Journal of Novel Physiotherapies
Open Access

Abstract

Improvement in flexibility of soft tissues by yogasanas was reviewed. Considering this, tightness of various muscles was checked which have direct influence on the knee complex. Hip flexors, hamstrings and overall flexion by Finger-floor distance was outcome measures for flexibility. In Part-I total of 165 yoga practitioners were screened with self-explanatory questionnaire for inclusion and onetime assessment for long-term retrospective evaluation and this was done on 105 (55 male and 50 female) participants. Prospective studies include 6 months protocol- Part-II Healthy adults: 25 (10 M and 15 F) pre-post set of yogasanas practice. Hip flexor stretch improved by a mean of 10 degrees as measured by hip extension with 90 degrees of flexion at the knee. Hamstrings flexibility increased by a mean of approximately 9 degrees as measured by the popliteal angle. Global spine and hamstrings flexibility changed by 2.5 centimeters. Hip adductors and internal rotators showed improved flexibility at complex pose, baddha-konasana by 14 degrees. Body mass index did not vary. In Part-III fifty patients with knee osteoarthritis were given yogasanas protocol. In Part-IV combined protocol of yogasanas and physiotherapy. Statistically significant results in flexibility components, knee and osteoarthritis outcome score and American Knee Society knee score were observed. No practitioner reported experiencing an adverse effect or event due to practice. Yogasanas improved flexibility, correct asymmetry and improved function.

Biography

Email: nilimabedekar@yahoo.com