EFFECTS OF CHAIR SURYANAMASKAR IN COMMUNITY DWELLING ELDERLY PATIENTS WITH KINESIOPHOBIA

Background: Aging is a natural and irreversible process, associated with physiological and psychological changes that reduces mobility, balance and independence. Kinesiophobia is fear of movement due to painful injury or reinjury. It limits physical activity in the elderly. Chair Suryanamaskar, a seated form of yoga, integrates gentle posture and breathing techniques, which enhances body awareness, improves flexibility, strength and psychological confidence. Methods: Thirty elderly individuals aged 60–80 years with Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia (TSK) scores >37 were divided into two groups: Chair Suryanamaskar and Walking. Both interventions were performed three times weekly for four weeks. Results: Both Chair Suryanamaskar (44.5±4.93 to 41.8±5.02; p<0.001, d=1.84) and Walking (44.4±3.33 to 41.6±4.21; p<0.001, d=1.48) showed significant reductions in kinesiophobia. No significant difference was found between groups (p=0.83). Conclusion: Chair Suryanamaskar and Walking were equally effective in reducing kinesiophobia in elderly individuals. Chair Suryanamaskar provides a safe, accessible, and culturally relevant option for improving physical and mental well-being among seniors. Keywords: Chair Suryanamaskar, Kinesiophobia, Elderly, Tampa Scale, Yoga, Community Rehabilitation.