Small studies suggest that yoga might have benefits.

Researchers at Group Health Research Institute, in Seattle, Washington, studied whether yoga is more effective than conventional stretching exercises or a self-care book for primary care patients with chronic low back pain.

First, the details.

• 228 adults with chronic low back pain were randomly assigned to a treatment group for 12 weekly classes.
• Yoga
• Conventional stretching exercises
• Self-care book
• Back-related functional status (modified Roland Disability Questionnaire, a 23-point scale) and bothersomeness of pain (an 11-point numerical scale) at 12 weeks were recorded.
• Outcomes were assessed at the start and at 6, 12, and 26 weeks by interviewers unaware of treatment group.

And, the results.

• 12-week outcomes for yoga group were significantly superior to the self-care group.
• At 26 weeks, function for the yoga group remained significantly superior.
• Yoga was not superior to conventional stretching exercises at any time.

The bottom line?

The authors concluded, “Yoga classes were more effective than a self-care book, but not more effective than stretching classes, in improving function and reducing symptoms due to chronic low back pain, with benefits lasting at least several months.”

1/9/12 19:58 JR