title: Is yoga an effective treatment in the management of patients with chronic low back pain compared with other care modalities - a systematic review.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The aim of the study was to assess randomized-control trials (RCTs) to ascertain whether yoga is an effective treatment in the management of patients with chronic low back pain (cLBP) compared with other care modalities.
  
  
  METHODS
  A search strategy was formulated with key concepts identified using the PICO process. Four databases were searched in June 2012. Appropriate eligibility criteria were set and implemented.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Four randomized control trials met the inclusion criteria. All four papers found that yoga lead to a significant improvement in back function, and three demonstrated a significant improvement in back pain when compared with certain care modalities. All papers had significant limitations identified, however.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Given the limitations identified within the studies, the conclusions drawn must be considered conservatively. Although early results appear promising, but further well-designed RCTs are warranted, with multiple, specified comparator care modalities before firm conclusions can be gained.
authors: University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, UK. chill295@doctors.net.uk
authors: Christopher
authors: C
authors: Hill
mesh_terms: D002908:Chronic Disease; D006801:Humans; D017116:Low Back Pain / Q000628:therapy*; D019122:Meditation; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D015013:Yoga