Health experts reveal how Yoga and physiotherapy can help in recovering from post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD
Recovery from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can be facilitated by complementary approaches like Yoga and physiotherapy, which have demonstrated their effectiveness in managing symptoms such as anxiety, intrusive thoughts, nightmares, and flashbacks alongside traditional therapies and medications.
Dr Amit Deshpande, Founder and Director of Activist, emphasized that post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can have a severe impact on mental health, but Yoga and physiotherapy offer promising methods for healing and managing symptoms. Yoga’s holistic approach, incorporating physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation, aids in regulating the nervous system and reducing anxiety and stress associated with PTSD.
Dr. Amit Deshpande highlighted that both Yoga and physiotherapy contribute to managing PTSD symptoms by promoting a sense of calmness and self-awareness through mindful movements and deep breathing, enhancing emotional resilience. Physiotherapy, on the other hand, focuses on restoring physical function and mobility, addressing physical symptoms like muscle tension and pain resulting from trauma. Moreover, both modalities provide a safe and supportive environment, fostering a sense of community and connection that can significantly aid in the recovery process from PTSD.
Dr. Rajeev Rajesh, the Chief Yoga Officer at Jindal Naturecure Institute in Bangalore, emphasized that Yoga, rooted in the ancient Indian subcontinent, is a mind-body discipline that combines physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation. It has proven effective in reducing anxiety, improving sleep, and promoting overall well-being. For individuals with PTSD, Yoga offers a safe space to reconnect with their bodies and process trauma in a nurturing environment. The physical asanas and intentional breathing techniques in Yoga regulate the autonomic nervous system, reducing hyperarousal and promoting relaxation. Moreover, Yoga’s focus on mindfulness helps individuals stay present, reducing intrusive thoughts and fostering self-awareness, further aiding in managing PTSD symptoms.
Dr. Rajeev Rajesh further explained that physiotherapy, on the other hand, is focused on improving functional movement and physical rehabilitation. It can be beneficial for individuals with PTSD in dealing with somatic symptoms, chronic pain, and other physical effects of trauma. Physiotherapy helps release tension, restore proper movement patterns, and enhance body awareness through techniques like manual therapy, exercises, and body awareness training. By addressing physical symptoms, physiotherapy indirectly reduces psychological distress and improves overall well-being.
Both Yoga and physiotherapy offer holistic approaches to healing and can complement existing PTSD treatments. However, it’s important to note that these methods may not be suitable for everyone and should only be implemented under the guidance of trained experts. By incorporating Yoga and physiotherapy into PTSD treatment plans, patients can gain additional coping skills and tools to manage their symptoms, ultimately enhancing their quality of life.
Dr. Sumit Gupta, HOD- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation at Regency Health, highlighted the benefits of Yoga and physiotherapy in preventing and managing PTSD:
1. Physiotherapists set specific goals for patients experiencing pain, and various techniques such as strengthening exercises, stability exercises, joint mobilization, needling, and motion exercises are used to reduce pain.
2. Breathing exercises like deep breathing, chest mobilization, and diaphragmatic breathing are prescribed by physiotherapists to help reduce stress and anxiety in patients.
3. Regular exercise is an effective method for managing anxiety and stress. Following a prescribed exercise plan, the body releases chemicals that can help reduce stress and anxiety, making it beneficial for PTSD patients.
By combining Yoga and physiotherapy, individuals with PTSD can experience holistic relief and improve their overall well-being. It is essential for patients to work closely with trained professionals to develop personalized treatment plans that suit their specific needs and conditions.