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Online Yoga Classes Effective for Chronic Low Back Pain Relief

• A new study reveals that virtual yoga classes significantly reduce chronic low back pain compared to standard medical care. • Participants in online yoga sessions experienced a sixfold greater reduction in pain and a nearly threefold improvement in back-related function. • The study also noted a 34% decrease in pain medication use and a tenfold improvement in sleep quality among yoga participants. • The benefits of online yoga were sustained at 24 weeks, highlighting its potential as a long-term therapeutic option.

A recent study indicates that online yoga classes can effectively alleviate chronic low back pain, offering a convenient alternative to in-person sessions. The research, published in JAMA Network Open, highlights the potential of virtual yoga as a therapeutic option for individuals seeking relief from persistent back pain.
The study involved 140 participants with chronic low back pain, all of whom were members of Cleveland Clinic’s Employee Health Plan. Participants were randomly assigned to either a 12-week virtual live-streamed yoga class or continued with their usual medical care. The yoga program was specifically designed for virtual delivery and tailored to address low back pain.

Key Findings

The results demonstrated a significant reduction in pain among those participating in the online yoga classes. Specifically, participants experienced a sixfold greater reduction in pain compared to the control group. Furthermore, they showed a nearly threefold improvement in back-related function. According to Dr. Robert Saper, chair of wellness and preventive medicine at Cleveland Clinic, this research validates virtual yoga as a safe and effective treatment for chronic low back pain.

Additional Benefits

Beyond pain reduction and improved function, the study also revealed that 34% fewer patients in the yoga group reported using pain medication. Participants also reported a tenfold greater improvement in sleep quality. These benefits persisted at the 24-week mark, suggesting the long-term efficacy of virtual yoga for managing chronic low back pain.

Implications for Treatment

The findings suggest that online yoga classes could serve as a valuable first-line treatment for chronic low back pain, aligning with guidelines that recommend physical therapy or yoga before resorting to painkillers. Hallie Tankha, a research faculty member in wellness and preventive medicine at Cleveland Clinic, emphasized that yoga offers a comprehensive approach to managing low back pain, a condition often inadequately addressed by traditional treatments. The focus now shifts to increasing access to this beneficial treatment option.
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Reference News

[1]
Online Yoga Classes Can Ease Lower Back Pain
drugs.com · Apr 17, 2025

Online yoga classes significantly reduce chronic lower back pain, with participants experiencing a sixfold reduction in ...

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