Yoga como terapia complementaria para el Adulto Mayor / Yoga as a complementary therapy for older adult

Introducción: El yoga es una actividad que trata de un ejercicio el cual contiene una intensidad baja a moderada, la cual no se centra exclusivamente en el entrenamiento físico, sino que también en el desarrollo de la mente y el espíritu de uno mismo. El yoga puede obtener un mayor impacto en el equilibrio y en la ganancia de fuerza de la parte superior del cuerpo, además, demuestra mejora en la aptitud cardiorrespiratoria y flexibilidad. Metodología: El enfoque de desarrollo fue de tipo cuantitativo en donde se realizó una revisión sistemática como metodología de búsqueda de información, relacionada al yoga como una terapia complementaria y los beneficios que éste aportaba al bienestar de las personas mayores. Resultados: En cada uno de los ensayos controlados aleatorizados que fueron recabados para fines de esta revisión sistemática. Se destaca la importancia y los beneficios del yoga en la movilidad, fuerza, flexibilidad y espiritualidad de los usuarios que practican esta terapia. Discusión: Los artículos analizados pertenecen a ensayos clínicos o estudios aleatorizados, los cuales permitieron responder de manera efectiva a nuestra pregunta de investigación, la cual consiste en reconocer si el yoga es efectivo para disminuir el riesgo de dependencia funcional y eliminar hábitos que no son saludables para las personas mayores, además de mejorar la calidad de vida actual. Gracias a ello se pudo evidenciar que esta terapia en adultos mayores genera cambios positivos respecto a estado y condición física, la ejecución de esta práctica mejora la calidad de vida en un 80% Conclusión: La yoga como terapia complementaria si entrega beneficios en la calidad de vida de la población adulta mayor, dado que, que hubo una mejora tanto en la movilidad, calidad de vida y autovalencia de los adultos mayores[AU]

Introduction: Yoga is an activity that deals with a low to moderate intensity exercise, which is not exclusively focused on physical training, but also on the development of the mind and spirit itself. Yoga may have a greater impact on balance and upper body strength gains, and have shown improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness and flexibility. Methodology:the development approach was of a quantitative type where a systematic review was carried out as a methodology for searching for information related to yoga as a complementary therapy and the benefits that it brought to the well-being of the elderly. Results:The importance and benefits of yoga on the mobility, strength, flexibility and spirituality of users who practice this therapy are highlighted in each of the randomized controlled trials that were collected for the purposes of this systematic review. Discussion: The articles analyzed belong to clinical trials or randomized studies, which allowed us to effectively answer our research question. The activity of yoga in older adults generates positive changes regarding state and physical condition, the execution of this practice improves the quality of life by 80% Conclusion: Yoga as a complementary therapy delivers benefits in the quality of life of the adult population elderly, it can be said that there was an improvement in mobility, quality of life and self-valence of the elderly[AU]

Introdução: O Yoga é uma atividade que trata de um exercício de intensidade baixa a moderada, que não se foca exclusivamente no treino físico, mas também no desenvolvimento da mente e do espí-rito. A ioga pode ter um impacto maior no equilíbrio e nos ganhos de força da parte superior do corpo e mostrou melhorias na apti-dão cardiorrespiratória e flexibilidade. Metodologia: a abordagem de desenvolvimento foi do tipo quantitativo onde foi realizada uma revisão sistemática como metodologia de busca de informações re-lacionadas ao yoga como terapia complementar e os benefícios que trouxe para o bem-estar dos idosos. Resultados: A importância e os benefícios do yoga na mobilidade, força, flexibilidade e espiri-tualidade dos usuários que praticam esta terapia são destacados em cada um dos ensaios clínicos randomizados que foram coletados para fins desta revisão sistemática. Discussão: Os artigos analisa-dos pertencem a ensaios clínicos ou estudos randomizados, o que nos permitiu responder de forma eficaz à nossa questão de inves-tigação. A atividade de yoga em idosos gera mudanças positivas quanto ao estado e condição física, a execução desta prática mel-hora a qualidade de vida em 80% Conclusão: o yoga como terapia complementar traz benefícios na qualidade de vida da população adulta idosa, pode-se dizer que houve melhora na mobilidade, qualidade de vida e autovalência dos idosos[AU]

Yoga as an Adjunctive Treatment for Chronic Low Back Pain: A Narrative Review.

BACKGROUND: Yoga has been recognized for its many mental and physical health benefits. A growing body of literature supports yoga's indication in chronic low back pain (CLBP) management. CLBP is a major public health concern, given its high rates of associated disabilities and large healthcare costs. A biopsychosocial approach has been deemed the most effective and appropriate management strategy for this condition. When alternative and comprehensive approaches for managing the complexity of CLBP are considered, yoga poses a safe, accessible adjunctive treatment option. OBJECTIVES: The goal of this review is to demonstrate, by highlighting yoga's benefits on mental and physical health and the pathophysiology associated with CLBP, that yoga is an effective form of CLBP management. Our other goal is to establish that yoga encompasses a biopsychosocial approach to managing CLBP. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: After thorough examination of the available published literature, this narrative review evaluated 24 articles examining yoga's benefits to CLBP patients. RESULTS: CLBP is associated with high rates of anxiety, depression, chronic stress, and pain catastrophizing. Numerous studies support yoga as an effective intervention for depression, anxiety, chronic stress, and pain catastrophizing, given yoga's effects on the sympathetic nervous system, endocrine system, and various neurotransmitters and brain regions, and improvements in these areas may ameliorate the clinical symptoms experienced by CLBP patients. Physically, symptoms experienced by those with CLBP include pain, impaired function and mobility, disability, fatigue, and medication dependence, all of which, according to the literature, yoga has been shown to improve. Additionally, the chronicity and persistence of low back pain are related to central and peripheral sensitization, and yoga may intervene in these pathways to minimize symptom propagation. LIMITATIONS: This review is not without limitations. The current literature lacks standardization regarding which yoga poses are safe, appropriate, and effective for CLBP patients, which limits the generalizability of yoga therapy. Additionally, few existing prospective trials study yoga in the management of CLBP. Though numerous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are included in this review, most of the current literature details other reviews or analyses of RCTs, includes smaller sample sizes, and lacks long-term follow-up data. Furthermore, many of these studies include patients who have volunteered or self-selected to trial yoga therapy for their back pain, indicating inherent selection bias. CONCLUSION: Overall, the current management strategies for CLBP do not encompass an effective biopsychosocial approach, and an intervention such as yoga is a promising adjunctive treatment for the condition.

Hatha yoga reduces momentary stress but does not impact diurnal profiles of salivary cortisol and alpha-amylase: A randomized controlled trial.

Does the practice of yoga impact stress? Various studies have suggested that yoga may reduce both self-reported stress and stress biomarkers, but the evidence for such claims remains inconclusive, especially for yoga styles with a focus on physical postures. In a randomized controlled trial with 98 participants, we therefore examined whether an eight-week Hatha yoga intervention (60 min, 3×/week or more) led to reduced levels of diurnal salivary cortisol (sCort), salivary alpha-amylase (sAA), and subjective momentary stress as compared to a waitlist control group. To ensure the concomitant assessment of self-report and biological measures in an ecologically valid setting, and to capture the diurnal profile of cortisol and alpha-amylase, we employed an ecological momentary assessment approach. Five times per day, participants reported their momentary stress levels on a visual analogue scale and collected saliva samples for the assessment of salivary biomarkers. The intervention led to a significant reduction of subjective momentary stress but there was no change in diurnal sCort or sAA levels. There are several potential explanations for these findings: The intervention may have helped participants to cope better with stress while leaving diurnal levels of stress biomarkers unaffected, or the change may at least not have been reflected in sCort and sAA. Alternatively, there may have been a self-report bias, insofar as a favorable disposition towards yoga may have led participants to report reductions in stress in order to indicate positive effects of the intervention. Our findings contribute to a better understanding of the effects of distinct yoga interventions, demonstrating their potential to serve as low-risk stress relief tools.

[Summarising the efficiency of psychological interventions in the treatment of endometriosis]. / Az endometriózis pszichológiai ellátásában használatos beavatkozások hatékonyságának összegzése.

Endometriosis is a common gynecological disease affecting 5-10% of women resulting in several psychological impacts. Regarding the high prevalence as well as extensive somatic symptoms, this has become a growing issue of psychological research in recent years. Thanks to its rising importance the negative effect on quality of life, mood, and anxiety symptoms has been proven. Thus we aimed to organize psychological interventions affecting the mentioned constructs and also examine their efficiency and scientific standards. Our inclusion criteria referred to studies based on randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses. We selected seven types of interventions, such as psychoeducation, cognitive behavioural therapy, mindfulness-based methods, progressive muscle relaxation, yoga, physical activity, and complex programs. Regarding the quality of life, mood, and anxiety cognitive behavioural therapy and progressive muscle relaxation were the most effective methods, however, other interventions had promising results either. Besides, there is a growing demand for psychological and mind-body interventions, which should get a more important place in the primary care of endometriosis next to medical treatment. We find inevitable further high-quality examinations, and from the point of practice, we consider it crucial to implement current evidence-based methods in the psychological care of endometriosis. Keywords: , , , , , , , , , , , .

Patients' Expectations of Yoga and Associated Therapies Influence Treatment Outcome: A Convenience Sampling Pre-Post Study from India.

An association between expectations of treatment and treatment outcome has been reported for conventional medical and surgical treatments. However, this association has not been described for yoga therapy. The present study recruited patients (154 males and 145 females, n = 299; age 48.8 ± 14.7 years) who had been admitted to a residential wellness center, most commonly with diseases of the musculoskeletal system or connective tissue; endocrine, nutritional, or metabolic diseases; and digestive system disorders (all based on ICD-11). Assessments included: (1) expectations of yoga and associated therapies at baseline using two questionnaires (Treatment Expectation Questionnaire and Expectation for Treatment Scale); and (2) treatment outcome at baseline and after 7 days of yoga and associated therapies using the Physical Health Questionnaire and Global Perceived Effect scale. The intervention included yoga and additional therapies (e.g., hydrotherapy and ayurveda for approximately 40% of the time). Multivariable regression analyses (controlled for variation due to age, gender, education, and baseline Physical Health Questionnaire scores) demonstrated that expectations of (1) positive outcomes of all aspects of treatment significantly predicted better overall perceived effect of treatment; (2) symptom resolution (positive expectations) significantly predicted higher total Physical Health Questionnaire scores, with better digestion; and (3) low adverse outcomes significantly predicted better sleep. The findings support the premise that higher positive expectations and lower negative expectations of yoga therapy predict better treatment outcomes. These findings suggest that people should be well-informed about the reported benefits and the less-frequent negative outcomes of yoga therapy so that their expectations may be positive yet realistic, optimally influencing treatment outcomes.

Participant Experiences from a Randomized Controlled Trial of Heated Yoga for Depression.

Despite decades of research on yoga and depression, subjective experiences of participants in these studies have rarely been reported, and never in individuals receiving heated yoga for depression. We examined patient-reported qualitative findings from an 8-week randomized controlled trial of heated yoga for depression. Eighty medically healthy participants with moderate-to-severe depression were randomized to 8 weeks of at least twice-weekly heated yoga classes, derived from Bikram yoga, or a waitlist control. Fifty-seven participants received a clinician-administered exit interview at intervention completion/study withdrawal. The exit interview assessed: (1) how participants felt immediately following the heated yoga sessions (acute effects), (2) what they liked or found helpful about heated yoga over the 8-week intervention (positive effects), and (3) what they disliked/did not find helpful over the 8-week intervention (negative effects). Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Acute improvements in depressive symptoms (i.e., immediately following yoga) were the most commonly reported (n = 44, 77.2%), followed by overall positive effects on depressive symptoms (i.e., over the course of the 8-week intervention; n = 33, 57.9%), including improvements in sleep (n = 10, 17.5%), energy (n = 13, 22.8%), mood (n = 18, 31.6%), motivation (n = 2, 3.5%), and concentration/decision-making (n = 5, 8.8%). Overall negative effects (i.e., over the course of the 8-week intervention) included dislike of various aspects of the intervention (n = 19, 33.3%), such as instruction (n = 7, 12.3%), difficulty (n = 7, 12.3%), repetitiveness (n = 3, 5.3%), class length (n = 2, 3.5%), and boredom (n = 7, 12.3%). Most participants reported both overall positive and negative effects (n = 37, 64.9%). Of the rest, 19 (33.3%) reported only overall positive effects, and 1 (1.8%) reported only overall negative effects. Most participant experiences were positive. Negative effects were less common and primarily involved dislike of different aspects of the heated yoga. The findings support strong acceptability and subjective improvement in depressive symptoms in depressed individuals.

Integrating Yoga into Comprehensive Cancer Care: Starting Somewhere.

Introduction: The rapid increase in cancer survivors in the United States (US) highlights the importance of survivors' long-term care needs and symptom management. Given evidence that yoga supports cancer related symptoms, our aim was to develop and implement a community yoga program available for cancer survivors, family members, and staff involved in cancer care at a public comprehensive cancer center in the US. Given the wide age range and potential side effects from cancer treatment, we adapted the yoga program to meet the needs of cancer survivors. Methods: Beginning in May 2017, we offered sixty-minute gentle yoga sessions for all medically cleared cancer survivors and their family members, caregivers, and friends, as well as oncology staff. We aimed to evaluate acceptability, development, and implementation of an adaptive yoga program at our comprehensive cancer center using mixed methods. Classes were initially offered once a week, then increased to twice a week. A total of five service evaluations were sent approximately every six months between April 2018-October 2019 to evaluate participant satisfaction (n=90 responses). Qualitative data were collected and analyzed using thematic analysis of participant satisfaction, allowing us to continuously monitor the yoga program and adjust to meet participants' needs. Results: Between May 2017 and February 2020, 176 people attended our program. Ages ranged from 21 to 72 years, with an average age of 45 years. Based on these evaluations, 96% (n=86) of participants rated both the program and teachers excellent, and 4% (n=4) rated the program and teachers good. Qualitative themes highlighted positive aspects of the program, including accessibility, inclusivity, and adaptive yoga based on medical needs, skill level, and abilities. Conclusions: Adaptive yoga programs are well-accepted by cancer survivors and caregivers and may contribute a solution to healthcare staff and physician burnout. It is essential to build a solid foundation of self-care and wellness programming for cancer survivors and to create and foster adaptive yoga classes. Next steps for our program include evaluating yoga within the clinical setting, including chemotherapy infusion center and further research on reduction in stress through yoga in cancer survivors.

Effectiveness of an interactive online group intervention based on pain neuroscience education and graded exposure to movement in breast cancer survivors with chronic pain: a randomised controlled trial.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effectiveness, compared with usual care, of an interactive online group programme combining pain neuroscience education (PNE) and graded exposure to movement (GEM) for improving quality of life and pain experience in breast cancer survivors with chronic pain. METHODS: This single-blind randomised controlled trial included a sample of 49 breast cancer survivors who were randomly assigned to two groups (experimental: n = 22 and control: n = 27). The experimental group received a 12-week person-centred online programme based on pain neuroscience education and therapeutic yoga as gradual exposure to movement, while the control group continued with their usual care. The primary outcome was quality of life (FACT-B + 4); the secondary outcomes were related to the experience of chronic pain (pain intensity, pain interference, catastrophizing, pain self-efficacy, kinesiophobia, and fear avoidance behaviours). All variables were assessed at four time points (T0, baseline; T1, after PNE sessions; T2, after yoga sessions; T3, at 3-month follow-up). For data analysis, ANOVA (2 × 4) analysis of variance (95% CI) was used when outcomes were normally distributed. If not, within-group and between-group comparisons were calculated. RESULTS: Thirty-six participants were included in the analysis (control group, 22; experimental group, 14). A significant time * group effect was observed in favour of the experimental group regarding the global quality of life score (p = 0.010, ηp2 = 0.124). Significant differences in favour of the experimental group were observed for pain intensity, pain interference, catastrophizing, and pain self-efficacy. These differences persisted at follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: An online intervention based on PNE and GEM appears to be more effective than usual care for improving quality of life in breast cancer survivors with chronic pain, as a time per group interaction was reported. In addition, the intervention also significantly improved the participants' experience of chronic pain. However, due to the study limitations further research is needed. Trial record: NCT04965909 (26/06/2021).

The effect of YOCAS©® yoga on cancer-related fatigue and quality of life in older (60+) vs. younger (≤ 59) cancer survivors: Secondary analysis of a nationwide, multicenter, phase 3 randomized controlled trial.

INTRODUCTION: Older cancer survivors consistently express the need for interventions to reduce cancer-related fatigue (CRF) and maintain quality of life (QOL). Yoga is a promising treatment to address CRF and QOL. However, research comparing the efficacy of yoga for improving fatigue and QOL in older survivors (60+) vs. younger adult survivors (≤59)is limited. Our objective was to examine the effects of yoga on CRF and QOL in older survivors vs. younger survivors. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted a secondary analysis of a nationwide, multicenter, phase 3 randomized controlled trial. For this study, participants who provided evaluable pre- and post-intervention data on the Functional Assessment for Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue (FACIT-F) and the Functional Assessment for Cancer Therapy-General (FACT-G) were eligible. The yoga intervention comprises gentle Hatha and Restorative Yoga and includes breathing exercises, physical alignment postures, and mindfulness. RESULTS: Of the 177 participants included in the study, 30.1 % were aged 60+ and 69.9 % were aged ≤59. More younger participants had breast cancer (82.0 % vs. 59.2 %. p = 0.009), surgery (98.9 % vs. 77.8 %, p < 0.001), and chemotherapy (80.5 % vs. 55.6 %, p = 0.001). There were no differences in the cancer stage (66.1 % stage I or II). There were statistically significant and clinically meaningful within-group improvements from baseline to post-intervention in CRF for participants aged ≤59 and participants aged 60+ (4.0 ± 0.7, p < 0.001 vs. 3.1 ± 1.0, p = 0.003). Both age groups also demonstrated improvements in QOL (3.2 ± 0.8, p < 0.001 vs. 2.1 ± 1.2, p = 0.078), physical (1.6 ± 0.3, p < 0.001 vs. 0.8 ± 0.5, p = 0.084), functional (0.7 ± 0.3, p = 0.048 vs. 1.0 ± 0.5, p = 0.037), and emotional well-being. There were no significant between-group differences between the age groups. Most younger and older participants reported that yoga helped improve their sleep quality (92.8 % vs 88.5 %) and they would recommend it to other survivors (98.2 % vs 90.4 %). DISCUSSION: Older cancer survivors who undergo gentle Hatha and restorative yoga performed two to three times per week for four weeks at a low to moderate level of intensity have similar improvements in CRF and QOL compared to participants aged ≤59. For older survivors experiencing these toxicities, it is reasonable for clinicians to prescribe yoga. CLINICALTRIALS: govidentifier: NCT00397930.

Effectiveness of Multifaceted Lifestyle Interventions in Prediabetic Adults: A Field Study in an Urban Slum Population of Pune, India.

Introduction Adults with diabetes have an increased risk of hypertension, heart attack, and stroke than those without diabetes. Diagnosing prediabetes at an early stage can significantly reduce the risk of diabetes through simple interventions such as lifestyle modifications. Lifestyle modifications such as weight loss combined with regular physical exercise and a healthy diet can help delay or prevent the progression of diabetes. This study aims to estimate the prevalence of prediabetes among the urban slum population and to assess the effect of lifestyle modifications on blood sugar levels, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and lipid profile among the participants. Methods A quasi-experimental field study was conducted among the urban slum population. Participants were randomly selected from previous health screening data. Pre-intervention blood evaluations were performed, and those who fulfilled the criteria were enrolled for interventions. The follow-up period lasted three months and included telephonic and in-person meetings for support and motivation. All variables were reevaluated at the end of the follow-up period. Results Out of 34 participants included in the study, 20 completed the three-month follow-up. Statistically significant changes were observed after three months of intervention in weight, fasting blood sugar, HbA1c, BMI, triglycerides, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels. However, decreases in systolic blood pressure (BP), diastolic BP, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol were not statistically significant. Conclusion The study revealed that lifestyle intervention programs promoting healthy diets, physical activity, and body weight reduction can prevent or delay the onset of diabetes among high-risk populations. The effectiveness of interventions across community settings depends on delivery formats, implementers, and the level of motivation of participants.

A telehealth yoga program for older adults in rural Wisconsin: intervention development and process outcomes.

Although yoga improves physical functioning, balance, and quality of life in older adults, rural residents are less likely to participate due to issues related to availability, access, and beliefs regarding yoga practice. To address these barriers, we worked with community partners to adapt a yoga program designed for older adults for telehealth delivery. In this report, intervention development and process outcomes are presented. Community collaborators identified strategies to recruit and retain older adults and suggested modifications required to maximize the adoption and maintenance of a telehealth exercise program by local community organizations. Four rural serving organizations evaluated the program using a wait-list comparison group design. Process measures collected at post-intervention supplemented program evaluation measures collected pre- and post-intervention. The adapted 8-week program consisted of two weekly group sessions delivered over video conferencing software. Of 48 enrolled participants, 83% completed the program. Participants were on average 72.6 (SD=6) years old, majority white (98%), female (85.7%), and attended some college (92%). Most were satisfied with the telehealth delivery, program content, and yoga instructor with mixed results regarding logistical issues such as program length and duration. Community organizations similar to those that will ultimately disseminate the program, yoga teachers, and older adults were engaged to maximize the feasibility of this telehealth exercise program. The program appeared to be safe and acceptable, indicating telehealth may be a strategy to increase access to yoga programs for rural-dwelling older adults. Lessons learned will inform future telehealth iterations of this and similar exercise programming.

Effectiveness of Yoga and Meditation on Quality of Life Among Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis.

The rising prevalence of chronic kidney disease poses a future challenge for healthcare and the economy. For patients diagnosed with kidney failure, hemodialysis is the sole recourse until a suitable renal donor is acquired, exerting a discernible impact on the overall quality of life. Yoga and meditation emerge as pivotal elements in enhancing quality of life (QoL), significantly influencing diverse aspects of well-being. The study aimed to identify the effectiveness of yoga and meditation on QoL among hemodialysis patients. An experimental research design with one group pretest - post-test on 100 participants was conducted in Muljibhai Patel Urology Hospital, Nadiad. Pre-tests were conducted on day 1, followed by a 12-week yoga and meditation program with a post-test. Data analysis utilised SPSS-20 software, employing descriptive and inferential statistics. Yoga and meditation effectively demonstrated improvement in QoL in each domain (p < 0.001.) post-intervention. These results emphasize QoL enhancement after incorporating these practices into hemodialysis care.

Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial of a Yoga-Based Intervention Targeting Anger Management for People Who Are Incarcerated.

Introduction: Incarceration represents an opportune moment to improve self-management of anger and aggression. A hatha yoga-based intervention (YBI) could serve as a useful adjunctive intervention for anger within prisons. Methods: We enrolled 40 people with elevated levels of anger who were incarcerated (20 in a women's facility, and 20 in a men's facility) in a 10-week pilot randomized controlled trial of a YBI versus. a health education (HE) control group. Participants attended their respective groups once per week. We examined indices of feasibility and acceptability, including intervention credibility, expectancy the intervention would be helpful, intervention satisfaction, class attendance, engagement in personal practice, instructor fidelity, intervention safety, and study recruitment and retention rates. We also examined changes in clinical outcomes including anger, depression, anxiety, and behavioral infractions over time. Results: We met targets for several outcomes: credibility of the YBI and HE interventions, expectancy that they would be helpful, and satisfaction with the programs. Instructors demonstrated fidelity to both manuals. There were no serious adverse events related to study participation. Class attendance did not meet our target outcome in either facility and rates of personal practice met our target outcome in the men's but not the women's facility. For people enrolled in the YBI, anger, depression, and anxiety tended to decrease over time. Qualitative interviews with participants pointed to overall high satisfaction with the YBI and provided information on facility-related barriers to class attendance. Conclusion: Although we did not meet all our feasibility targets in this study, we note high participant enthusiasm. Thus, we believe this line of research is worth pursuing, with further attention to ways to decrease facility-related barriers to class attendance and personal practice. Clinical trials registration: NCT05336123.

[Complementary and integrative medicine in cancer-related fatigue]. / Komplementärmedizinische Therapieansätze bei krebsbedingter Fatigue.

The majority of cancer patients experience fatigue during the course of their illness. Fatigue should not be seen as an inevitable consequence of cancer and its treatment. Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is a multidimensional symptom complex that is influenced by a variety of factors. Complementary medicine approaches offer potentially promising strategies to address this fatigue and can therefore be a valuable addition to conventional therapies.In this narrative review, complementary medicine treatment approaches for tumor-associated fatigue are presented according to the historical development and current scientific evidence. The focus is on methods with the highest current evidence based on the recommendations of national and international guidelines. Therapeutic approaches from mind-body medicine, such as mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), yoga, tai chi, and qigong, as well as acupuncture, acupressure, moxibustion, and phytotherapeutic treatment approaches are presented.In Germany, the complementary therapies listed here are not generally covered by health insurances. However, a few clinics have developed comprehensive programs in mind-body medicine, for which cost coverage has already been obtained. As a result, complementary medical treatments for cancer-related fatigue that adhere to national and international guidelines are typically available only as private services or within the framework of study participation.

Comparative evaluation of three different behavior management techniques among children aged 6-12 years in dental practice: A single-center, double-blind, randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Dental anxiety is characterized by distress in anticipation of dental visits, which may result in a child's refusal to undergo treatment and, ultimately, lead to parents' reluctance towards dental care. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of the tell-show-do technique, modeling technique and yogic relaxation technique in the reduction of dental anxiety among children aged 6-12 years. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study was an interventional, parallel-group, single-center, double-blind, randomized controlled trial conducted on 120 children who required restorative treatment without the use of local anesthesia. The participants were selected based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria and were randomly divided into 3 groups: group 1 - tell-show-do technique; group 2 - modeling technique; group 3 - yogic relaxation technique. The dental anxiety levels were evaluated 4 times using both physiological (oxygen saturation and pulse rate) and behavioral parameters (facial image scale (FIS) and the Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, and Consolability scale (FLACC)). The data was assessed by 2 blinded and calibrated specialists. RESULTS: Statistically significant differences were observed in all 4 parameters among the 3 groups. During both the intraoperative and postoperative periods, the oxygen saturation levels were significantly higher in the yogic relaxation technique group. Moreover, the yogic relaxation technique group exhibited lower pulse rates, FIS and FLACC scores compared to the tell-show-do and modeling technique groups. CONCLUSIONS: The practice of yoga has a positive influence on the general health of the individual. Consequently, it can be considered one of the alternative behavioral modification techniques for the reduction of dental anxiety in children.

High-intensity interval training vs. yoga in improving binge eating and physical fitness in inactive young females.

Yoga is effective in binge eating disorder (BED) treatment, but it does not seem effective enough to improve low physical fitness. In contrast, high-intensity interval training (HIIT) is effective in improving physical fitness but has never been studied in the context of BED. In the study, 47 young inactive females with mild to moderate BED were recruited and randomly assigned to a HIIT group (HIIT), a Yoga group (YG), or a control group (CG; age, 19.47 ± 0.74, 19.69 ± 0.874, and 19.44 ± 0.63 years; BMI, 21.07 ± 1.66, 21.95 ± 2.67, and 20.68 ± 2.61 kg/m2, respectively). The intervention groups participated in 8-week specific exercises, while the CG maintained their usual daily activity. Before and after the training, participants were evaluated for BED using the binge eating scale (BES) and for physical fitness. The obtained data were compared within groups and between groups, and a correlation analysis between BES and physical fitness parameters was performed. After the training, the YG presented significant improvements in BES (- 20.25%, p = 0.006, ηp2 = 0.408), fat mass (FM, - 3.13%, p = 0.033, ηp2 = 0.269), and maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max, 11.51%, p = 0.000, ηp2 = 0.601), whereas the HIIT showed significant improvements in body weight (BW, - 1.78%, p = 0.006, ηp2 = 0.433), FM (- 3.94%, p = 0.033, ηp2 = 0.285), and BMI (- 1.80%, p = 0.006, ηp2 = 0.428), but not in BES. Comparisons between groups revealed that both HIIT and YG had significantly higher VO2max levels than CG (HIIT 12.82%, p = 0.006, ηp2 = 0.088; YG: 11.90%, p = 0.009, ηp2 = 0.088) with no difference between HIIT and YG. Additionally, YG presented significantly lower BES than both HIIT (15.45%, p = 0.02, ηp2 = 0.03) and CG (11.91%, p = 0.022, ηp2 = 0.03). In conclusion, Yoga is an effective treatment for BED, but HIIT is not, despite its high efficacy in improving physical fitness.

The effect of yoga on dyspnea, sleep, and quality of life in patients with bronchiectasis: A randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Bronchiectasis is characterized by chronic cough, acute exacerbations, and excessive sputum production, along with symptoms such as shortness of breath and fatigue, which impair respiratory functions and quality of life. This study aims to investigate the effects of yoga on dyspnea, sleep quality, and overall quality of life in patients with bronchiectasis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-eight participants with bronchiectasis were included in the study. The patients were randomly divided into two groups, the yoga group (n = 24) or control group (no placebo or sham intervention) (n = 24). The yoga group participated in a total of 24 sessions over 8 weeks, with three sessions per week. No intervention was performed on the patients in the control group. The Modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) questionnaire was used to assess patients' dyspnea level, and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) were used to assess sleep quality and health-related quality of life, respectively. RESULTS: It was observed that the yoga intervention affected the intergroup change in dyspnea severity score over time (p < 0.05) (x̄yoga = 2.64-1.50 = 1.14; x̄control2.24-1.95 = 0.29). The decrease in the mean PSQI score of the yoga practice group (16.41-13.18 = 3.23) was significantly higher compared with the control group (14.90-14.57 = 0.33). Post-practice SGRQ activity scores were significantly different from pre-practice SGRQ activity scores. Similar to the change in SGRQ activity and symptom scores, the impact score also changed significantly over time (x̄yoga12.55-9.09 = 3.46; x̄control12-11.52 = 0.48). CONCLUSION: The results indicate that yoga may have a positive effect on dyspnea, sleep, and quality of life in patients with bronchiectasis.

Implementation of Virtual Yoga Shared Medical Appointment (VYSMA) Pilot at an Academic Medical Center Within a Mixed-Diagnosis Oncology Population.

Yoga is highly sought after by people seeking oncology care, endorsed by clinical practice guidelines, and supported by leading cancer organizations, yet barriers related to access, time, cost, and availability of quality providers remain. Shared medical appointments (SMA), a group healthcare model where patients with similar medical conditions participate in a collective appointment with healthcare providers, are associated with increased access to quality care, patient satisfaction, and clinician satisfaction. We piloted a unique insurance-covered virtual yoga SMA series to assess feasibility and acceptability in a mixed-diagnosis population. In this prospective cohort pilot, a trauma-informed Hanna Somatic Yoga instructor and an integrative medicine physician co-led yoga SMAs via live web-based conferencing. SMA content included conscious self-regulation through mind-body practices including breathing, movement, visualization, meditation, chanting, and guided relaxation. Qualitative and quantitative data were gathered to assess satisfaction with the 88 sessions offered over 33 months. Sixty-nine participants with diverse demographics attended a total of 500 visits. Class attendance ranged from 2-11 participants (mean 6 participants). Participants attended a mean of 7 sessions (range 1-63 sessions), with 63% attending > 1 session. Participants' diagnoses/symptoms included cancer (77%), anxiety/depression (38%), and pain (38%). Preseries, participants reported pain, weakness, neuropathy, lymphedema, insomnia, and fatigue. Postseries survey results suggested improvements in anxiety/fear, pain, fatigue, poor sleep, neuropathy, brain fog, isolation, weakness, inflexibility, and poor balance. Postseries, participants also reported incorporating mindfulness, breathing techniques, somatic skills, weight training, and yoga into their daily routines, with 91% reporting that their goals had been met. Participants appreciated remote delivery, learning new skills, community, and the instructors. This virtual yoga SMA series in a diverse population with mixed diagnoses was feasible, acceptable to participants, and showed promising positive impact. A larger randomized controlled trial with longer follow-up is recommended.

Quantitative EEG correlates of 'Kriya yoga' benefits for mental health among health care providers.

Background: Health care workers (HCWs) experience abounding physical and mental exhaustion mandating a deliverable solution for their mental health care. Kriya yoga (KY) includes several relaxation techniques and offers a stress-alleviating experience. The objective signature of KY benefits needs to be investigated. Aim: To study the effects of KY practice on brain oscillations and perceived stress in health care providers. Methods: This prospective interventional study was conducted during coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. HCWs were enrolled to the intervention group (IG) and control group (CG) after obtaining an informed consent. IG visited the yoga center for learning the KY technique. Electroencephalogram (EEG) was recorded in both the groups, at baseline, and at the end of 6 weeks in the EEG Laboratory. Perceived stress scale (PSS) scores and participants' subjective response to KY practice were also collected. Paired t-test and independent t-test were used for statistical comparison wherever applicable. Results: Age and baseline EEG powers among the IG and CG (N = 25) were statistically comparable. Absolute power analysis revealed a statistically significant increase in alpha and delta powers after 6 weeks of KY practice. The PSS scores revealed a statistically significant decrease in perceived stress after KY practice. Furthermore, 83% of the participants reported the subjective calming effects of KY practice. Conclusion: KY practice ensues relaxing effects on the brain, as evident from the EEG absolute power analysis, PSS scores, and participants' subjective response. As KY is a brief technique, it may be encouraged during short break session among the HCWs for promotive health.

Co-creating a yoga program for women diagnosed with gynecologic cancer: a consensus study.

PURPOSE: Yoga may be uniquely suited to address bio-psycho-social concerns among adults with gynecologic cancer because it can be tailored to individuals' needs and can help shift focus inward towards self-reflection, body appreciation, and gratitude. This study describes the collaborative process guided by the Knowledge-to-Action framework used to develop a yoga program for adults diagnosed with gynecologic cancer and inform a feasibility trial. METHODS: In 3 collaborative phases, yoga instructors and women diagnosed with gynecologic cancer formulated recommendations for a yoga program and evaluated the co-created program. RESULTS: The program proposed is 12 weeks in length and offers two 60-min group-based Hatha yoga classes/week to five to seven participants/class, online or in person, with optional supplemental features. Overall, participants deemed the co-created program and instructor guidebook to be reflective of their needs and preferences, though they provided feedback to refine the compatibility, performability, accessibility, risk precautions, and value of the program as well as the instructor guidebook. CONCLUSION: The feasibility, acceptability, and benefits of the program are being assessed in an ongoing feasibility trial. If deemed feasible and acceptable, and the potential for enhancing patient-reported outcomes is observed, further investigation will focus on larger-scale trials to determine its value for broader implementation.