Complementary medicine use in stroke survivors: a US nationally representative survey

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Public Health
• Integrative Medicine

Background:

• Stroke is a leading global cause of death, often necessitating long-term rehabilitation.
• Complementary medicine (CM) is frequently used by neurological patients for prevention and rehabilitation.
• Limited data exists on CM use among stroke survivors compared to the general population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the prevalence and reasons for complementary medicine utilization in stroke survivors.
• To compare CM usage patterns between stroke survivors and individuals without a prior stroke diagnosis.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of the 2017 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) data (n=26,742).
• Examined consultations with CM practitioners within the past 12 months.
• Statistical analysis included adjusted odds ratios (AOR) and confidence intervals (CI).

Main Results:

• Individuals without stroke diagnosis were more likely to use CM (31.3% vs. 28.9%).
• Stroke survivors more frequently consulted naturopaths; others used chiropractors and mind-body medicine more.
• Common CM therapies for stroke survivors included spiritual meditation, progressive relaxation, and yoga.

Conclusions:

• Stroke patients utilized complementary medicine less frequently than the general population.
• Stroke survivors may benefit from enhanced information regarding safe and effective CM for prevention and rehabilitation.