Traditional Thai massage steps development in acute ischemic stroke patients

Stroke results in many survivors experiencing limb dysfunction and functional disability. Early rehabilitation has shown promise in improving recovery. Traditional Thai Massage (TTM) is noted for potential benefits in aiding stroke recovery. Chaophya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital in Thailand has integrated TTM in treating various diseases and has developed a specialized TTM protocol for acute stroke patients. We develop 23 unique Traditional Thai Massage Steps based on Chaophya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital Experience and assess the feasibility and safety of combining TTM steps with physical therapy (PT) in treating acute ischemic stroke compared to PT alone. 33 stroke patients were randomized into two groups: intervention (TTM + PT) and control (PT alone). The outcomes were improvements in daily living, quality of life, and acute stroke severity by using a modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score, Barthel index of activities of daily living (BI), National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), and the Stroke Specific Quality Of Life scale (SS-QOL). Both groups significantly improved outcomes over the 20-day study. However, there were no significant differences between the two groups in these measures. Both groups also reported no adverse effects from the treatments.•The 23 unique Traditional Thai Massage Steps for acute ischemic stroke based on Chaophya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital Experience are developed.•TTM protocols for acute ischemic stroke are practical and approved by well-trained Traditional Thai Medicine Practitioners.•Although TTM protocols do not show additional benefits to conventional PT at day 20 after treatment, their combinations for patients with acute ischemic stroke appear safe and feasible.