Abstract

ROLE OF SIDDHA THERAPEUTICS IN THE MANAGEMENT OF NEURODEVELOPMENTAL DELAY SECONDARY TO REPAIRED ENCEPHALOCELE: A CASE REPORT

*P. Rajavathana

ABSTRACT

Encephalocele is a rare congenital neural tube defect characterized by herniation of intracranial contents through a cranial defect. Although early surgical correction improves survival, many children continue to experience long-term neurological sequelae, including global developmental delay and motor impairment. In Siddha medicine, such pediatric neuromuscular dysfunctions are correlated with derangement of Vatham and are described under Balar Vatham. A 5-year-old female child with a history of surgically repaired encephalocele and unilateral right ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement on the fourth day of life presented with unable to walk independently without support. Although the child was able to speak clearly and communicate her needs, gross motor development was significantly delayed, and Neurological examination revealed mild motor weakness in the lower limb. The child was treatedwith a Siddha therapeutic regimen consisting of internal medicines such as Dharany Brahmee Syrup, Ashwagandhathi Chooranam, and Deshanthun Kalka, along with external therapies including body massage with Nirgundiyathi oil and Maha Narayana oil and herbal bath. The treatment aimed to pacify the deranged Vatham, enhance neuromuscular strength, and improve functional mobility. Following treatment, gradual improvement in lower limb strength, coordination, and balance was observed. Most notably, the child achieved independent walking without support, which had not been accomplished prior to treatment. This case highlights the potential role of Siddha therapeutic management in facilitating motor milestone attainment in children with developmental delay secondary to repaired Encephalocele. Structured Vatha-pacifying and neuromuscular-strengthening interventions may contribute for functional improvement, warranting further systematic clinical evaluation.

Keywords: Developmental delay, Encephalocele, Siddha medicine, Balar Vatham, Pediatric neurology.