Chronic kidney disorder (CKD) is a progressive loss of kidney function over time, often triggered by lifestyle-related issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or poor dietary habits. Though CKD can be managed with medications, incorporating holistic therapies like yoga has shown significant benefits in slowing the progression and improving quality of life. This case study chronicles the journey of Mr. Arvind Malhotra, a 50-year-old diabetic patient, who was able to reverse early-stage kidney dysfunction with a structured combination of medical treatment, lifestyle changes, and yoga therapy.
Table of Contents
Patient Background:
- Name: Arvind Malhotra
- Age: 50
- Occupation: Chartered Accountant
- Medical History: Type 2 Diabetes (10 years), Hypertension (5 years)
- Lifestyle: Sedentary, irregular meals, high stress
- Presenting Symptoms: Fatigue, mild swelling in feet, frequent urination, and high blood pressure
Initial Medical Diagnosis Of Kidney Disorder:
Arvind consulted a doctor and a nephrologist who was concerned about persistent fatigue and swelling in his ankles. After preliminary investigations, the following results were observed:
Test Results:
- Serum Creatinine: 1.8 mg/dL (normal < 1.2)
- eGFR: 58 mL/min/1.73m² → indicating Stage 2 CKD
- Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN): 32 mg/dL (normal range: 7–20 mg/dL)
- Urine Microalbumin: Elevated (indicative of early nephropathy)
- Blood Pressure: 148/92 mmHg
Diagnosis:
-
Early-stage Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD Stage 2), Diabetic Nephropathy
Medical Treatment Plan:
The doctor initiated a treatment regimen focused on protecting kidney function and managing contributing factors like diabetes and hypertension.
Medications:
- Telmisartan: To control blood pressure and reduce protein loss in urine
- Metformin (low dose): For blood sugar management
- Alpha Keto Analogues: To reduce nitrogen load on the kidneys
- Vitamin D3 + B12: Supplementation
- Low-protein Renal Diet: To minimize the buildup of nitrogenous waste
Dietary Instructions:
- Reduce salt and protein intake
- Avoid processed foods and animal protein
- Increase hydration (unless advised otherwise)
- Include kidney-friendly foods like apples, cabbage, cauliflower, and bell peppers
Introduction to Yoga Therapy:
To support his healing, Arvind was referred to the Yoga Wellness Centre, where a certified yoga therapist created a kidney-specific yoga and pranayama plan focused on improving circulation, reducing stress, and supporting detoxification.
Yoga Practice and Techniques:
Initial Phase (Weeks 1–4):
Goals: Gentle activation, breath awareness, and kidney stimulation
Asanas:
- Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose): Enhances circulation to the abdominal and pelvic regions
- Ardha Matsyendrasana (Half Spinal Twist): Improves kidney function through compression and release
- Supta Baddha Konasana (Reclining Bound Angle Pose): Relaxes abdominal muscles and improves digestion
Pranayama:
- Anulom Vilom (Alternate Nostril Breathing): Balances the nervous system and lowers blood pressure
- Bhramari (Bee Breath): Calms the mind and supports kidney relaxation
Routine:
- 30 minutes daily, 5–6 days/week
- Focus on breathing and gentle holds
Mid-Phase (Weeks 5–12):
Goals: Deeper kidney activation, improved metabolism, stress reduction
New Asanas Introduced:
- Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend): Massages the kidneys and abdominal organs
- Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose): Improves circulation and stimulates the kidneys
- Uttanasana (Standing Forward Bend): Helps in detoxification
Advanced Pranayama and Cleansing:
- Kapalbhati (in moderation): Activates abdominal muscles and aids in mild detox
- Agnisar Kriya: Stimulates abdominal organs and improves metabolism
Lifestyle Additions:
- Morning warm water with turmeric and lemon
- Digital detox one hour before sleep
- Mindful eating and stress journaling
- Weekly nature walks to promote grounding and relaxation
Progress and Monitoring
After 3 Months:
- Serum Creatinine: Reduced to 1.4 mg/dL
- eGFR: Improved to 68 mL/min/1.73m²
- BUN: Dropped to 22 mg/dL
- Symptoms: No more swelling in ankles, improved energy levels, better sleep
- Blood Pressure: 130/85 mmHg
After 6 Months:
- Serum Creatinine: 1.1 mg/dL
- eGFR: 75 mL/min/1.73m² (normal range for his age)
- Urine Microalbumin: Back within normal limits
- Medication: Continued Telmisartan; Metformin reduced; Alpha Keto Analogues discontinued
- Overall: Normalized kidney function and excellent control of diabetes and blood pressure
Conclusion:
Arvind’s recovery illustrates how early-stage kidney disease can be effectively managed and even reversed with the integration of medical treatment, lifestyle correction, and yoga. His discipline, regular yoga practice, and dedication to healing helped him avoid disease progression and dialysis.
Reference Article:
- 6 Yoga asanas for high creatinine treatment in Kidney Patients
- The Best 6 Yoga Poses for Kidney Disorders
- Yoga Therapy For Kidney Disorders
- Effect Of Yoga Therapy On Fasting Lipid Profile In Chronic Kidney Disease: A Comparative Study
