Yoga may be a beneficial complementary therapy for patients with heart failure. According to a study, significant long-term improvements are noted in patients practicing yoga in addition to their drug treatment.
A study presented at the Heart Failure 2024 scientific congress of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) highlighted the benefits of yoga in patients suffering from heart failure. Led by Dr Ajit Singh of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), this research highlights the positive role yoga can play as a complement to traditional medicines.
Heart failure: not to be neglected
Heart failure affects more than 64 million people worldwide and can seriously affect quality of life. Patients often experience fatigue, shortness of breath, and have difficulty carrying out daily activities. Although previous studies have already shown that yoga can help, this new research highlights its long-term benefits.
The study involved patients aged 30 to 70 years, who had undergone a recent cardiac procedure and were taking medication as recommended. Of the 85 participants, 40 were assigned to the yoga group and 45 to the control group. All continued to take their usual medications.
Yoga, an effective complementary therapy
Patients in the yoga group attended sessions supervised by experienced teachers, where they learned breathing, meditation and relaxation techniques. After a week of supervision, they were encouraged to practice yoga at home for 50 minutes once a week, with regular follow-up.
Outcomes were assessed at six months and one year, focusing on cardiac structure and function, blood pressure, heart rate, weight, and more. Compared to the control group, the yoga group showed significant improvements in all of these measures, demonstrating a stronger heart and increased ability to carry out daily activities.
“Patients who practiced yoga in addition to taking their medications felt better, were able to do more, and had stronger hearts than those who only took medications for their heart failure“said study author Dr. Ajit Singh in a statement.”Results suggest yoga may be a beneficial complementary therapy for patients with heart failure“.
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