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. 2010 May;39(5):904-13.
doi: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2009.09.018.

Iyengar yoga for young adults with rheumatoid arthritis: results from a mixed-methods pilot study

Subhadra Evans  1 , Mona Moieni, Rebecca Taub, Saskia K Subramanian, Jennie C I Tsao, Beth Sternlieb, Lonnie K Zeltzer
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Free article

Iyengar yoga for young adults with rheumatoid arthritis: results from a mixed-methods pilot study

Subhadra Evans et al. J Pain Symptom Manage. 2010 May.
Free article

Abstract

Context: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic disease that often impacts patient's quality of life. For young people with RA, there is a need for rehabilitative approaches that have been shown to be safe and to lead to improved functioning.

Objectives: This pilot study investigated the feasibility of a single-arm, group-administered, six-week, biweekly Iyengar yoga (IY) program for eight young adults with RA.

Methods: IY is known for its use of props, therapeutic sequences designed for patient populations, emphasis on alignment, and a rigorous teacher training. Treatment outcomes were evaluated using a mixed-methods approach that combined quantitative results from standardized questionnaires and qualitative interviews with participants.

Results: Initial attrition was 37% (n=3) after the first week because of scheduling conflicts and a prior non-RA related injury. However, the remaining participants (n=5) completed between 75% and 100% of treatment sessions (mean=95%). No adverse events were reported. The quantitative results indicated significant improvements in pain, pain disability, depression, mental health, vitality, and self-efficacy. Interviews demonstrated improvement in RA symptoms and functioning but uncertainty about whether the intervention affected pain.

Conclusion: These preliminary findings indicate that IY is a feasible complementary approach for young people with RA, although larger clinical trials are needed to demonstrate safety and efficacy.

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