Combined Tui na and Western medicine treatment improves pulmonary function and quality of life in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: A case report

Abstract

Rationale: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a rare disease that cannot be cured. We report a case of a patient with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis whose pulmonary function and quality of life were improved by a combined tui na treatment and Western medicine. Patient concerns: A 48-year-old male was diagnosed with ALS 1 year ago and was treated with western medicine and herbal medicine with no significant effect. This time, he was admitted to our department because of slurred speech, coughing and choking, and weakness of the left upper limb for more than 1 year. Intervention and outcome: After 1 month of treatment with tui na and traditional western medicine, the patient’s lung function and quality of life improved and he was discharged from the hospital. Diagnoses: Motor neuron disease. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Lessons: The physiological function of ALS patients can be improved through the intervention of tui na.