AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT IN SPASTIC CEREBRAL PALSY – A CASE STUDY

Abstract

Cerebral Palsy is a neuromotor disorder affecting movement and posture causing activity limitation. Although non progressive, Cerebral Palsy (CP) is one of the major cause of childhood disability. Nearly 15-20% of physically disabled children in India is affected by CP. Estimated incidence of CP in India is 3 per 1000 live birth. Spastic CP is the most common form and make up over 70% of all diagnosis.20-30% of Children with CP have spastic hemiplegic CP. Spastic CP can be included under the spectrum of Vathavyadhi, in which mobility (Chalathwa), of the area is     affected along with presence of contractures (Sankocha) and spasticity (Sthambha). Cerebral Palsy is not a completely curable disease but the burden of disease on the patient can be reduced by timely and effective Ayurvedic interventions. The present case is of a 6-year-old male child with Spastic Hemiplegic CP presenting with symptoms like reduced range of movement and muscle power of left upper and lower limb and gait abnormality with preserved intellect who has undergone Oleation (Snehana), Sudation (Swedana) and Medicated Enema (Vasthi) along with external application of medicines (Upanaha). The spasticity was assessed through Range of motion(ROM) of affected joints using Goniometer and Modified Ashworth Scale. After treatment spasticity was reduced and ROM considerably increased in shoulder, wrist, knee and ankle joints. Muscle power was also increased after the treatment.