Improvements in quality of life with modified yoga for persons with arthritis

Background. Arthritis is a chronic, painful disease affecting 26 million Americans. It is the leading cause of disability and is associated with joint destruction, loss of function, deformity, depression and poor quality of life (QOL). Physical activity is recommended for comprehensive arthritis management. Unfortunately, most individuals who start an exercise program do not continue. Yoga is an ancient Indian practice that combines physical activity with deep breathing, relaxation and meditation. By addressing physical and psychological aspects of health, it may be beneficial for arthritis patients and contribute to greater QOL. Methods. A randomized controlled trial is underway to determine the effects of an 8-week modified yoga program on QOL for sedentary adults with arthritis. The intervention includes 2 weekly yoga sessions and one hour of home practice. The control group is a waitlist with usual care. QOL is measured using the SF-36 before, during and after the intervention, as well as 6 months later. Results. The first 31 participants to enroll were mostly middle-aged Caucasian females, a majority of whom were college educated and had an average symptom duration of 12 years. At baseline, QOL was impaired for all physical aspects of QOL. To date, 6 participants completed the intervention and 5 completed the control period. Significant differences were seen between groups for most dimensions of QOL. Additional available data will be reported. Conclusion. Preliminary evidence suggests that regular practice of modified yoga may help improve QOL for patients with arthritis. Further investigation is necessary to confirm these findings.