Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder involving neuromuscular coordination, balance, and movement of the body. Cerebral palsy usually results from early brain damage within the first few months or years of life and may also result from infections such as bacterial meningitis or viral encephalitis, or from head injury. The symptoms of cerebral palsy include ataxia, spasticity, and a disturbed walking gait. In this condition, the muscles are either too stiff or too floppy and demonstrate exaggerated reflexes.
Ayurvedic herbal Treatment for cerebral palsy is aimed at treating the primary dysfunction of the brain as well as improving muscular tone and strength and neuromuscular coordination. Ayurvedic herbal medicines which have a strengthening action on the brain and individual nerve cells are used in high doses for prolonged periods in order to bring about improvement in the symptoms related to cerebral palsy. Ayurvedic herbal medicines which specifically improve neuromuscular coordination and also have a specific action on the muscles are also used in combination with the above-mentioned medicines.
Treatment for cerebral palsy is in the form of oral medication as well as localized application. Local applications include medicated oils which can be applied to specific affected parts of the body or to the entire body. Hot fomentation with medicated steam after the application of medicated oils also helps in improving muscular strength and tone. Herbal medicines which have a specific action on muscle and nerve tissue are basically very useful in the management and treatment of cerebral palsy.
Most people affected with cerebral palsy need treatment for prolonged periods which range from six months to two years, in order to get significant improvement in their symptoms. However, it is important to note that Ayurvedic herbal treatment can bring about a significant improvement in the quality of life of individuals affected with cerebral palsy.
Ayurvedic herbal treatment thus has a specific role to play in the management of cerebral palsy.
The writer, Dr. A. A. Mundewadi, is available as an online Ayurvedic Consultant at www.ayurvedaphysician.com
