title: Poststroke balance improves with yoga: a pilot study.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Balance impairment is common after stroke; modified yoga may be able to improve balance and other important poststroke variables. Scientific-evidence is needed to support such treatment interventions. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of a yoga-based rehabilitation intervention on balance, balance self-efficacy, fear of falling (FoF), and quality of life after stroke.
  
  
  METHODS
  This was a prospective, randomized, pilot study of yoga-based rehabilitation for people with chronic stroke. All yoga sessions were taught by a registered yoga therapist, occurred twice per week for 8 weeks and included seated, standing, and floor postures with relaxation and meditation. Balance was assessed with the Berg Balance Scale, balance self-efficacy with the Activities-specific Balance Confidence Scale, FoF with a dichotomous yes/no question, and quality of life with the Stroke Specific Quality of Life scale.
  
  
  RESULTS
  There were no significant differences between wait-list control (n=10) and yoga (n=37) groups in baseline or follow-up scores. However, using within-group comparisons, yoga group data demonstrated significant improvement in balance (Berg Balance Scale, 41.3±11.7 vs 46.3±9.1; P<0.001) and FoF (51% vs 46% with FoF; P<0.001).
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  A group yoga-based rehabilitation intervention for people with chronic stroke has potential in improving multiple poststroke variables. Group yoga may be complementary to rehabilitation, may be possible in medical-based and community-based settings, and may be cost-effective. Further testing of group yoga-based rehabilitation interventions is warranted.  Clinical Trial Registration- URL: http://clinicaltrials.gov. Unique Identifier: NCT01109602.
authors: OTR, Roudebush VA Medical Center, 1481 W. 10th Street, 11H, Indianapolis, IN, USA. arlene.schmid@va.gov
authors: Arlene A
authors: AA
authors: Schmid
authors: Marieke
authors: M
authors: Van Puymbroeck
authors: Peter A
authors: PA
authors: Altenburger
authors: Nancy L
authors: NL
authors: Schalk
authors: Tracy A
authors: TA
authors: Dierks
authors: Kristine K
authors: KK
authors: Miller
authors: Teresa M
authors: TM
authors: Damush
authors: Dawn M
authors: DM
authors: Bravata
authors: Linda S
authors: LS
authors: Williams
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D002908:Chronic Disease; D004185:Disability Evaluation; D005081:Exercise Therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D010865:Pilot Projects; D004856:Postural Balance / Q000502:physiology*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011788:Quality of Life; D020127:Recovery of Function; D000071939:Stroke Rehabilitation; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D015013:Yoga