Exploring the Role of Yoga and Naturopathy as Complementary Therapies in Chronic Kidney Disease Management: A Case Study.

BACKGROUND

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive condition often associated with hypertension and diabetes, leading to impaired renal function and poor quality of life.

OBJECTIVE

This study employed alternative and holistic approaches to enhance kidney function in a 56-year-old male diagnosed with CKD in 2021, hypertension in January 2021, and diabetes mellitus type 2 in 2022, who presented with worsening renal function and back pain symptoms.

STUDY

DESIGN

Single-patient case study at a single centre.

INTERVENTION: A 12-day intervention based on an integrated naturopathy and yoga approach was provided, which included therapeutic yoga, diet, hydrotherapy, manipulative, and relaxation techniques.

SETTING

Sri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara Yoga and Nature Cure Hospital, Dharmasthala, India.

OUTCOME MEASURES: General parameters (weight and body mass index), blood pressure (systolic and diastolic), kidney profile (creatinine and urea), urine profile (protein and sugar), blood glucose (fasting blood sugar and postprandial blood sugar), and pain (using Visual Analog Scale).

RESULTS

Post-treatment evaluation showed a notable improvement in his fasting blood sugar (15%), postprandial blood sugar (32%), blood pressure (~10%), serum creatinine (32%), proteinuria, glycosuria, and pain score relief (60-80%).

CONCLUSION

This suggests that an integrated yoga and naturopathy approach may be considered an alternative or adjunct treatment for managing CKD. However, additional research is needed to validate these findings.

KEYWORDS: chronic kidney disease, yoga, naturopathy, diet, case study.