Yoga's Potential in Transforming RA Treatment: New AIIMS Study

A new AIIMS Delhi study reveals that yoga can significantly improve health outcomes for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. The research highlights yoga's ability to reduce inflammation, boost cellular function, and enhance overall quality of life. Benefits include improved joint mobility, reduced pain, and decreased stress levels, making yoga a cost-effective, side-effect-free therapy.

A recent study by AIIMS Delhi has shown that yoga can significantly improve health outcomes for patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

RA is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by joint inflammation, which can lead to extensive pain and damage, and may also affect critical organs such as the lungs, heart, and brain.

Conducted jointly by the Lab for Molecular Reproduction and Genetics, Anatomy Department, and the Department of Rheumatology AIIMS, the study explored the cellular and molecular benefits of yoga in RA patients. The findings suggest that yoga can lower inflammation, control cellular damage, and reduce oxidative stress (OS). It has also been found to balance cytokines, elevate endorphin levels, and reduce cortisol and CRP levels while maintaining melatonin rhythms, thereby breaking the cycle of inflammation and immune hyperactivity.

Furthermore, by enhancing telomerase enzyme activity and DNA repair mechanisms, yoga slows cellular aging. Improving mitochondrial function, yoga protects against telomere attrition and DNA damage by promoting energy metabolism and reducing OS. According to the Ayush ministry, these advantages contribute to the overall quality of life for RA patients.

A study led by Dr. Rima Dada of AIIMS reported reductions in pain perception, improved joint mobility, and better overall quality of life in patients practicing yoga. These findings underscore yoga's role in establishing immunological tolerance and molecular remission, making it a promising complementary therapy for RA patients.

By managing stress, yoga further alleviates RA symptoms and improves mitochondrial function. The practice of yoga promotes neuroplasticity, aiding in stress management and reducing depression severity. This comprehensive research provides compelling evidence for yoga as a cost-effective, natural alternative to conventional RA treatments, without the side effects associated with drugs.

(With inputs from agencies.)