Alternative und integrative Medizin

Yoga as a Treatment for Toxicities Caused by Cancer

Abstract

Andrew Newberg

Low-intensity yoga, specifically gentle hatha and restorative, has been shown to be safe, effective and feasible for treating sleep disruption, fatigue related to cancer, cognitive impairment, psychosocial distress and musculoskeletal symptoms in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy and radiation as well as in cancer survivors, according to 24 phase II and one phase III clinical trials. If a patient is suffering from these toxicities, doctors should think about prescribing yoga by referring them to trained yoga practitioners. To confirm these findings and investigate additional yoga types, doses and delivery methods for treating cancer-related toxicities in patients and survivors, further definitive phase III clinical trials are required.