Siddha Management of Siravatham (Cerebral Palsy)-A Case Study

Abstract

Siravatham, a disorder affecting the Moolai (the brain) is characterized by the inability to use both upper and lower limbs, walking difficulties, drooling of saliva, speech impediments, heightened fear and anxiety due to vazhi disarrangement. In the Siddha system of medicine, Cerebral Palsy is closely correlated with Siravatham, presenting as a neuromotor disorder in children, with an incidence of 7/1000 in India. This condition results in a permanent dependency of the child on their parents for daily activities, necessitating a holistic therapeutic approach. Excel Medical College and Research Centre is committed to providing medical service to children with this condition, attracting numerous referrals from various parts of India. Siddha, with its specialized branch in child care known as Kuzhanthai Maruthuvam, plays a crucial role in addressing the unique needs of these children. A single case study conducted in the outpatient department from October 2023 to December 2023 aimed to manage Siravatham in a nine-year-old male child. Despite previous treatments by various doctors showing no significant improvement, the parents turned to Siddha treatment for management. This article documents the outcomes of the Siddha treatment, focusing on the child's improvement in angular salivation, vocalization, postural stability and socio-behavioural changes. The findings contribute valuable insights into the effectiveness of Siddha therapy in managing Siravatham.