Trends in Sowa Rigpa and disability research in the Trans-Himalayan region: A bibliometric analysis

Abstract

Introduction: Despite increasing global recognition of Sowa Rigpa, research examining its role in disability and rehabilitation remains underrepresented. This study mapped and analysed the scientific literature on Sowa Rigpa with a particular focus on disability and rehabilitation.
Methods: This bibliometric analysis included publications retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection covering the period from 2014 to 2024. Bibliographic records were analysed using Bibliometrix package in R 4.4.2. Science mapping techniques were employed to evaluate publication trends, collaboration networks, source journals, geographic distribution, and keyword co-occurrence patterns.
Results: A total of 78 publications were included from the 1,291 records initially identified. Scientific production demonstrated a gradual increase over the study period. The literature was disseminated across interdisciplinary journals encompassing traditional medicine, public health, disability studies, and social sciences. Collaboration networks revealed limited international partnerships and relatively fragmented research groups. Keyword co-occurrence analysis identified major thematic clusters related to traditional healing practices, mental health, wellbeing, social inclusion, and cultural perspectives of disability. Research output was geographically concentrated, with China contributing the largest number of publications. However, studies specifically addressing rehabilitation, disability services, inclusive health systems, and empirical evaluations of Sowa Rigpa interventions were scarce, indicating substantial evidence gaps and underdeveloped research domains.
Conclusion: Research on Sowa Rigpa and disability remains limited but is gradually expanding. Future interdisciplinary studies are needed to explore the potential role of Sowa Rigpa in disability care and rehabilitation while strengthening the evidence base for its integration into inclusive healthcare and rehabilitation practices.