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An Integrated Approach of Neurotherapy and Ayurveda in the Management of Hypotonic Cerebral Palsy: A Case Study

*Abstract:* Hypotonic cerebral palsy is a rare yet debilitating form of cerebral palsy, impacting muscle tone, motor function, and coordination. Early diagnosis and intervention are essential for enhancing the quality of life for individuals with this condition. Ayurveda categorizes hypotonic cerebral palsy under Vaatvyadhi, which includes disorders caused by imbalances in the Vaat and Pitta doshas. This case study examines the treatment of Shivangi, a 3.5-year-old diagnosed with hypotonic cerebral palsy at 8 months. Her treatment utilizes an integrated approach, combining neurotherapy and Ayurveda, to improve muscle tone, motor function, and overall health. This combination offers a holistic and personalized treatment plan that addresses the condition’s root causes and promotes overall well-being.

*Introduction:* Hypotonic cerebral palsy is a complex condition necessitating a multidisciplinary treatment approach. Neurotherapy and Ayurveda offer complementary strategies, targeting underlying bodily imbalances and supporting holistic health and well-being.

*Case Report:* Shivangi, a 3.5-year-old girl, was diagnosed with hypotonic cerebral palsy at 8 months. She exhibited low muscle tone, poor head control, and delayed motor milestones. A detailed history revealed clubfoot at birth, corrected with plastering. Key findings included delays in sitting, walking, neck holding, drooling, speech delays, discomfort affecting brain function, lack of professional therapy, loose muscle control, slight delays in responsiveness, low receptivity, minimal activity participation, inability to express natural needs, and lack of questioning ability.

From 2019 to 2022, multiple investigations were conducted:

*2019:* SMA (Spinal Muscular Atrophy) testing indicated no symptoms, but one copy of SMN1 was absent, suggesting an SMA carrier state.
– *2020:* MRI Brain showed normal results. Screening for inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) was negative. Ammonia levels were high, though Shivangi was asymptomatic.
*2021:* SGOT and SGPT levels were borderline high. Total protein levels were low. Hemoglobin levels were low. Parathyroid hormone (PTH) was borderline low. EEG results were normal.
*2022:* CK Creatinine, crucial for skeletal and cardiac toning, was assessed. Examination revealed a myopathic face, bilateral temporal hollowing, non-paralytic hypotonia, atrophy of thenar and hypothenar muscles, bilateral congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV), and absent deep tendon reflexes (DTR). Initially, Shivangi received multivitamin therapy for global developmental delay.

Shivangi’s treatment plan integrated neurotherapy and Ayurveda. Neurotherapy aimed to enhance muscle tone, coordination, and motor function through sensory integration and neurodevelopmental techniques. Ayurvedic treatment included herbal remedies, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle modifications to balance doshas, strengthen the nervous system, and enhance overall health.

*Discussion:* An integrated approach combining neurotherapy and Ayurveda offers a holistic and individualized treatment plan for hypotonic cerebral palsy. Neurotherapy addresses neurological imbalances, promoting new neural pathway development, while Ayurveda offers herbal remedies, dietary changes, and lifestyle adjustments that support the nervous system and overall well-being. Treatment prioritized addressing root causes over symptoms, using self-formulated pharmacological preparations, including:

*EN Liver:* To stimulate liver function.
*EN Kabaz:* To alleviate constipation symptoms.
– *EN Bacopa:* To relax the brain, promote sound sleep, reduce brain hyperactivity, regenerate brain cells, and enhance connectivity with muscles and tissues.
*EN Bone Health (Moringa, Amla):* To strengthen bones, improve mobility, and rejuvenate the body.

*Observations:* After five months of integrated treatment, Shivangi’s parents observed significant improvements, including better sitting ability, improved neck control, a strong desire to walk, no drooling, enhanced speech, improved brain function, increased comfort, normal muscle control, better responsiveness, strong emotional connections, enhanced receptivity, greater participation in activities, increased curiosity, and the ability to communicate needs.

*Conclusion:* Hypotonic cerebral palsy, though rare, significantly affects muscle tone, motor function, and coordination. An integrated approach using neurotherapy and Ayurveda provides a holistic and individualized treatment plan, as demonstrated in Shivangi’s case. This approach emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary strategy in managing hypotonic cerebral palsy. Further research is necessary to explore the efficacy of integrated treatments for this condition.