Synergistic Integration of Ayurveda and Physiotherapy in Parkinson’s Disease Management: A Comprehensive Review of Evidence and Clinical Perspectives

Abstract

In Ayurveda, Parkinson’s disease closely resembles Kampavata, a Vata-dominant neurological condition characterized by tremors, rigidity and motor dysfunction. This paper presents a stage-wise integrative approach combining Ayurvedic principles with physiotherapy to optimize rehabilitation and EOL care in PD. Methods:  The Hoehn and Yahr Scale is a clinical scale that stages the severity of Parkinson’s disease (PD) based on motor symptoms and functional disability, with stages ranging from early unilateral symptoms (Stage 1) to severe bedridden or wheelchair bound states (Stage 5). A stage-wise model of integrative care was developed based on literature reviews, classical Ayurveda texts, and clinical observations. Review Findings: In early stages (Stage 1 and Stage 2), Ayurvedic interventions include dietary modulation and lifestyle recommendations to manage Vata dosa imbalance and promotive Panchakarma in the form of Abhyantara snehana, Bahya snehana like Murdhni taila and Abhyanga, Abhyantara rasayana prayogas while physiotherapy includes gait training, posture correction and co-ordination exercises. In mid stage (Stage 3 and Stage 4), Panchakarma treatments like Snigdha virechana, Rasayana basti prayogas like Yapana bastis, Sneha nasya and Nasapana and physiotherapic interventions like resistance training, balance exercises and fall prevention strategies (in Stage 3) and interventions like assisted mobility, respiratory exercises and caregiver-assisted transfers may be followed (in Stage 4). In end-of-life stage (Stage 5), Satvic diet, Samvahana / Mridu abhyanga (gentle oil applications), Matrabasti. Conclusion: This stage-wise integrative model emphasizes that combining Ayurveda and physiotherapy can offer complementary benefits throughout the Parkinson’s disease continuum. The approach shows promise for broader application in integrative neuro-rehabilitation and palliative care frameworks.