Impact of holistic, patient-centric yoga & naturopathy-based lifestyle modification program in patients with musculoskeletal disorders: A quasi-experimental study

Abstract

BackgroundMusculoskeletal disorders (MSD) are one of the leading causes of disability and decreased well-being globally. This study investigates the role of a 10-day holistic, person-centric yoga & naturopathy based lifestyle intervention model (HOPE-YN) in improving musculoskeletal health, vitality, strength, flexibility, pain, and treatment satisfaction among MSD patients. MethodsThis quasi-experimental study included 57 participants with varying MSD, aged between 29 and 65, who underwent a 10-day HOPE-YN program that included interventions like diet, yoga, massage, etc. Additionally, each patient received a holistic consultation focused on holistic dimensions of health and healing. Except for STS and TUG, which were measured at the baseline and 10th day, the Musculoskeletal-related Health Quality (MSK-HQ), the Visual Analog Scale for Health, Vitality, and Pain, weight, sit-to-stand (STS) and time-up-and-go (TUG) tests, and the visit-specific patient satisfaction questionnaire (VSQ-9) were measured at the baseline, 10th day, and 1 month post intervention. ResultsThe study was completed by 50 participants (76 % females), with the majority of the participants reporting having osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Statistically significant improvement (P < 0.001) was observed in MSK-HQ, health, vitality, pain, STS, and TUG scores at the end of 10 days and one month after the intervention(P < 0.001). Females were found to have higher treatment satisfaction compared to males (P = 0.008). Treatment satisfaction was associated with improvements in vitality (P = 0.02), TUG (P = 0.03) and STS scores (P = 0.04). ConclusionHOPE-YN program was found to be beneficial in managing MSD and may improve adherence to lifestyle programs. The findings need to be validated through robust clinical trials.