Advanced Myotherapy place a high value on self-care education, making it a core component of our client care. This is something we feel makes the ultimate long term difference to those we work with.
As with most physical therapies, we offer corrective care to clients, with a strong focus on exercise for recovery. This extends to our classes.
Given that quality of life is something we are passionate about, we love being able to support and assist those experiencing debilitating symptoms from chronic pain and degeneration.
This is why we are constantly looking at the latest science and research to help us better our understanding of the clinical options for those suffering with treatable symptoms.
As such, we wanted to share our research, on the:
Scientific Reviews on Relaxation based therapies (Yoga) for Rheumatoid Arthritis..
Recent studies on Relaxation Yoga for Rheumatoid Arthritis have found significant improvement of symptoms, and function.
Findings on improved function and strength
A 2020 meta‑analysis covering 10 randomised controlled trials (840 patients, mostly female, aged 30–70) found that yoga significantly improved physical function and grip strength.
A more recent 2025 Oxford meta‑analysis emphasized that physical function, pain and disease activity scores improved in trial participants.
Newer Trials & Case-Based Evidence
A case-based review (2024, Kazakhstan study) with ten RA patients undergoing 3 months of yoga (2–3 sessions/week) reported reductions in morning stiffness.
Improvements were also seen in joint swelling and functioning; systolic blood pressure and cholesterol decreased slightly . An Randomised Control Trial from Restorative Neurology and Neuroscience (2019) showed that eight weeks of intensive yoga practice led to marked improvements in both physical and psychological symptoms along with favorable changes in inflammatory markers.
A pilot feasibility study in post‑menopausal women (relaxation‑based yoga, 10 weeks) showed reduced pain and depression, plus improved sleep and function, supporting acceptability and safety.
Additional Insights
Broader mind–body intervention reviews suggest yoga may have stronger effects than meditation alone in reducing morning stiffness, and inflammatory biomarkers in RA patients.
Smaller structured pilot studies over decades reported benefits in pain relief, flexibility, self‑efficacy, mental well‑being and mobility, with no reported adverse events.
Clinical Benefits Summarised
Physical Function & Strength
Yoga appears to reliably improve self‑reported function and may increase grip strength. Improvements in mobility and daily activities have been noted across several trials.
Disease Activity
Decreases in DAS‑28 scores (indicative of reduced clinical disease activity) have been observed in multiple studies and case series.
Pain & Stiffness
Some studies (e.g. case‑based, feasibility RCTs) report substantial reductions in pain VAS and morning stiffness duration. However, meta‑analysis did not find a statistically significant pooled effect of yoga on pain or tender/swollen joint counts, likely due to heterogeneity and small sample sizes.
Psychological & Quality-of-Life
Many interventions included breathing, mindfulness and relaxation leading to reduced depression, improved sleep and overall better mental well‑being.
Inflammatory Markers
Results are mixed—some trials report reduction in cytokines or other biomarkers; pooled meta‑analysis did not show statistically significant biomarker changes.
Limitations & Cautions
Small sample sizes and often low methodological rigor (pilot studies, lack of blinding, short durations). Heterogeneity in yoga styles (Iyengar, relaxation‑based, generic), dosage (frequency/duration), and co‑interventions. Outcomes varied across trials, making meta‑analysis challenging and reducing confidence in effect size estimates.
Disclaimer: Yoga should be considered complementary to, not a substitute for, pharmacotherapy and standard rheumatological care.
Choose Gentle/Adapted Styles: Interventions in studies involved modified, low-impact relaxation-based yoga (similar to our Controlled Gentle Body Balance Classes (at the Yea clinic) suitable for RA.
Qualified Instruction: For safe practice, seek out certified instructors experienced in arthritis modifications.
Consistency Matters: Most benefits shown from programs lasting 8–12 weeks with 2–3 sessions/week plus home practice. Tailored Practice: Modify postures based on disease activity and joint involvement under medical supervision.
Conclusion
Evidence suggests yoga may improve physical function, reduce clinical disease activity, and enhance grip strength in RA patients, with possible benefits for mental well-being and quality of life.
References
Primarily based on:
Meta‑analyses and systematic reviews (2020 and 2025) Case‑based review (2024) RCTs and feasibility trials (Restorative Neurology & Neuroscience, Musculoskeletal Care, etc.) Broader mind–body literature reviews
