|
| Title:
|
A Yoga Intervention for Adults with Mild to Moderate Asthma |
| Status:
|
Completed |
| Topic:
|
CORP** Pilot Study |
| Funding Source:
|
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention |
| Funding Period:
|
10/01-3/03 |
| Study Design:
|
Randomized, Controlled, Double-Blind Pilot Study |
| Purpose:
|
To determine the effectiveness and feasibility of a yoga and breathwork intervention in improving health status (clinical indices and quality of life) for adult patients with mild to moderate asthma. |
| Further Study Details:
|
Although yoga has preliminary evidence associated with its effect on asthma, no previous studies used an active control group, as done in this study. A total of 62 men and women with mild to moderate asthma participated in this 16-week intervention. Participants were assigned to either the yoga group (active intervention) or stretching group (control); both groups attended structured classes for the first 4 weeks, then were instructed to continue the exercises learned in class for 3 more months at home. All participants were provided with an exercise mat, audiotape and print instructions. Assessments were conducted at baseline (before treatment), and at 4, 8, 12 and 16 weeks during the study. |
| Findings:
|
This pilot study of Iyengar yoga did not demonstrate evidence of benefit in people with mild-to-moderate asthma. However, these results did not preclude a possible benefit of yoga in specific patient populations, in patients with greater severity of disease, or by practicing a different school of yoga. Circumstances under which yoga could be of benefit in asthma management remain to be determined. |
| Eligibility:
|
Adult men and women with mild to moderate asthma. |