Yoga and Multiple Sclerosis

Yoga and Multiple Sclerosis refers to research on yoga as a complementary intervention for multiple sclerosis (MS).

Summary

Studies assess yoga’s effects on fatigue, balance, mobility, spasticity, and quality of life in MS populations.

Key Findings

Meta-analyses report small-to-moderate improvements in fatigue, balance, and quality of life. Yoga reduces spasticity and improves walking speed in some trials. Adapted yoga programs are feasible and safe for individuals with varying disability levels.

Methodology

RCTs use adapted yoga programs over 8–12 weeks. Outcomes include MS-specific fatigue scales, Berg Balance Scale, timed walk tests, and quality of life measures.

Limitations

Wide variability in MS severity complicates comparisons. Most studies have small samples. Long-term outcomes are rarely assessed.

Verification Notes

• Cramer et al. (2014) and subsequent reviews summarize evidence.
• Literature reviewed through 2020s.