Paralympic Dream Reignited: MS Patient Walks Again with Precision Ayurveda

Mumbai: Apollo AyurVAID Hospitals today shared the documented functional recovery of Karen, an aspiring Paralympic archer living with multiple sclerosis (MS) for nearly three decades. She arrived at the hospital earlier this year with over twenty years of near-complete dependence on a wheelchair.

Karen had persistent chronic pain, weakness, and gait imbalance, and had been advised that no additional clinical interventions were likely to improve her mobility. While training in Chennai, Karen sought to explore whether a structured Ayurveda approach could help restore her mobility, improve muscle strength and overall function.

She consulted Dr. Susmitha C, a specialist in neurological and autoimmune conditions at Apollo AyurVAID Hospitals, and enrolled in a rigorous Precision Ayurveda programme.

Following a detailed assessment grounded in the principles of Precision Ayurveda, Karen’s treatment plan combined classical Panchakarma therapies, targeted Ayurveda medication, a therapeutic diet and focused neuro-rehabilitation formed the cornerstone of her care.

Karen’s journey was documented with clinical rigour, as measurable outcomes are vital in progressive neurological conditions. Standard neurological scales - including the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), Berg Balance Score and MS-specific functional assessments - were used to track her progress at every stage.

Dr. Susmitha C, Physician, Apollo AyurVAID Hospitals, said, “Karen presented with long-standing functional limitations and limited avenues within conventional care. Our objective was to design a phased, clinically safe programme that addressed the underlying drivers of her condition.

Each component of her care, from therapies to diet to physiotherapy, was individualised to her clinical profile and athletic requirements. This integrative approach to whole-person care addresses body, mind, and soul, supporting both immediate recovery and long-term functional maintenance.

Her progress reinforces the role of a precision-based Ayurveda approach in improving function in complex, chronic conditions. She continues with consolidation therapy and strength development, and we anticipate further gains as she progresses through her long-term plan.”

Karen added, "Living with MS for nearly three decades, I had learned to adjust to limitations, but never imagined I could regain true mobility. Working with the team at Apollo AyurVAID Hospitals has been transformative, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally.

The therapies and guidance helped me reconnect with my body in ways I hadn’t felt in years. Standing up on my feet again feels like reclaiming a part of myself I thought was lost forever. I’m now able to integrate focused lower limb training into my archery practice, and it’s empowering to feel my strength and balance returning.

This experience has given me renewed confidence and motivation to pursue my dream of competing in the 2028 LA Paralympics, knowing that my body can respond to my efforts once more."

Karen, who is also a pharmacist and an advocate for disability visibility and access in sports, has transformed her health challenge into a purpose. She has represented the US national para archery team and competed in two world championships while inspiring others to believe in possibilities beyond limitation.

Apollo AyurVAID Hospitals remain committed to advancing whole-person care through Precision Ayurveda for chronic disease reversal.

By integrating personalised treatment protocols, evidence-aligned pathways, and long-term health management, the hospital supports patients seeking sustainable recovery and functional improvement in chronic and complex conditions. Karen has returned for follow-up sessions as part of a structured health management programme aimed at sustaining recovery and consolidating functional benefits.