Inhale, Exhale: The Therapeutic Effect of Yoga on Physiological and Psychological Symptoms in Patients with Parkinson’s Disease

Abstract

Background: Parkinson’s disease (PD) has a high prevalence in Canada, thus research on this neurodegenerative condition is essential to further our knowledge on the etiopathogenesis of this condition. PD is characterized by a loss of dopamine in the cells. This neurotransmitter functions by sending signals from the brain to the muscles to control movements. As a result of the lack of dopamine, there are several symptoms including tremors, bradykinesia, rigidity. Currently, dopaminergic therapy is the standard for managing the physical motor symptoms associated with PD. This therapy does not address the psychological or quality of life of a patient with the disease. Yoga practice has been shown to improve fatigue, stress, depression and well-being in patients with chronic illnesses. Recent research suggests that yoga can improve physiological and psychological symptoms in PD. Objectives: The aim of this structured literature review is to determine whether the literature indicates that yoga has a positive therapeutic benefit in physiological and psychological symptoms among patients diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Methods: We performed a comprehensive search in the PubMed and Web of science electronic databases and searched the references from the articles found to review relevant articles in English, French and Portuguese, using keywords "yoga” and “Parkinson’s" and “quality of life”. Inclusion and exclusion criteria of the articles were predetermined and reviewed. Results: A total of 126 articles published from 2000 to 2017 were available. Of 126 articles, 7 articles were included in this review. Based on the available literature, yoga could be considered as an effective adjuvant for the patients with PD. Conclusion:The existing evidence supports that the practice of yoga has shown to be effective in improving various physiological and psychological symptoms in PD. Limited literature is available on the topic therefore further research needs to be completed.