
Severe pain and high fever in warm inflammation; mild pain and fever in cold inflammation.
Treatment
Topical Applications:
Castor oil (Roghan Arand).
Oil of Juniper (Roghan Jund Bedastar).
Euphorbia (Farfiyoon).
Mustard Poultice (Zimad-e-Khardal).
Internal Medications:
Ingredients:
Costus (Qust).
Galangal (Kholanjan).
Ginger (Aqarqarha).
Cinnamon (Darcheeni).
Indian Barberry (Baladur).
Black Seed (Kalonji).
Turmeric (Haldi).
Compound Formulations:
Majoon Falsafa.
Majoon Baladur.
Khameera Marwareed.
Jawarish Jalinoos.
Diagnosis
Blood and Urine Tests: To detect abnormalities.
Exercise Testing: To assess physical performance.
Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS): For genetic analysis.
MRI: For detailed imaging.
Muscle Biopsies: To study tissue pathology.
Neurophysiological Tests (EMG): To analyze muscle and nerve function.
Electron Microscopy: For cellular-level examination.
Key Notes
Distinction: Istirkha involves flaccidity of either a specific organ or the whole body (excluding head and face), while Paralysis (Falij) affects only half the body.
This condition is common in children and may be hereditary.
