Yoga for Low Back Pain
Low back pain is a common condition and affects up to 80% of the Singaporean adult population, according to NNI, SingHealth.
Back pain refers to discomfort or pain experienced in the back, specifically in the area between the neck and the pelvis. It is a common condition that can range from mild to severe and can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term). Back pain can affect people of all ages and can be caused by various factors.
The back is a complex structure composed of bones (vertebrae), muscles, ligaments, tendons, and discs that cushion the vertebrae. Back pain can originate from any of these structures or a combination of them. It can also be referred pain from other areas of the body.
Another common type of back pain involves pain in the lower back, commonly known as Low back pain. Low back pain refers to discomfort or pain experienced in the lower region of the back, specifically in the area between the bottom of the ribcage and the buttocks. It is a common condition that can range from mild to severe and can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term).
How Yoga Helps with Low Back Pain
Yoga has been extensively studied for its potential benefits in managing and reducing low back pain (LBP). Here are some key findings supported by scientific evidence and references:
1. Reduction in Pain and Disability
Evidence: Yoga interventions have been shown to reduce low back pain and disability.
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Study: Tilbrook, H. E., Cox, H., Hewitt, C. E., Kang'ombe, A. R., Chuang, L. H., Jayakody, S., ... & Torgerson, D. J. (2011). "Yoga for chronic low back pain: A randomized trial."
- Journal: Annals of Internal Medicine
- Summary: This randomized controlled trial found that yoga significantly reduced pain and disability in individuals with chronic low back pain compared to usual care.
2. Improvement in Functional Ability
Evidence: Yoga improves functional ability and flexibility in individuals with low back pain.
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Study: Sherman, K. J., Cherkin, D. C., Erro, J., Miglioretti, D. L., & Deyo, R. A. (2005). "Comparing yoga, exercise, and a self-care book for chronic low back pain: A randomized, controlled trial."
- Journal: Annals of Internal Medicine
- Summary: This randomized controlled trial compared yoga, conventional exercise, and self-care for chronic low back pain and found that yoga and exercise were more effective than the self-care book in improving functional outcomes and reducing symptoms.
3. Reduction in Psychological Distress
Evidence: Yoga reduces psychological distress associated with low back pain, such as anxiety and depression.
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Study: Tekur, P., Nagarathna, R., Chametcha, S., Hankey, A., & Nagendra, H. R. (2012). "A comprehensive yoga programs improves pain, anxiety and depression in chronic low back pain patients more than exercise: An RCT."
- Journal: Complementary Therapies in Medicine
- Summary: This randomized controlled trial demonstrated that a comprehensive yoga program improved pain, anxiety, and depression in chronic low back pain patients more effectively than conventional exercise.
4. Enhancement of Core Strength and Posture
Evidence: Yoga improves core strength and promotes better posture, which can alleviate low back pain.
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Study: Williams, K., Abildso, C., Steinberg, L., Doyle, E., Epstein, B., Smith, D., ... & Cooper, L. (2009). "Evaluation of the effectiveness and efficacy of Iyengar yoga therapy on chronic low back pain."
- Journal: Spine
- Summary: This study evaluated Iyengar yoga therapy for chronic low back pain and found significant improvements in pain intensity and functional disability, attributing these benefits to improved core strength and posture.
5. Long-Term Benefits
Evidence: Yoga provides long-term benefits for reducing recurrence and severity of low back pain.
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Study: Sherman, K. J., Cherkin, D. C., Wellman, R. D., Cook, A. J., Hawkes, R. J., Delaney, K., ... & Turner, J. A. (2011). "A randomized trial comparing yoga, stretching, and a self-care book for chronic low back pain."
- Journal: Archives of Internal Medicine
- Summary: This randomized trial compared yoga, stretching, and self-care for chronic low back pain and found that yoga provided long-term benefits in reducing pain and improving function, with effects lasting up to one year.
Conclusion
Scientific evidence strongly supports the benefits of yoga for managing chronic low back pain, including reductions in pain intensity, disability, psychological distress, and improvements in functional ability, core strength, and posture. These studies highlight yoga as an effective and holistic approach for individuals seeking non-pharmacological methods to alleviate and manage chronic low back pain.
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We view yoga as a form of preventive and relief alternative. It is neither a cure-all nor a quick-fix intervention to your health or medical concerns or conditions. Our Program is not intended as a substitute for professional health or medical advice. It is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. It is not intended to be patient education, does not create any patient-physician relationship, and should not be used as a substitute for professional health or medical diagnosis and treatment. If you have any health or medical concerns or conditions that warrant special attention, please seek the advice of your health or medical professional before beginning our Program.
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