Impact of Yoga Intervention on Pulmonary Functions in Young Nonhypoxemic Stable Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients at a Tertiary Care Center

Abstract Introduction: Persistent respiratory symptoms and airflow limitation characterize chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It is a progressive condition characterized by pulmonary and systemic inflammation, leading to numerous extrapulmonary consequences. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of yoga on pulmonary function in young, nonhypoxemic, stable patients with COPD at a tertiary care center. Methods: An intervention study was conducted in the Department of Physiology and Medicine at RUHS CMS and its associated hospitals, Jaipur. A total of 120 subjects were recruited. The cases (Group A) were selected according to the Global Initiative for Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) classification. GOLD stage 1 and 2 patients were confirmed by spirometry. All included COPD patients were referred for intervention through asanas and pranayama at a yoga center under the supervision of a certified yoga instructor, for a 45-min session, 6 days a week, and over 3 months. Results: Intragroup comparison from baseline and after 3 months intervention in study group showed a significant improvement with weight ( P < 0.05), body mass index (BMI) ( P < 0.05), forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) ( P < 0.05), forced vital capacity (FVC) ( P < 0.05), ratio of FEV1/FVC ( P < 0.05), slow vital capacity ( P < 0.05), and maximal voluntary ventilation (MVV) ( P < 0.05) as compared to control. Conclusion: Yoga intervention is a beneficial nonpharmacological therapy for young, stable COPD patients, as it improves pulmonary function parameters and reduces BMI through weight loss. Yoga improves blood circulation and enhances tissue perfusion, which in turn increases respiratory muscle strength and helps open blocked airways in patients with COPD. CTRI No: CTRI/2024/07/0698.