Management of palmoplantar psoriasis and its comorbidities using yoga and naturopathic lifestyle interventions: A case report

Abstract

Palmoplantar psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that contributes to significant functional disability. Apart from the chronic inflammatory reactions in the skin, psoriasis patients are more likely to develop chronic systemic disorders, which impose significant physical, mental, and economic burdens. This warrants a holistic, patient-centered approach that can address the prevailing multimorbidity in psoriasis patients. Yoga and Naturopathy-based Lifestyle Interventions (YNBL) are known for their whole-person approach and are reported to be beneficial in the management of autoimmune disorders. We report a case of a 63-year-old male treated with YNBL for palmoplantar psoriasis along with diabetes mellitus, coronary artery disease, low back pain, and insomnia. The patient underwent YNBL in an inpatient setting for 10 days each with a gap of 7 months, along with follow-up advises. The prognosis was measured through the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index, along with other biochemical markers like fasting blood sugar, random blood sugar, vitamins D and B12, and subjective visual analog scores for vitality and other symptoms. He achieved complete remission of psoriasis by the end of 8 months, and the results were sustained even during the follow-up. The results are encouraging for using the YNBL protocol in the management of palmoplantar psoriasis; however, these findings need to be validated using clinical trial designs.