Yoga Helps MS Patients Deal with Balance Issues

Statistics show that around 2.5 people worldwide suffer from multiple sclerosis--a disabling neurological condition that typically strikes young adults between the ages of 20 and 40.

Health officials have worked on numerous medications and treatment to alleviate the chronic disease. Now, they're adding yoga to the list of healthy options that can relieve some of the stress and balance issues that are typical of this health problem.

"Yoga is not just exercise, it is a whole system of living," said lead study author Susan Gould Fogerite, the director of research for the Institute for Complementary Medicine in the School of Health Related Professions, in a news release. "The panel of experts who advised us on the trial wanted to make sure that we provided a fully integrated program that included philosophy, breathing practices, postures, relaxation and meditation."

For their findings, researchers conducted a small pilot study for a group of MS patients that lasted eight weeks. The patients who participated in the program were better able to walk for short distances and over longer periods following time spent doing yoga. These patients also had better balance while reaching backwards along with fine motor coordination.

More information regarding these findings will be presented on September 26 at the Symposium on Yoga Research at the Kripaulu Institute in Massachusetts.