Yoga and Low Back Pain

Yoga and Low Back Pain refers to clinical research on yoga interventions for acute, subacute, and chronic low back pain.

Summary

Yoga is among the most studied non-pharmacological interventions for low back pain, with numerous RCTs and systematic reviews.

Key Findings

Meta-analyses show yoga provides moderate short-term improvements in pain and disability compared to non-exercise controls. Effects are comparable to other active therapies (physical therapy, McKenzie method). Benefits persist at 6–12 months in some trials. Iyengar, Viniyoga, and Hatha styles all show evidence of benefit.

Methodology

RCTs typically run 8–12 weeks with once or twice weekly classes. Primary outcomes are pain intensity (NRS/VAS) and functional disability (Oswestry Disability Index, Roland-Morris). Controls include education, physical therapy, and stretching.

Limitations

Blinding is impossible. Heterogeneity across yoga styles is substantial. Most studies focus on chronic (not acute) pain. Long-term adherence data are limited.

Verification Notes

• Wieland et al. (2017) Cochrane review and ACC/APA guidelines reference yoga.
• Literature reviewed through 2020s.