Functional and physiological effects of yoga in women with rheumatoid arthritis: a pilot study.

CONTEXT

Stress, both psychological and physiological, has been implicated as having a role in the onset and exacerbations of rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated whether neuroendocrine and physical function in women with RA can be altered through a yoga intervention.

DESIGN

Exercise intervention.

SETTING

University research conducted at a medical clinic.

PARTICIPANTS

Sixteen independently living, postmenopausal women with an RA classification of I, II, or III according to the American College of Rheumatology functional classification system served as either participants or controls.

INTERVENTION

The study group participated in three 75-minute yoga classes a week over a 10-week period.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

At baseline and on completion of the 10-week intervention, diurnal cortisol patterns and resting heart rate were measured. Balance was measured using the Berg Balance Test. Participants completed the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HIQ), a visual analog pain scale, and the Beck Depression Inventory.

RESULTS

Yoga resulted in a significantly decreased HAQ disability index, decreased perception of pain and depression, and improved balance. Yoga did not result in a significant change in awakening or diurnal cortisol patterns (P = .12).