What causes tingling and numbness in hands and feet in a 72-year-old with balance issues? - #56496

••As an Ayurvedic professional, evaluating a 72-year-old presenting with tingling and numbness in the hands and feet (Pani-Pada Suptata) alongside imbalance while walking and standing (Gati Sanga or Bhrama) requires a careful look at both the classical Ayurvedic pathogenesis and modern clinical indicators. ••Recommended Line of Treatment (Chikitsa Sutra) The treatment must focus on Vata Shamana (pacifying Vata), Majja Dhatu Pushti (nourishing the nervous tissue), and improving peripheral circulation. A. Internal Medications (Abhyantara Chikitsa) Nerve Nourishment & Vata Shamana: ••Ekangaveer Ras or Mahavatavidhvansan Ras (125 mg twice a day) – Excellent for nerve conduction and Vata disorders affecting limbs. ••Ksheerabala 101 Avarti (5–10 drops with warm milk on an empty stomach) – Highly effective for degenerative neurological conditions. To Improve Micro-circulation & Strength: ••Ashwagandharishta combined with Balarishta (15–20 ml with an equal quantity of lukewarm water, twice a day after meals). This provides Balya (strength) to the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. Spinal/Structural Support (If Spondylosis is suspected): ••Trayodashang Guggulu or Mahayograj Guggulu (2 tablets twice a day with warm water). B. External Therapies (Bahiparimarjana Chikitsa) Elderly neurological patients respond beautifully to external nourishment, as it bypasses potential gastrointestinal malabsorption: ••Mridu Abhyanga (Gentle Massage): Regular, gentle downward massage of the limbs and spine with Ksheerabala Taila or Mahanarayan Taila. This directly pacifies the localized Vyana Vayu. ••Bashpa Swedana (Mild Fomentation): Follow up the massage with mild steam to improve local circulation, ensuring it is not too hot given the patient’s age and altered sensation. ••Padabhyanga: Massaging the soles of the feet nightly with Ksheerabala Taila helps ground the Vata and improves proprioception (balance). C. Dietary and Lifestyle Modifications (Ahara-Vihara) ••Ahara: Focus on Snigdha (unctuous), Guru (nutritious), and Ushna (warm) foods. Include cow’s ghee, warm milk infused with a pinch of turmeric or ashwagandha powder, and well-cooked grain-based meals. Avoid dry (Ruksha), cold, and fermented foods. ••Vihara (Safety First): Because of the imbalance standing and walking, fall prevention is the highest priority. Advise the use of a walking assistive device (like a cane) immediately. Avoid dark corridors and slippery surfaces