Evaluation of Efficacy of Unani Regimen in the Management of post Stroke Spasticity, an open observational Study

摘要

Physical rehabilitation and oral antispastic medications are essential in the management of post stroke spasticity, but former alone is inadequate and later causes frequent unwanted side effects. Unani physicians have been treating the disease since ancient times on the principle of Tanqiya (elimination of morbid matter) and Ta-deel (normalization of diseased organ). The limitations of contemporary treatment led to evaluate the efficacy of this therapy on scientific parameters. The study was conducted as open, observational clinical trial enrolling 30 eligible patients. Tanqiya was achieved by using Munzije Balgham and Mus-hile Balgham (in decoction form). Munzije Balgham was given for 13 days, once in the morning, along with 40 grams of Gulqande Asali. Mus-hile Balgham was given mixed with Munzije Balgham on 13th day of the study. Massage of the spastic limbs with Raughane Malkangni was started from 14th day till 28th day of the study for the purpose of Ta-deel. Patients were assessed for spasticity by MAS at baseline, 14th day and 28th day of treatment. Significant difference was observed in antigravity muscles between baseline and 28th day scores (p0.001) using Friedman test with Dunn-s multiple comparison test. Significant difference was observed between baseline and 14th day scores (p0.01) in elbow flexors. No significant adverse change appeared in safety parameters.The test regimen used on the principle of Tanqiya and Ta-deel was found effective in the treatment of spasticity, predominantly in antigravity muscles, probably by enhancing neuroplasticity and by neuroprotective and antispasmodic activities of used drugs.