A to Z of MS Yoga
Yoga uses a combination of physical postures, breathing exercises, relaxation and meditation to try and reach optimal physical and mental health. There are few studies in MS, but anecdotal reports reinforce the view that deep relaxation and the strengthening of muscle control, which can be achieved using yoga, can be extremely beneficial for people with MS.
A randomised controlled trial of weekly Iyengar yoga and exercise in 69 people with MS found significant improvements in measures of fatigue and quality of life in the yoga and exercise groups compared to the control group. No effects on mood or cognitive dysfunction were reported.
Reference
Oken BS, et al.
Randomized controlled trial of yoga and exercise in multiple sclerosis.
Neurology 2004;62(11):2058-2064.
abstract