Fiji is facing a growing public health concern as the incidence of stroke continues to rise, particularly in its remote island communities where access to rehabilitation services is often limited and long-term care can be expensive. In light of this alarming trend, the VUDA Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinic, headed by Dr. Pai, a seasoned practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has initiated a “Stroke Recovery Initiative.” This initiative aims to provide early intervention through therapies such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, and moxibustion, offering new hope to stroke survivors throughout the islands.
The early application of these traditional techniques has resulted in remarkable improvements for many patients in mobility, speech, and daily functioning. One standout case involved 64-year-old Ishwar Chand, who experienced left-sided paralysis following a stroke. Remarkably, just one month of consistent TCM treatment allowed him to regain the ability to speak and stand, enabling him to return to his daily activities. His recovery journey captured significant public attention on social media, amassing over 165,000 views, and reaffirming the effectiveness of acupuncture in stroke recovery.
Dr. Pai emphasizes the urgency of timely intervention, stating, “Stroke recovery is a race against time, especially in tropical climates where muscle atrophy sets in faster.” He dispels the common belief that treatment should only commence after a stroke survivor’s condition stabilizes, instead advocating for immediate TCM interventions designed to unblock meridians and preserve essential functions.
To further raise awareness about stroke signs and the need for prompt actions, VUDA TCM promotes the “FAST+” acronym which stands for:
– F – Face drooping
– A – Arm weakness
– S – Speech difficulty
– T – Time to seek help
– + – Ask for TCM assessment
Dr. Pai reflects on the harmony between Fijian herbs and Chinese moxa, suggesting that such integrative approaches to healing help bridge cultural divides. VUDA TCM is dedicated to serving the local community with holistic care in the hope of restoring health and vitality to families impacted by stroke.
This initiative by VUDA TCM Clinic signifies a proactive move towards addressing the increasing challenges posed by strokes in Fiji. The blend of traditional practices with patient-centered care paves the way for enhanced recovery options and inspires hope for stroke survivors and their loved ones in the region.
With rising cases of stroke, it’s imperative to embrace both innovative treatments and preventative measures to foster a healthier future for the community.

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