Study suggests Yoga can combat fibromyalgia
Monday 25th October, 2010
Researchers at the Oregon Health & Science University have suggested that Yoga may be an effective treatment for fibromyalgia.
Fibromyalgia is a syndrome causing chronic muscle pain and fatigue with associated symptoms of sleep problems, headaches, memory problems and tingling or numbing sensations.
Previous studies into the condition have concluded that a combination of medication, exercise and coping skills are the most effective treatments but this latest research focused on whether Yoga should be considered as a prescribed treatment.
The study involved 53 female participants diagnosed with fibromyalgia. Assigned to two research groups, the first took part in an eight-week program of Yoga with the second group receiving standard medication treatment.
Comparing the data between the two groups, researchers found that Yoga significantly assisted in combating symptoms such as pain, fatigue, muscle stiffness, sleep problems, depression, anxiety, memory problems and balance issues. Pain reduced in the Yoga group by an average of 24 per cent, fatigue by 30 per cent and depression by 42 per cent.
The study appeared in the online version of the journal ‘Pain’ on October 14th.