Yoga in the Treatment of Osteoporosis

The study measures change in bone mineral density by the DEXA scan before and two or more years after beginning ten minutes of daily yoga designed to put pressure on the spine, hips and femur.

After collecting blood and urine samples, and pre-study DEXA scans, qualifying patients are given an entry DEXA scan and a DVD with instructions to advance from beginner versions of 12 Iyengar-style yoga poses to more advanced levels in daily practice for 2 years. fter two years or more, subsequent DEXA scans are recorded. Interested participants are also encouraged to have hip and spine X-rays, and bone quality studies on study entry and two years later. Actual subject participation, intercurrent illnesses, fractures and changes in medication are self-monitored with an on line scorecard, supplemented by emails and/or telephone calls when judged necessary by the PI. Results are calculated by change in bone mineral density in the lumbar spine, hips and femurs by the DEXA scan, changes in osteoarthritis according to the X-rays, and changes in bone quality before and two or more years after beginning the ten minutes of daily yoga. Dose-response relationships between the amount and intensity of yoga practice and bone mineral density and quality are sought. Yoga-related fractures and other adverse effects are also noted.

Inclusion Criteria: Past DEXA scan and, all within 6 months of study entry, DEXA scan and normal values for: Metabolic panel, TSH, PTH, ESR (or CRP), Vitamin D 25 hydroxy, Vitamin D 1,25 dihydroxy, Urine NTX. Exclusion Criteria: Known metabolic bone disease such as osteogenesis imperfecta, current treatment with steroids, chemotherapy, or currently healing fractures of lumbar spine, hips or femurs.

Fishman, LM. "Yoga for Osteoporosis - A pilot study." Topics in Geriatric Rehabilitation Vol. 25, No. 3, 2009 pp. 244-250.