Effectiveness of Ayurvedic Treatments for Enhancing the Life of Stroke Patients (With Special Reference to Ballaketuwa Rural Ayurveda Hospital in Badulla, Sri Lanka)
Abstract
Stroke is a consequence of modern lifestyle, ranks second in global mortality and is a primary cause of long-term disability, causing significant personal, social and economic burdens to the patient and patients’ family. Despite various treatment methods, there remains no universally accepted approach. Thus, the present study aims to investigate the efficiency of Ayurveda medicine as a treatment for stroke patients. Utilizing purposive sampling, data was gathered from 55 participants, including 50 ongoing treatment recipients at the hospital during the research period and 5 discharged patients. Structured interviews and observation methods were employed for data collection. Qualitative data was analyzed using the thematic analysis method and quantitative data was presented using Excel software. Results indicated that the majority (89%) of stroke patients were over 40 years old, with 58% being male. Initially, all patients experienced psychological distress post-stroke, but Ayurvedic treatments fostered mental (100%) and physical health (100%), along with heightened self-confidence (89%). Factors including adequate treatments, supportive environment, staff assistance, and positive social interactions contributed to this improvement. Furthermore, Patients reported seeing similar symptoms in peers, gradually regaining independence in daily activities, increased new hopes and faith about life have improved their mental health which leads to increase in the overall confidence level of the patients. Accordingly, the research concludes that community awareness on Ayurvedic treatments and their inpatient facilities is crucial, as they offer superior outcomes for stroke patients’ overall well-being.
