Management of Functional Status of a Floppy Child with Ayurveda and Panchakarma: A Case Report

Abstract

The floppy (hypotonic) condition often presents with abnormally lower muscle tone, resulting in the limpness of the body. Antigravity muscle movements are difficult to perform. This case had a brain lesion due to hypoxic–ischemic encephalopathy inside the cerebrum. Hypotonic cases in Ayurveda are close to Vata Vayadhi (~Diseases due to Vata dosha alleviation) with Avarana (~occlusion) due to Shiromarmaghata (~damage to the brain). This state is with symptoms such as Chestanasha (~loss of movement), Gatra vikshep sanga (~restricted body movements), and Sarveshu Skhalitam Cha Gatau Bhrusham (~fall during the walk) close to hypotonic status. In this article, a 2 and a ½-year-old male child with diagnosed hypotonic status and delayed milestones attended Kaumarbhritya outpatient department. He was not able to balance or stand with support and would lie down while sitting. He was managed according to Ayurveda guidelines for 180 days. The case was provided oral Ayurveda medications, Panchakarma therapy, and some basic exercises. The case was assessed after 60 days for the outcome of the treatment. After 180 days, a multifaceted improvement is seen. The patient started standing and walking without support, and his power grade of muscle and joints also improved. His advanced daily living activities that scored 10, before treatment improved to 70, after treatment (AT). With all-around improvement, his Gross Motor Functional Classification System score also improved from 3 to 1, AT. Magnetic resonance imaging changes were seen after a period of treatment, showing gliotic changes AT reflecting healing and neuroplastic changes. Conclusively, early intervention with Ayurveda can change the functional status in hypotonic conditions.

Keywords

• avarana and shiromarmaghata
• hypotonic cerebral palsy
• panchakarma
• vata vyadhi