Yoga May Help Improve Balance After Stroke

Stroke survivors may be able to improve their balance through group yoga classes once they no longer receive rehabilitative care, according to new research published in Stroke, a journal of the American Heart Association.

Researchers looked at the potential benefits of practicing yoga for eight weeks among a small group of people considered chronic stroke survivors – those who had strokes more than six months earlier, according to a news release from the AHA. People often have balance problems after a stroke that can last a long time. Stroke survivors are at greater risk for falls and disability.

“For people with chronic stroke, something like yoga in a group environment is cost effective and appears to improve motor function and balance,” said lead researcher Arlene Schmid, an occupational therapist.

In order to participate in the small pilot study, each person had to be able to stand independently. The oldest stroke survivor was 90 years old.

Over the weeks, the classes gradually became more challenging. The students practiced modified yoga postures as well as relaxation and meditation techniques.

At the end of the eight weeks, researchers found that those who completed the yoga classes significantly improved their balance, the news release states. They also felt more independent and less afraid of having a fall. Many talked about being able to take a shower and not having to use a motorized scooter at the grocery store.

“For chronic stroke patients, even if they remain disabled, natural recovery and acute rehabilitation therapy typically ends after six months, or maybe a year,” said Schmid, a rehabilitation research scientist at Roudebush Veterans Administration-Medical Center and Indiana University.

But improvements can take longer.

“…We know for a fact that the brain still can change,” she said. “The problem is the healthcare system is not necessarily willing to pay for that change. The study demonstrated that with some assistance, even chronic stroke patients with significant paralysis on one side can manage to do modified yoga poses.”

Researchers noted that the study’s conclusions are limited due to its small size and lack of diversity. Further study is needed.

Source: American Heart Association news release

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