A small study published in Family Practice News (November 1, 2004:49) examined the effects of yoga exercise in obese women with knee osteoarthritis. The study included seven middle-aged women who did not regularly exercise.
Participants took part in an eight-week yoga class. At the end of the program, the women experienced a 47% reduction in pain and a 39% improvement in disability, as measured by the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC). Improvements in range of motion were also observed.
Because of joint limitations and body size considerations, the authors emphasized that yoga programs for patients with knee osteoarthritis should be carefully tailored to the individual, with appropriate modifications to ensure safety.
