Introduction and background

Cerebral palsy(CP) is a condition marked by impaired coordination (spastic paralysis) and/or other disabilities typically caused by brain damage before / at birth. It occurs in 1.5 -4 per 1000 live birth. Multi-disciplinary interventions are scientifically proven as yielding in children with CP. This work shows impact of multidisciplinary intervention combining ayurvedic procedure-based therapy along with conventional approach of physiotherapy in CP.

Aim and objectives

To test efficacy of Ayurveda treatment protocol and combined effect of Ayurveda and skilled physiotherapy in children with CP.

Materials and method

Studyincluded 40 children admitted in VPSV Ayurveda college hospital grouped under two categories– general ward (GW) and special ward (SW), 20 each. General Ayurvedic protocol of CP including abhyangam, udhwarthanam, mathra vasthi, nasya and upanaha was done for 3 years in both. Besides, SW group received regular skilled physiotherapy also. Assessment of spasticity was done in MAS and motor function was assessed in GMFCSE & R system.

Observations

Comparable and appreciable outcome in tone and motor activities was noticed in both groups. Reduction in tone of muscles seen more in SW group with regular physiotherapy.

Result

Statistically significant changes were observed (p<0.05) in spasticity and GMFCSE & R in both groups. Moreover, in GW group the observations were noticeable in inviting scientific discussion on the basis of percentage of relief.

Conclusion

Ayurvedic treatment protocol in CP can significantly improve quality of life of children, which can be enhanced further by multi-disciplinary approach combining Ayurveda protocol and physiotherapy.