Effects of Yoga on the Quality of Life and Mobility in Geriatric Patients with Osteoporosis

Abstract

Background: The aim of the current study was to investigate the effects of yoga on the quality of life (QoL) in osteoporosis. Methods: Twelve women with osteoporosis were enrolled in the yoga exercise program, 9 of whom completed the 12-sessions program. Physical characteristics of the patients were recorded and general physiotherapy assessments were performed. Twelve sessions of a yoga program including warming and breathing exercises, asanas and relaxation in supine position were applied to participants. Before and after yoga program the patients’ quality of life (QoL) was evaluated using Nottingham Health Profile (NHP). Patients’ mobility were assessed using Timed Up and Go Test (TUG). Patients’ pain level was evaluated using the visual analog scale (VAS). Results: The mean age of the geriatric women with osteoporosis were 66.00 ± 3.87 years. It was found that patients’ QoL scores after the yoga program were better than scores obtained before the yoga program (p < 0.05). After sessions, there was a statistically significant decrease in their TUG mobility scores (p < 0.05). When the initial values were compared with the after yoga program values, the severity of pain showed a diminish (p < 0.05). Conclusions: At the end of the study, it is concluded that yoga has the potential to alleviate problems relatedwith QoL,mobility and pain the geriatric women with osteoporosis