Effect of short-term intensive yoga program on pain, functional disability and spinal flexibility in chronic low back pain: a randomized control study.
J Altern Complement Med. 2008 Jul;14(6):637-44
This randomised controlled study compared an intensive 7 day intervention of either a) yoga asana (postures), pranayama (breathing), and philosophy OR b) physical exercise under supervision of a physiatrist, and lectures on lifestyle change, for people with chronic low back pain.
The researchers were interested in pain scores and spinal flexibility. There was a significant reduction in pain scores in the yoga group as compared to the exercise group, and increased spinal flexibility in the yoga group in flexion, extension, and side bending as compared to the exercise group.
Yay for yoga! Yet another study that shows yoga can be an effective part of treatment for low back pain.
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