Guillain-Barré Syndrome: An Alternative Pathway to Recovery

Abstract

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is an acute immune-mediated polyradiculoneuropathy that causes rapidly progressive limb weakness, areflexia, and potentially life-threatening respiratory involvement. Standard immunomodulatory therapies can reduce disease severity and accelerate recovery, but a substantial proportion of patients experience persistent functional impairment, fatigue, and residual disability, and no curative treatment currently exists. Within the Buddhist Dharma framework of Guan Yin Citta Dharma Door, certain neurological illnesses are understood to involve karmic and spiritual dimensions. This can be addressed through Five Golden Buddhist Practices including making vows, reciting Buddhist scriptures, performing life liberation, reading Buddhism in Plain Terms, and repenting of wrongdoings and refraining from doing them. Therefore, we present a case report of a patient with severe GBS who, after no improvement in hospitalization and a guarded prognosis, began systematic application of the Five Golden Buddhist Practices. Within less than two months, she reported progressive return of lower- extremity strength and the ability to run, along with resolution of various other chronic symptoms. This case provides a rationale for further investigation into the potential role of spiritual practices in neurological recovery. Conventional medical care remains essential, and such practices should be considered complementary rather than substitutional.