Ayurvedic management of Neonatal Brachial Plexus Palsy : A Case Study w.r.t. Ekangavata (Prasavakaleena Abhigataja Vyadhi)

Abstract

Background: Neonatal brachial plexus palsy (NBPP) occurs secondary to traumatic injury to the brachial plexus in the perinatal period. It is a commonly encountered problem on the postnatal wards with the potential for significant morbidity. Congenital brachial plexus palsy (CBPP) results in a flaccid paresis of the upper limb at birth with a greater passive range of limb movement than active. It is usually unilateral but can be bilateral. Significant risk factors include shoulder dystocia, macrosomia, instrumental delivery and prolonged second stage of labour. Prognosis is variable and dependent on the type and level of nerve injury with total plexus palsies having the worst prognosis. Case Presentation: A 13-year-old female patient with the diagnosis of brachial plexopathy reported to OPD with complaints of weakness of right upper limb since birth associated with stiffness of right shoulder joint and difficulty in Range of Movements. The patient was treated with Ayurvedic therapeutic interventions such as Sweda along with Vatakaphahara and Vatahara Shamanoushadhis, Sthanika Seka, Sarvanga Abhyanga and Sarvanga Shashtika Shaali Pindasweda, Sthanika Annalepa, Veshtana, in the form of Upanaha & Nasya Karma, were prescribed. Conclusion: After 10 days of treatment, there was marked relief in the symptoms in the form of reduced weakness and stiffness of right upper limb and in Range of movements. The above treatment protocol along with oral medications has shown significant result clinically in the present study.