As yoga popularity continues to rise in the United States, the results of institutional and government-funded research into the therapeutic health benefits of yoga is now beginning to materialize. To date, various studies report significant results for several challenging medical conditions, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, osteoarthritis of the hands and cardiovascular disease.
In a randomized single-blind controlled clinical trial at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, researchers concluded, "In this preliminary study, a yoga-based regimen was more effective than wrist-splinting, or no treatment, in relieving some symptoms and signs of carpal tunnel syndrome." The study also noted that subjects in the yoga groups had significant improvement in grip strength and pain reduction, compared to control subjects.
Regarding yoga and osteoarthritis, a randomized controlled clinical trial published in the Journal of Rheumatology clearly found that, "The yoga-derived program was effective in providing relief in hand osteoarthritis."
Researchers have also evaluated the effects of yoga on those suffering from cardiovascular disease. A study treating heart disease patients with yoga, meditation and a vegetarian diet at Hanover Medical University in Germany reported a substantial reduction in blood pressure and cholesterol -- known high risk factors for heart disease.
"Science is now confirming what yogis have known all along," says Nateshvar Ken Scott, yoga master at Mountain Trek Fitness Resort in British Columbia. "And that is, yoga, when practiced regularly and with care, can heal the mind and body by relieving stress and strengthening organs and body systems."
