Yoga and Parkinson’s Disease

Yoga and Parkinson’s Disease refers to research on yoga interventions for motor and non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.

Summary

Studies assess yoga’s effects on balance, gait, rigidity, bradykinesia, mood, and quality of life in Parkinson’s populations.

Key Findings

Small-to-moderate improvements in balance, gait speed, and functional mobility are reported. Yoga reduces rigidity and improves upper extremity function in some trials. Benefits for depression, sleep, and quality of life are observed. Adapted Hatha yoga programs are commonly studied.

Methodology

RCTs run 8–16 weeks with UPDRS (motor and non-motor sections) and gait analysis as primary outcomes. Controls include conventional exercise and standard care.

Limitations

Sample sizes are small. Most studies exclude advanced disease. Disease stage and medication status are confounders.

Verification Notes

• Reviews by Ni et al. (2015) and subsequent trials inform conclusions.
• Literature reviewed through 2020s.