Impact of Yoga Intervention on Maintenance Hemodialysis Patients

Abstract Introduction: In spite of advancements in hemodialysis and supportive medications, long-term outcomes in maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) have not improved much. Lower levels of social support, decreased behavioral compliance with the dialysis prescription, and increased negative perception of the effects of illness have been associated with increased mortality. Nonpharmacological approach like Yoga may help improve outcomes in these patients. Materials and Methods: Patients of chronic renal failure, aged 18 years and above, on MHD for at least 1 month were included. A baseline assessment of the level of mental and physical fitness and absence of chronic disabling conditions which could limit patient understanding and physical performance of yoga was made. Patients were counseled and educated on yoga protocol. Yoga intervention was practiced for 3 months. Data were collected at baseline and after 3 months on patient characteristics, lab parameters, and KDQOL-SF36 questionnaire. Results: A total of 75 patients were counseled, 45 took part in the study, 32 completed the 3-month study period. Age ranged from 18 to 67 years with 22% female and 78% males. Patients showed a trend toward a decrease in hypertension medicines. Significant increase in mean albumin levels (3.84 g/dL to 4.26 g/dL), hemoglobin levels (7.71 g/dL to 9.27 g/dL), and calcium levels (8.5 mg/dL to 8.9 mg/dL) was seen. Seven out of the eight parameters within the KDQOL-SF36 scoring exhibited statistically significant improvement ( P < 0.05). Conclusion: Yoga, a nonpharmacological and cost-effective complementary therapy for MHD patients, has a significant positive impact both on physiological and psychological markers and the overall quality of life of these patients.