A young Mumbai-based professional dancer in her 20s made a full recovery after developing sudden, stiff “robotic” movements following a recent viral illness. Doctors at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai, led by Dr Sheetal Goyal, Consultant Neurologist, diagnosed and treated her for Acute Transverse Myelitis (ATM)—despite initial scans appearing normal.
Early Symptoms After Viral Illness Raise Concern
Initially, the dancer experienced a running nose and cough about 10–15 days before her symptoms escalated. However, two days prior to seeking neurological consultation, she developed severe tightness in her legs and difficulty walking.
She described her condition as her legs suddenly becoming rigid, heavy, and unresponsive. In addition, she experienced significant back pain, which preceded the onset of walking difficulty.
Clinical Examination Reveals Unusual Gait
When she consulted Dr Goyal, her symptoms raised immediate concern.
“When I asked her to walk, her gait was extremely stiff, almost robotic. Although she had no urinary complaints, her leg tightness and slowed movements were alarming,” said Dr Sheetal Goyal.
Normal MRI and Tests Delay Diagnosis
Prior to visiting Wockhardt Hospitals, the patient had consulted an orthopaedist and underwent Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). However, the scans showed no abnormalities. Furthermore, nerve conduction velocity (NCV) tests and brain imaging also returned normal results.
Despite these findings, Dr Goyal relied on clinical evaluation rather than imaging alone.
Suspecting Acute Transverse Myelitis Despite Negative Imaging
Based on the patient’s symptoms and examination, Dr Goyal suspected Acute Transverse Myelitis, a rare inflammatory condition in which the immune system attacks the spinal cord, often following a viral infection.
“Acute Transverse Myelitis can sometimes be MRI-negative in its early stages. While investigations are helpful, they cannot replace clinical judgment. Her examination strongly indicated spinal cord inflammation,” Dr Goyal explained.
Prompt Treatment Leads to Rapid Recovery
Given the rapid progression of symptoms and the patient’s young age, the medical team initiated immediate treatment. She received high-dose intravenous steroids, which led to noticeable improvement within five days.
Subsequently, doctors administered immunoglobulin therapy, further accelerating her recovery.
By the tenth day of hospitalisation, she showed remarkable progress.
“By discharge, she was walking normally. Her stiffness had significantly reduced, her speed improved, and she was even able to attempt dancing again,” Dr Goyal added.
Understanding Acute Transverse Myelitis
Acute Transverse Myelitis can develop within hours to days and may lead to:
- Muscle weakness
- Sensory disturbances
- Bowel or bladder dysfunction
- In severe cases, paralysis
Therefore, early diagnosis and prompt treatment are critical to prevent long-term disability.
Full Recovery and Return to Normal Life
Following timely intervention, the young dancer has regained full mobility. She now plans to resume her professional career and personal activities, including an upcoming international trip.
Key Takeaway: Clinical Judgment Remains Crucial
As per the press release, Dr Goyal emphasised an important lesson from this case:
“MRI and other tests are valuable tools, but they are meant to support—not replace—clinical judgment. Early recognition and prompt treatment in suspected Acute Transverse Myelitis can prevent long-term disability.”
A Case That Highlights the Power of Early Intervention
Ultimately, this case underscores how timely neurological diagnosis and treatment at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai successfully reversed a potentially disabling spinal cord condition—allowing a young dancer to return not just to walking, but to doing what she loves most.