Ayurvedic approach in the management of cerebral palsy- a case study
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Ayurvedic approach in the management of cerebral palsy- a case study
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
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Faizzehra R Vakil*
Md Scholar, Department of Kaumarbhritya, IPGT & RA, GAU, Jamnagar, Gujarat
K.S.Patel
Professor and HOD, Department of Kaumarbhritya, IPGT & RA, GAU, Jamnagar, Gujarat
V.K.Kori
Associate Professor, Department of Kaumarbhritya, IPGT & RA, GAU, Jamnagar, Gujarat
Sagar M. Bhinde
Assistant Professor, Department of Kaumarbhritya, IPGT & RA, GAU, Jamnagar, Gujarat
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Ayurvedic approach in the management of cerebral palsy- a case study
Year: 2019
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Cerebral Palsy (CP) represents the most prevalent form of childhood disability, encompassing a group of non-progressive and non-contagious disorders that primarily affect motor control and movement due to brain injuries or abnormal development. The condition is characterized by symptoms including difficulties in movement, muscle coordination, tone, posture, and balance. The management of CP often requires a multidisciplinary approach, combining various therapies such as medication, physiotherapy, and, increasingly, alternative treatments like those derived from Ayurveda, which offers unique methods such as Panchakarma therapy to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life for affected children.
Importance of Panchakarma Therapy
Panchakarma is a fundamental Ayurvedic treatment aimed at detoxifying the body and restoring balance. In this study, a child with Spastic Hemiplegic Cerebral Palsy underwent an 80-day treatment protocol involving three courses of Panchakarma therapy, combined with internal medications. The regimen included a series of massages such as Udvartana and Sarvanga Abhyanga, along with Pratimarsha Nasya and Yoga Basti therapy. Results showed significant improvements in the child's physical abilities, such as reduced spasticity, better neck control, and the ability to sit and walk with support. This highlights the potential of Panchakarma not only to address the root causes of CP but also to foster overall physical improvement.
Role of Internal Medicine and Ayurvedic Approaches
Besides external therapies, internal Ayurvedic medications play a crucial role in managing CP symptoms. In this case, Medhya Churna, a preparation aimed at enhancing cognitive function and overall health, was administered throughout the treatment. The integration of therapies like Nasya, which involves nasal administration of herbal oils, is thought to directly benefit brain function by stimulating the olfactory nerve and aiding in the absorption of nutrients. The study noted that with improved nutrient reception in the brain, the child exhibited progress in developmental milestones and overall functioning. This multifaceted approach showcases the holistic nature of Ayurvedic treatments in managing complex disorders.
Conclusion
The outcomes of this study underscore the efficacy of Ayurvedic methodologies, particularly Panchakarma and internal medicine, in improving the quality of life for children with Cerebral Palsy. While CP currently lacks a definitive cure, the demonstrated enhancements in physical abilities and developmental progress through Ayurvedic treatment suggest that early intervention with such therapies can lead to significant benefits. This reflects the overarching principle in Ayurveda that the human body possesses intrinsic healing capabilities, reinforcing the idea of neuroplasticity鈥攖he potential for the brain to reorganize and repair itself following injury. Consequently, integrating Ayurvedic practices into conventional medical frameworks may provide valuable options for managing chronic conditions like Cerebral Palsy.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the main objective of the Ayurvedic approach in managing cerebral palsy?
The primary aim is to evaluate the efficacy of Pratimarsha Nasya and Yoga Basti in treating cerebral palsy, facilitating improvement in motor functions, spasticity, and overall quality of life for the affected child.
What treatment protocol was followed in the case study?
The treatment included an 80-day regimen of Panchakarma therapies, regular Abhyanga, Udvartana, Pratimarsha Nasya, and Yoga Basti, alongside the internal administration of Medhya Churna, aiming for comprehensive management of spastic hemiplegic cerebral palsy.
What were the observed improvements in the child's condition?
Significant improvements included a 50% increase in neck holding, 33% in sitting and standing abilities, and language/motor function improvements through integrated Ayurvedic interventions, contributing to better functional outcomes.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for 鈥淎yurvedic approach in the management of cerebral palsy- a case study鈥�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Basti:
Basti is one of the Panchakarma therapies in Ayurveda used to pacify and regulate Vata Dosha. It involves administering medicated substances into the rectum. In the case study, Basti was part of the treatment protocol for spastic hemiplegic Cerebral Palsy, aiming to spread healing properties throughout the body.
2) Birth:
The history of the patient's birth is crucial in diagnosing Cerebral Palsy. This includes full-term delivery details, labor, and any complications like the baby's failure to cry soon after birth, which indicated birth asphyxia, necessitating NICU admission.
3) Medicine:
Internal medicine mentioned in the study includes Medhya Churna, an Ayurvedic remedy administered to promote cognitive functions. This was essential in managing Cerebral Palsy symptoms and improving overall health conditions in the case study.
4) Pratimarshanasya (Pratimarsanasya, Pratimarsha-nasya):
[see source text or glossary: Pratimarsha-nasya]
5) Udvartana:
Udvartana is an Ayurvedic therapy involving massage with dry powders. It is used to open up minute channels, improve blood and lymphatic circulation, and stimulate nerves. In the case study, Yava (Barley) and Kulattha Churna (Horse gram powder) were used for Udvartana.
6) Abhyanga (Abhyamga):
Abhyanga is a form of Ayurvedic oil massage that nourishes and strengthens the body. It was part of the treatment protocol, using Bala Taila, to promote muscle strength, reduce spasticity, and improve circulation in the patient with Cerebral Palsy.
7) Nasya (Nashya):
Nasya is a nasal administration of Ayurvedic medicines. In the study, Panchabhautikataila Nasya was used to stimulate the olfactory nerves and higher brain centers, contributing to improved neck holding and fine motor functions.
8) Taila (Thaila):
Taila refers to oil used in various Ayurvedic therapies. Bala Taila was employed for Abhyanga, and Panchendriyavivardhana Taila was used for Nasya, aiming to nourish, strengthen, and improve nerve function and circulation.
9) Language:
Language functions in the patient were assessed using a grading scale. The treatment showed a 16.67% improvement in fine motor and language functions, indicating enhanced brain activity and communication abilities due to Ayurvedic therapies.
10) Disease:
Cerebral Palsy is the disease under investigation. It is a non-progressive motor impairment condition caused by damage to the brain. The case study explores Ayurvedic treatment methods to manage and improve the symptoms of this disease.
11) Blood:
Blood circulation was enhanced through therapies like Abhyanga and Swedana. These treatments improved muscle tone, reduced spasticity, and promoted better health outcomes in the child with Cerebral Palsy.
12) Bala:
Bala refers to strength. In the context of the study, Bala Taila was used in Abhyanga to strengthen and nourish the muscles and tissues, contributing to reduced spasticity and improved motor functions.
13) Vata:
Vata Dosha is one of the three fundamental bodily humors in Ayurveda, responsible for movement and balance. In the case study, Vata was targeted through therapies like YogaBasti and Abhyanga to manage symptoms of cerebral palsy.
14) Balataila (Bala-taila):
[see source text or glossary: Bala-taila]
15) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is the ancient Indian system of medicine focused on balance and holistic health. The case study applies Ayurvedic therapies like Panchakarma, Abhyanga, Basti, and internal medicines to manage and treat Cerebral Palsy symptoms.
16) Shodhana (Sodhana):
Shodhana Chikitsa refers to purification treatments in Ayurveda. Panchakarma, which includes therapies like Basti and Nasya, was used as Shodhana in the case study to cleanse the body and address the root cause of Cerebral Palsy symptoms.
17) Madhyama:
[see source text or glossary: Madhyama]
18) Indriya (Imdriya):
Indriya refers to the sensory organs in Ayurveda. Panchendriyavivardhana Taila, used in Nasya, acts on all five Indriyas, which are connected to the brain, facilitating improved sensory and cognitive functions in the patient with Cerebral Palsy.
19) Snehana:
Snehana refers to oleation therapy in Ayurveda. Abhyanga, a type of Snehana therapy used in the case study, involves massaging the body with medicated oils like Bala Taila to nourish, strengthen, and improve circulation and muscle function.
20) Gujarat:
Gujarat, India, is where the study was conducted, specifically at the IPGT & RA, Gujarat Ayurved University in Jamnagar. This location indicates the academic and research setting for the Ayurvedic approach to managing Cerebral Palsy.
21) Ruksha (Ruksa):
[see source text or glossary: Ruksha]
22) Medhya:
[see source text or glossary: Medhya]
23) Family:
The family history in the case study indicated consanguinity and past mental and physical disabilities in relatives, which is crucial for understanding the genetic and environmental factors influencing the patient's condition.
24) Repair:
The concept of neuroplasticity in the discussion suggests that the CNS can repair damaged neurons by axonal sprouting. Ayurvedic treatments aim to support this natural healing process, improving outcomes for Cerebral Palsy patients.
25) Powder:
Powder form medicines like Medhya Churna were used internally to enhance cognitive functions, and powders like Yava and Kulattha Churna were used in Udvartana therapy for stimulating nerve function and improving circulation.
26) India:
India is the geographical and cultural context of the study. The case was treated using traditional Indian Ayurvedic methods at a university in Gujarat, reflecting the integration of ancient practices with modern research.
27) Yoga:
YogaBasti is a specific type of Basti therapy used in the case study. It combines the benefits of various Ayurvedic treatments to manage and improve symptoms of Cerebral Palsy by regulating Vata Dosha and enhancing bodily functions.
28) Guna:
[see source text or glossary: Guna]
29) Drug:
In the study, Ayurvedic drugs like Medhya Churna were administered. These herbal formulations aim to improve motor and cognitive functions in Cerebral Palsy patients by leveraging the therapeutic properties of Ayurvedic medicine.
30) Horse gram:
[see source text or glossary: Horse gram]
31) Anuvasanabasti (Anuvasana-basti):
[see source text or glossary: Anuvasana-basti]
32) Ashtavidha (Astavidha, Ashtan-vidha):
[see source text or glossary: Ashtavidha]
33) Pakvashaya (Pakvasaya, Pakva-ashaya):
[see source text or glossary: Pakvashaya]
34) Bastikarman (Bastikarma, Basti-karman, Basti-karma):
[see source text or glossary: Bastikarma]
35) Vatadosha (Vatadosa, Vata-dosha):
[see source text or glossary: Vatadosha]
36) Nasyakarman (Nasyakarma, Nasya-karma):
[see source text or glossary: Nasyakarma]
37) Discussion:
The discussion section in the study elaborates on the assessment, treatment outcomes, and theoretical basis for Ayurvedic therapies in managing Cerebral Palsy. It highlights the efficacy and improvement in motor and social functions due to the treatment protocol.
38) Anuvasana:
[see source text or glossary: Anuvasana]
39) Asthapana:
[see source text or glossary: Asthapana]
40) Samprapti:
[see source text or glossary: Samprapti]
41) Kulattha:
[see source text or glossary: Kulattha]
42) Tridosha (Tridosa, Tri-dosha):
[see source text or glossary: Tridosha]
43) Rukshana (Ruksana):
[see source text or glossary: Rukshana]
44) Pradhana:
[see source text or glossary: Pradhana]
45) Pariksha (Pariksa):
[see source text or glossary: Pariksha]
46) Snigdha:
[see source text or glossary: Snigdha]
47) Ghataka:
[see source text or glossary: Ghataka]
48) Abhakta:
[see source text or glossary: Abhakta]
49) Kandara (Kamdara):
[see source text or glossary: Kandara]
50) Samana (Shamana):
Shamana refers to pacifying treatment in Ayurveda. In the case study, alongside Shodhana treatments, Shamana therapies were used to manage symptoms and promote general wellness in the patient with Cerebral Palsy.
51) Sharira (Sarira):
[see source text or glossary: Sharira]
52) Samata (Shamata):
[see source text or glossary: Samata]
53) Shabda (Sabda):
[see source text or glossary: Shabda]
54) Sandhi (Shandhi, Samdhi):
[see source text or glossary: Sandhi]
55) Dushya (Dusya):
[see source text or glossary: Dushya]
56) Krisha (Krsa):
[see source text or glossary: Krisha]
57) Akriti (Akrti):
[see source text or glossary: Akriti]
58) Labour (Labor):
Details of labor are significant in evaluating Cerebral Palsy cases. The study mentions prolonged labor and premature rupture of membranes (PROM) as contributing factors to the patient's condition, leading to birth asphyxia.
59) Dosha (Dosa):
[see source text or glossary: Dosha]
60) Sutra:
[see source text or glossary: Sutra]
61) Bindu (Bimdu):
[see source text or glossary: Bindu]
62) Asthi (Ashthi):
[see source text or glossary: Asthi]
63) Jihva:
[see source text or glossary: Jihva]
64) Ushna (Usna):
[see source text or glossary: Ushna]
65) Mridu (Mrdu):
[see source text or glossary: Mridu]
66) Snayu:
[see source text or glossary: Snayu]
67) Sita (Shita):
[see source text or glossary: Shita]
68) Manda (Mamda):
[see source text or glossary: Manda]
69) Sagar (Sag谩r):
Sagar M. Bhinde is listed as one of the authors of the case study. He is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Kaumarbhritya, IPGT & RA, GAU, Jamnagar, Gujarat, India.
70) Patel:
K.S. Patel is listed as a co-author and is a Professor and HOD in the Department of Kaumarbhritya at IPGT & RA, GAU, Jamnagar, Gujarat, India. His role indicates expertise and leadership in the study.
71) Ayus (Ayush):
AYUSH refers to traditional systems of medicine, including Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy. The case study was published in AYUSHDHARA, an international journal focusing on research in AYUSH and allied systems.
72) Horse:
[see source text or glossary: Horse]
73) Sanga (Samga, Shanga, Shamga):
[see source text or glossary: Sanga]
74) Honey:
[see source text or glossary: Honey]
75) Guru:
[see source text or glossary: Guru]
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 84]
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: 鈥�Ayurvedic approach in the management of cerebral palsy- a case study鈥�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Udvartana, Pachana, Vatadosha, Pratimarshanasya, Nervous system, Ayurvedic treatment, Panchakarma Therapy, Ayurvedic approach, Cerebral palsy, Shodhana and Shamana, Developmental delay, Multidisciplinary approach, Nadi Swedana, Sarvanga Abhyanga, Yoga Basti, Neuroplasticity, Medhya Churna, Ashworth Scale, Developmental history, Fine motor skills.