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Summary The ancient practice of yoga might boost stroke survivors' balance and help them become more active.
According to a study that included 47 patients -- approximately three-quarters male -- who had suffered a stroke more than six months earlier and were assigned to one of three groups: a twice-weekly yoga group for eight weeks; a yoga-plus group that met twice weekly and also included a relaxation recording at least three times a week; and a usual care group.The yoga classes were taught by a registered yoga therapist and included modified yoga postures, relaxation and meditation. The yoga classes became more challenging each week.Compared to patients in the usual care group, those in the yoga groups showed significant improvements in their balance, were less afraid of falling and had higher scores for independence and quality of life.Many stroke survivors encounter long-term balance problems, which are associated with greater disability and an increased risk of falls. The new findings show that something like yoga in a group environment is cost effective and appears to improve motor function and balance for stroke survivors, lead researcher Arlene Schmid said in a journal news release.Schmid noted that rehabilitation therapy for stroke patients typically ends after six months but brain changes and physical improvements can continue to occur after six months.The problem is the health care system is not necessarily willing to pay for that change, said Schmid, who is a rehabilitation research scientist at Roudebush Veterans Administration Medical Center and Indiana University in Indianapolis. The study demonstrated that with some assistance, even chronic stroke patients with significant paralysis on one side can manage to do modified yoga poses.Schmid is also an assistant professor of occupational therapy at Indiana University-Purdue University.
