Title : Management of low back pain with alignment-oriented yoga techniques and self-mobilization of Kukundara marma – A single group pre-post design study
Abstract:
Low back pain (LBP) is a common lifestyle disorder with profound implications for quality of life and economic productivity. Conventional treatment approaches often fail to address the root causes of a sedentary lifestyle, weak core strength, stress and poor posture. This necessitates exploring a holistic, integrative approach that is effective and sustainable. The clinical trial was registered in India with the clinical trial registration number CTRI/2024/07/070759. This study investigates the effectiveness of alignment-oriented yoga techniques and self-mobilization of Kukundara Marma (sacroiliac joint) as complementary therapies in managing chronic low back pain. Utilizing a single-group pre-post design, we aimed to evaluate changes in pain intensity and functional ability among participants using established assessment tools, namely the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). A total of 28 adults aged 20-60 years with a clinical history of chronic low back pain were recruited, with 26 completing the study and two participants dropping out due to scheduling issues. The study was conducted at a Govt Tertiary Ayurveda College in Kerala, India. Over 14 days, participants were given yoga sessions focused on alignment principles, which included postural awareness, breath control, and specific asanas aimed at enhancing spinal flexibility and core strength. Concurrently, self-mobilization techniques targeting the Kukundara Marma were introduced, encompassing gentle stretches and movements designed to alleviate discomfort in the sacroiliac region. Outcome measures were assessed pre-and post-intervention. There was a statistically significant reduction in pain levels (p < 0.001) and improved functional capacity, as reflected in ODI scores. 24 out of 26 participants reported substantial relief from pain and an increased ability to perform daily activities. These findings highlight the potential of integrating traditional practices such as yoga and marma therapy into contemporary pain management strategies. This study contributes to the evidence supporting non-pharmacological approaches to chronic pain management, emphasizing the importance of individualized and holistic treatments. Integrating alignment-oriented yoga with self-mobilization techniques addresses cost-effective pain relief techniques, promoting long-term wellness and quality of life improvements. Our findings advocate for further research to explore these interventions' efficacy across large, diverse populations for integrating traditional and complementary medicine into the mainstream for pain management.
