This study aims at developing, validating, and testing efficacy of an add on Integrated Yoga and Ayurveda (IYA) therapy program for post-stroke rehabilitation at the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru. With stroke being the second leading cause of death globally and a major cause of disability, there is a pressing need for holistic rehabilitation interventions.

The study employs a two-part methodology: first, developing and validating the IYA protocol through mixed methods research, and second, conducting a randomized controlled pilot study to test its feasibility. The protocol development phase involves thorough literature review of classical and modern texts, interviews with experienced practitioners, and expert validation using case summaries. The pilot study involves 60 participants (30 in each arm) who meet specific inclusion criteria, including being at least three weeks post-stroke and having sufficient cognition to follow commands.

The intervention combines specific yoga practices with traditional Ayurvedic treatments (including Shiropichu, Abhyanga Sveda, and Basti) over a 23-day period. The experimental group will receive this integrated therapy alongside standard care, while the control group will receive standard care alone. The study will measure multiple outcomes using validated assessment tools, including the Modified Rankin Scale for disability, 10 Meter Walk Test, Modified Ashworth Scale for spasticity, Berg Balance Scale for balance assessment, and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale for psychological well-being.

This research is particularly significant as it attempts to bridge traditional Indian healing systems with modern rehabilitation approaches. The integration of Yoga and Ayurveda offers potential benefits beyond physical rehabilitation, addressing psychological and quality-of-life aspects that are often overlooked in conventional stroke rehabilitation.