Yoga Alleviates Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis

Yoga improves the overall quality of life of multiple sclerosis patients, a new research by the Rutgers School of Health Related Professions shows.

Multiple sclerosis is an auto-immune disease affecting the brain and central nervous system.

Susan Gould Fogerite, director of research for the Institute for Complementary and Alternative Medicine in the School of Health Related Professions, explains that even though yoga is widely used by people with MS, most of the feedback is been anecdotal and there is not much experimental data regarding its safety and efficacy.

A small pilot study was conducted by the researchers to understand the effects of yoga on MS patients. After the eight-week trial, the team found that patients who practiced yoga were better able to walk for short distances and longer periods of time. Moreover, they also had better balance while reaching backwards along with fine motor coordination.

"Yoga is not just exercise, it is a whole system of living," said Fogerite, an associate professor, in the press release. "The panel of experts who advised us on the trial wanted to make sure that we provided a fully integrated program that included philosophy, breathing practices, postures, relaxation and meditation."

"This study, I hope, is one of many that will give us the clinical information we need," said Fogerite. "Yoga is not currently being widely prescribed for people with MS, although it might turn out to be a very helpful treatment."

The researchers will present the study September 26 at the Symposium on Yoga Research at the Kripalu Institute in Massachusetts.