Research: HILL C,

Listed in Issue 227

Abstract

HILL C, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, UK. chill295@doctors.net.uk set out to assess randomized-control trials (RCTs) to ascertain whether yoga is an effective treatment in the management of patients with chronic low back pain (cLBP) compared with other care modalities.

Background

The aim of the study was to assess randomized-control trials (RCTs) to ascertain whether yoga is an effective treatment in the management of patients with chronic low back pain (cLBP) compared with other care modalities.

Methodology

A search strategy was formulated with key concepts identified using the PICO process. Four databases were searched in June 2012. Appropriate eligibility criteria were set and implemented.

Results

Four randomized control trials met the inclusion criteria. All four papers found that yoga lead to a significant improvement in back function, and three demonstrated a significant improvement in back pain when compared with certain care modalities. All papers had significant limitations identified, however.

Conclusion

Given the limitations identified within the studies, the conclusions drawn must be considered conservatively. Early results appear promising, but further well-designed RCTs are warranted, with multiple, specified comparator care modalities before firm conclusions can be gained.

References

Hill C. Is yoga an effective treatment in the management of patients with chronic low back pain compared with other care modalities - a systematic review. J Complement Integr Med. 10. pii: /j/jcim.2013.10.issue-1/jcim-2012-0007/jcim-2012-0007.xml. May 7 2013. doi: 10.1515/jcim-2012-0007. 

Comment

The above study found that the practice of yoga lead to significant improvement in back function and significant improvement in back pain. There were, however limitations in the research papers; the authors state that further research is warranted.

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