Effect of ayurveda treatment modalities in motor disabilities of children with cerebral palsy: A pilot clinical study

Abstract

Background: Cerebral Palsy (CP), is umbrella term which encompasses a broad spectrum of neurological impairments which requires multiple line of treatment. Ayurveda interventions for improving the motor disabilities can contribute in bringing out a better result in this condition. Objective: To evaluate the effect of Ayurveda treatment modalities in motor disabilities of children with cerebral palsy (CP). Materials and Methods: A single-centered, open-labeled, prospective, clinical trial was conducted at a tertiary care teaching hospital attached to Ayurveda Medical College located in district headquarters. Overall, 15 subjects affected with CP were administered with Ayurveda treatment modalities that are inclusive of Udwarthana (dry powder massage), Sarvanga Abhyanaga (oil massage), Sarvanga Parisheka (pouring of warm liquid over a desired body part), Shirodhara (pouring of warm liquid over the head), Upanaha (warm poultice), Matra Basti (medicated enema), and Karnapoorana (administering warm oil into the ear canals) for a period of 15 days. The subjects were assessed before and after treatment for spasticity, muscle power, and range of movements of joints. The data were collected by using a case report form designed for the study. Such collected data were tabulated and analyzed by using Statistical package for social sciences (SPSS, version 20) by using an appropriate statistical test. Results: The intervention was found to be effective in reducing spasticity as well as in improving the movement of joints at P < 0.05. Conclusion: Holistic Ayurveda treatment modalities can be beneficially implemented for treating spasticity in children with CP.