A new study by AIIMS, New Delhi, reveals that yoga can significantly benefit patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The research highlights yoga’s role in reducing inflammation, managing oxidative stress, and improving overall joint health.
RA is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints. It leads to joint pain, stiffness, and damage. In severe cases, RA affects vital organs like the lungs, heart, and brain. While medications help manage symptoms, this study suggests yoga can be an effective complementary therapy.
REDUCES INFLAMMATION AND OXIDATIVE STRESS
According to the AIIMS research, it lowers inflammation by regulating cellular damage and oxidative stress. It balances inflammatory cytokines, increases endorphin levels, and decreases cortisol and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. It also maintains melatonin rhythms, which can help disrupt the cycle of chronic inflammation.
SLOWS CELLULAR AGING AND BOOSTS IMMUNITY
At the molecular level, yoga enhances telomerase enzyme activity, aiding DNA repair and cell cycle regulation. This process slows down cellular aging. It also improves mitochondrial function, reducing DNA damage and telomere attrition. These benefits help regulate immune system activity, leading to better disease control in RA patients.
IMPROVED JOINT MOBILITY AND PAIN RELIEF
The study, led by Dr. Rima Dada at AIIMS and published in Scientific Reports, documented significant improvements in RA patients practicing yoga. Patients reported reduced pain perception, increased joint mobility, and decreased disability. Researchers attributed these benefits to yoga’s ability to establish immunological tolerance and molecular remission.
HELPS MANAGE STRESS AND DEPRESSION IN RA PATIENTS
Stress is a known trigger for RA symptoms. The study shows that yoga lowers cortisol levels, reducing stress-related inflammation. Additionally, it increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), melatonin, and sirtuin-1 (SIRT-1), all of which promote neuroplasticity. This helps patients develop better coping mechanisms, reducing the severity of comorbid depression.
YOGA AS A COST-EFFECTIVE AND SAFE ALTERNATIVE
Unlike medications, yoga has no side effects. It provides a natural, cost-effective approach to managing RA symptoms. By incorporating yoga into daily routines, patients can experience reduced stiffness, improved flexibility, and enhanced quality of life.
YOGA’S ROLE IN RA MANAGEMENT
This AIIMS study provides strong evidence that yoga can be a valuable complementary therapy for RA. Beyond pain relief, it helps regulate immune responses, improves joint function, and supports overall well-being. With its holistic benefits, it offers a promising alternative for those seeking natural ways to manage rheumatoid arthritis.
