Ayurvedic Intervention of Viddhakarma in Stammering (Slutter Speech)

Abstract

Stammering (or stuttering) is a speech disorder characterized by disruptions in the flow of speech, such as repetitions, prolonged sounds, and pauses, often leading to difficulty in communication. While conventional speech therapies focus on improving fluency, they often fail to address the underlying emotional and psychological factors, such as anxiety, that contribute to stammering. Ayurveda, an ancient system of medicine, offers a holistic approach to managing stammering by balancing the body’s doshas (energetic forces), particularly the Vata dosha, which governs speech and the nervous system. This case study examines the effectiveness of Viddhakarma therapy, an Ayurvedic intervention involving the insertion of needles into specific Viddhakarma Points, in treating stammering. The patient, a 15-year-old male (P), had been struggling with stammering since the age of 5. Despite undergoing speech therapy for several years, P continued to experience significant speech disruptions and social anxiety. Based on Ayurvedic diagnosis, P’s stammering was attributed to a Vata imbalance, which was treated with Viddhakarma therapy, along with dietary modifications, herbal remedies, and relaxation techniques such as Pranayama (breathing exercises). Viddhakarma therapy was administered twice a week for 8 weeks, with focus on Viddhakarma points that regulate speech and nervous system functions. After 8 weeks, significant improvements were observed: P’s stammering decreased by 70%, with reduced repetitions and hesitations. Anxiety levels dropped by 60%, and P reported a noticeable increase in self-esteem and social engagement. This case study suggests that Viddhakarma therapy is a promising Ayurvedic treatment for stammering, addressing both physical and psychological components of the disorder. Further research is needed to explore its long-term efficacy and potential for broader application in speech therapy.