Naturopathy and Natural Therapies World Conference 2026

Abstract

Introduction

Although acute stroke care and conventional rehabilitation have advanced, many patients continue to experience residual functional deficits. As a result, there is growing interest in holistic and integrative rehabilitation strategies. In this context, the integration of Ayurveda with physiotherapy, Yoga, and music therapy is frequently employed in stroke rehabilitation and may enhance functional recovery and quality of life for patients with ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke.

Methods

To explore the impact of integrative care, a retrospective observational study was conducted involving 20 stroke patients (15 ischemic and 5 hemorrhagic) who participated in an integrative rehabilitation program for 24 days as part of routine clinical care. Ayurvedic management comprised internal medicines and external therapies, including Kizhi (pottali massage), Nasyam (nasal instillation), Sirodhara (oil poured over the head), Pizhichil (oil poured over the body), Vasthi (medicated enema)and Upanaham (medicated bandage), prescribed according to clinical presentation. Physiotherapy interventions targeted spasticity reduction, gait training, balance exercises, and functional task training. Yoga practices addressed physical limitations and mental stress, while music therapy supported emotional well-being. Functional outcomes were measured using the Barthel Index, and pre- and post-rehabilitation scores were compared using a paired t-test.

Results

The analysis of outcomes demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in Barthel Index scores after the rehabilitation program (t = 2.52, p = 0.021, df = 19). Importantly, no major adverse events occurred during the study period.

Conclusion

In summary, the integrative rehabilitation approach, which combined Ayurveda, physiotherapy, Yoga, and music therapy over a 24-day period, was associated with improved functional independence in this cohort of stroke patients. While these findings suggest a potential role for integrative rehabilitation in stroke care, larger prospective and controlled studies are warranted to validate these results.

Keywords:

Stroke, Integrative rehabilitation, Ayurveda, Physiotherapy, Yoga, Barthel Index