Transverse myelitis is a rare neurological disorder characterized by inflammation across one segment of the spinal cord, leading to severe motor, sensory, and autonomic dysfunction. With an incidence of approximately 1 to 8 cases per million people per year, it affects individuals of all ages, races, and genders. This is the story of Nalin Maheshwari Hemender Pandwal, a 35-year-old father of two, who overcame this daunting challenge with unwavering determination.

NMC Provita

Nalin, a financial controller in the UAE, first experienced severe back pain, which quickly escalated into paralysis in his legs. He was admitted to NMC Royal Hospital in February, 2024, where he was diagnosed with acute transverse myelitis. Immediate intervention included five sessions of plasmapheresis and pulse steroid therapy.

Nalin, a financial controller here in the UAE, first with a bad backache that got much worse very quickly. His legs became paralyzed, and he needed to go to the hospital. In February 2024, doctors at NMC Royal Hospital figured out he had a condition called acute transverse myelitis. To help him right away, they gave him a special treatment with five sessions of something called plasmapheresis and pulse steroid therapy.

Dr. John Reyes-GP with certification in Wound Care.

Following his initial treatment, Nalin was admitted to NMC Provita on April 8, 2024, for an intensive rehabilitation program. His legs and core muscles were very weak. He couldn’t feel changes in temperature or deep touch sensations below the hip. His bladder and bowel functions were affected, requiring the use of a catheter for urination and diapers for bowel movements initially. Despite severe impairments, Nalin’s trunk balance allowed him to sit unsupported, and he could stand with moderate assistance for a few minutes.

Jaydee Madlambayan, Occupational Therapist

After his first treatment, Nalin started an intensive rehabilitation program at NMC Provita. His legs and core muscles were very weak and he was unable to sense touch or changes in temperature. His body needed extra help to do  activities that many people find simple, like changing positions and using the bathroom. Even with these challenges, Nalin could sit up by himself because his upper body was strong, and he could stand for a short time with some support.

Physiotherapist, Methagowsic Velayutham

Nalin faced numerous challenges, including impaired sensation in his lower extremities and urinary and fecal incontinence. However, his cognitive functions remained sharp, and his determination was unwavering. Under the careful guidance of our NMC Provita multi-disciplinary team, he began a rigorous rehabilitation regimen. His therapy included regular strengtht raining, core strengthening, sit-to-stand training, gait training, treadmill training, stair training, functional activity training, car transfer training and sensory re-integration training.

Nalin had to overcome a lot, including numbness in his legs and difficulty controlling bodily functions. However, his mind stayed sharp, and he never gave up. Under the careful guidance of the NMC ProVita multi-disciplinary medical team, he began a rehabilitation program with exercises to build strength in his legs and core to help him sit up and stand, walking exercises, and even stair practice. They also worked on activities he’d need to do every day, like getting in and out of a car, which helped him to get stronger every day.

After just one month in the intensive rehabilitation program, Nalin showed remarkable progress. His hip movement substantially improved, and while he still lacks some sensation in his lower legs, he bladder and bowel control improved completely. He transitioned from using a walker to a single cane and can now stand and walk on his own. His balance score improved significantly, showing he’s no longer at risk of falling. He even participated in ProVita’s community mobility program, where he shops independently, climbs stairs, carries his shopping bags, and walks independently.

Finally Nalin’s journey is a testament to his hard work and commitment. Most of his physical and functional goals have been met, and he continues to strive for further improvements. His remaining goals include achieving full strength in his hip muscles, increasing his endurance and walking speed, and mastering stair climbing without assistance. With his continuous efforts, he is confident that he will achieve these milestones soon.

Nalin’s Physiotherapist, Methagowsic Velayutham, said “Nalin’s story is one of resilience and hope. From the brink of immobility, he fought his way back to independence, driven by his love for his family and his role as their provider. His success is a powerful reminder that with dedication and support from family and a multi-disciplinary care team, even the most challenging obstacles can be overcome.”

Jaydee Madlambayan, Occupational Therapist, said “Nalin’s journey through transverse myelitis is not just a medical triumph; it is a story of human spirit and determination, inspiring many to believe in the possibility of recovery and the power of perseverance. “

Dr John said, “What stood out to me was his eagerness and resolve to make progress. He consistently engaged and actively participated in all his therapy sessions which significantly contributed to his remarkable improvement.”