Immediate effect of specific yogic postures on gastric motility in diabetes mellitus patients -a randomized controlled trial

Yoga, the Indian system of medicine, lay emphasis on asanas as an essential component of therapy based on its disease model. All asanas with breathing seems to offer deep stimulation by activating the basic autonomic reflexes specially acting on the enteric division of autonomic nervous system by the intra abdominal pressure changes. It also enhances a mechanical effect of laxation. According to the Indian system of health, the apanavata in the gastrointestinal tract influences other vatas in the body leading to various disorders.(18) Though widely practiced the impact of asanas is yet to be established.

Hence this is the study to see the effect of yoga asanas on gastrointestinal motility with the hypothesis that, after the practice of asanas there will be an increase in gastrointestinal motility in diabetes mellitus.

a. Grouping: Two groups-

Group 1- case group (n)=34 (Specific yogic postures)

Group 2-control group (n)=34 ( supine rest with breathing awareness)

a. Method:

1)       Subjects satisfying the selection criteria and who have agreed to give consent for participation in the study are assessed at baseline.

2)     Then subjects were randomized into two groups [group 1 and group 2].

3)       Pre EGG will be taken for both groups.

4)       Series of asanas will be performed by group 1 under the guidance of a yoga and naturopathy physician.

5)       Post EGG will be taken immediately after the intervention for both groups.

6)    The whole data acquisition will be done in a supine position.