Comprehensive In-Patient Neuro-rehabilitation: Harnessing Yoga's Potential - A Pilot Study in Germany.

Abstract

Background: Neurological diseases require rehabilitation due to the disabling effects they induce, yet cost and therapist availability make long-term therapy difficult. However, innovative, cost-effective strategies that cater to patients' physical and mental requirements are vital to address this gap in care. Incorporating Yoga into in-patient neuro-rehabilitation holds promise as a complementary approach to enhance physical and mental recovery for individuals in a German neurological rehabilitation hospital. This study explores the potential benefits of integrating Yoga within the multimodal care framework, shedding light on its role in improving patient outcomes and overall well-being.

Objectives: To study the effect of integrated yoga therapy and multimodal rehabilitation techniques in the neuro-rehabilitation of Multiple Sclerosis, Stroke, and others in an in-patient setting.

Design and setting: A single group pre-post study was conducted at a neurological rehabilitation centre- KWA-Klinik, Stift Rottal, Bad Griesbach, Germany. Twenty patients (11 female and nine male, age 54.4 ± 9.50 years) with different neurological diseases (12-Multiple Sclerosis, 3-Stroke, 5- others) volunteered to participate in the study.

Intervention: The integrated yoga intervention was designed by experts from Yoga and neurology to suit neuro-rehabilitation patients. Yoga intervention included Breathing practices, yogic loosening practices, Rapid breathing (Kapalabhati), Alternate nostril breathing (Nadishuddi Pranayama), Physical postures (Asanas), and Relaxation techniques. Participants underwent yoga training for one hour daily, five days a week, for three weeks, along with other conventional rehabilitation procedures.

Outcome measures: The Pain Analog Scale and Spasticity Analog Scale were used to determine the extent of the problem. Barthel Index, Timed up and go Test, and Hand Grip Strength were used to determine the baseline functioning of a patient. Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) to assess anxiety and depression symptoms in patients.WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire used to assess QoL.

Results: There was a significant reduction in pain (66.97%, P = .001), spasticity (64.47%, P = .001), and anxiety scores (29.05%, P = .02). There is no significant decrease in depression scores (21.86%, P = .065). Improvement in Barthel index (10.38%, P < .001), timed up and go Test (11.63%, P = .001), and physical (4.92%, P = .031), psychological (4.79%, P = .036) and environmental domains (9.12%, P = .001) of WHOQOL-BREF. The results indicate that yoga therapy can effectively address common and debilitating symptoms associated with neurological disorders. Along with the improvement in daily living activities, mobility, and overall quality of life for patients with neurological conditions.

Conclusion: Incorporating Yoga into the neuro-rehabilitation regimen for in-patients at a German neurological rehabilitation hospital has proven both achievable and advantageous. The seamless inclusion of yoga sessions within the structured rehabilitation schedules demonstrates the practicality of this integration. Future studies should focus on exploring the long-term effects of Yoga in comparison with other complementary therapies in neuro-rehabilitation.