The Effect of Meru Chikitsa (Therapeutic touch therapy) on Visual Recovery inTraumatic Optic Neuropathy: A Case report

Abstract

Traumatic optic neuropathy is a devastating cause of sudden loss of vision following trauma to the head or face, with 60-80% reported to have permanent or near-permanent vision loss. Management is individual-based, and there are no clear guidelines for this condition, with visual regain being unpredictable and frequently delayed. Meru chikitsa (MC) is an ancient ayurvedic touch therapy that is beneficial in conditions such as anxiety, cognitive disorders, and chronic back pain. It is based on therapeutic touches to specific areas of the spine where there may be energy blocks. The normalised energy flow and breathing patterns promote wellness and healing. The present study describes the beneficial effect of MC on a patient of Traumatic optic neuropathy who received six sessions of therapy after sub-optimal response to conventional therapy, which included mega-dose steroids and a neuroprotective regimen