Effect of Tele-Yoga Therapy on Patients With Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain During Covid-19 Lockdown

Effect of Tele-Yoga Therapy on Patients With Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain During Covid-19 Lockdown: Randomized Clinical Trial

Covid-19 outbreak and lockdown measures raised significant concerns over clinical management of chronic pain patients around the world. Patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain (CMSP) are at high risk of physical disability, psychological distress, and poor quality of life. Analgesic medications were main management during lockdown, but opioid-related concerns have prompted to find immediate alternatives.

Present study was undertaken to determine whether patients randomized to tele-yoga therapy would experience less pain, disability and improved global health, adherence and satisfaction, compared with patients assigned to usual care.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients having pain that was musculoskeletal, defined as regional (joints, limbs, back, neck) or more generalized (fibromyalgia or chronic widespread pain);
• Persistent pain ( ≥3 months) despite trying conventional treatment.
• Access to virtual platform with internet.
• Ready to give informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Schizophrenia,
• Psychiatric disorder
• Cognitive impairment
• Suicidal ideation
• Current illicit drug use
• Terminal illness