An explorative clinical study to evaluate the combined effect of Shiropichu, Sthanika Abhyanga, Salvana Upanaha Sweda and Balarishta in the management of Pakshaghata vis~a~vis Hemiplegia

Abstract

Pakshaghata is one among the Vata Nanatmaja Vyadhi, characterised by loss of function either in right or left half of the body. Pakshaghata is also considered among the ailments of Madhyama Roga Marga. Signs and symptoms of Pakshaghata is similar to that of stroke with hemiplegia as the cardinal clinical feature. It makes the affected person physically disabled and reduces quality of life. Even though western science had moved for in acute management of stroke, it is very difficult to handle the residual effect of stroke which makes person physically and mentally debilitated. In case of managing residual cases, it depends on physiotherapy and exercises, which gives good results if combined with Ayurvedic treatments such as Abhyanga. Present study is a single group open clinical trial with pre and post-test design with a sample size of 30 subjects. Subjects were administered with Shiropichu, Sthanika Abhyanga, Salvana Upana Sweda for first 10 consecutive days and Shamanaaushadha for all 30 days. The results obtained on parameter muscle power, muscle tone, finger movements and deep tendon reflexes was statistically non-significant in the management of Pakshaghata vis-à-vis hemiplegia. The results obtained on parameter stroke specific quality of life scale showed statistically significant result with p value 0.005 in the management of Pakshaghata vis-à-vis hemiplegia. Hence, it was inferred that the intervention selected for the present study possess combined effect in improving the quality of life of individual affected with Pakshaghata vis-à-vis Hemiplegia.