Yoga: a tool for improving the quality of life in chronic pancreatitis.

ABSTRACT

AIM: To determine the effectiveness of yoga on improving the quality of life in patients of chronic pancreatitis. METHODS: The patients were randomized to two groups. The control group continued their usual care as directed by their physicians. Patients in the yoga group, in addition, received biweekly yoga sessions for 12 wk. The patients' demographic and health behaviour variables were assessed before and after the yoga programme using Medical Outcomes Short Form (SF-36) for quality of life, Profile of Mood States for assessing mood and Symptoms of Stress Inventory for measuring stress. RESULTS: A total of 60 patients were enrolled, with 8 drop-outs. Thirty patients were randomized to the yoga group and 30 to the control group. Significant improvements were seen in overall quality of life, symptoms of stress, mood changes, alcohol dependence and appetite after the 12 wk period apart from the general feeling of well-being and desire to continue with the programme in future in the yoga group, while there was no difference in the control group. CONCLUSION: Yoga is effective on improving the quality of life in patients of chronic pancreatitis.