Can Yoga Help Arthritis? American study concludes that yoga is beneficial to those suffering from arthritis, reducing pain and putting yoga as a complementary therapy.
Yoga may be particularly suitable for people with arthritis because it combines physical activity with strong stress management and relaxation techniques and focuses on respecting limitations that can change from day to day.
All those who took part in the study had osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is caused by the wear and tear of cartilage, which helps the joints take the pressure of bending, lifting and gripping the knees. Rheumatoid arthritis, in which the immune system attacks the joints, makes them swollen and painful. Research has shown that ancient Eastern art eases the symptoms of both forms.
Arthritis cannot be cured and long-term use with strong painkillers carries the risk of heart problems and stomach problems.
While exercise can help, there have been concerns that yoga may not be safe because of the stress on the joints.
75 men and women with arthritis took part in the study. Half did two yoga classes a week as well as a home practice, and the other half followed their daily schedule.
After two months, those who practiced yoga saw 20% improvement in pain, energy levels, mood and physical function, and increased walking speed.
The first step was to ensure that yoga was a reasonable and safe option for people with arthritis. The instructors were experienced yoga therapists with additional training to modify and adapt individual capabilities.
Arthritis patients (in collaboration with their doctor) who are interested in choosing a complementary therapy should find a teacher, inform them of the limitations and have a close collaboration on the practice they will follow, starting with light exercises- yoga. The study was published in The Journal of Rheumatology.
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