Stroke recovery in rural Malaysia: the role of the Islamic faith

Clinical rehabilitation improves long-term functional outcomes and lessens hospitalisation following a stroke. However, there is a need to identify alternative mechanisms that could lead to improved function beyond clinical recovery. There exists a paucity of information highlighting the role of religion amongst Muslim stroke survivors during the stroke recovery process. This study addresses the lacuna by examining the role of Islam in stroke recovery for people living in rural Malaysia using an ethnographic approach. Healthcare providers need to recognise the value of religion when attending to the care of patients by offering a holistic approach that would include supporting coping strategies and adaptation based on religious beliefs.