Combination of Ayurveda and Yoga therapy reduces pain intensity and improves quality of life in patients with migraine headache

Abstract

ObjectivesTo Understand the efficacy of Ayurveda and Yoga in the management of Migraine Headache. Methods30 subjects recruited to Ayurveda and Yoga (AY) group underwent traditional Panchakarma (Bio-purificatory process) using therapeutic Purgation followed by Yoga therapy, while 30 subjects of Control (CT) group continued on symptomatic treatment (NSAID's) for 90 days. Body constitution questionnaire was administered to both groups. The outcome measures included Symptom check list, Comprehensive Headache related Quality of Life Questionnaire and Visual Analogue Scale. ResultsForty-six (76.6%) out of 60 subjects belonging to both groups had Pitta based body constitution. Following 90 days of intervention the AY group showed significant reduction in Migraine symptoms including pain intensity (p < .001) and improvement in Headache related Quality of Life (p < .001). The CT group showed no significant change (p > .05). ConclusionTraditional Ayurveda along with Yoga therapy reduces symptoms, intensity of pain and improves Quality of life in Migraine patients.