The feasibility of an online yoga program to improve low back and pelvic pain in pregnant women

Abstract

Purpose

The study aims were, firstly, to develop an online-based yoga program for pregnant women with low back pain and pelvic pain and to evaluate the feasibility of the prototype. Secondly, it was to determine changes in the outcomes of the yoga program in terms of location and degree of low back and pelvic pain, degree of daily life disability, and depressive symptoms.

Methods

This was a feasibility study to examine practicality, acceptability, and continuity of the program, and to clarify changes in outcomes using a before/after descriptive design. Pregnant women with low back or pelvic pain and no pregnancy problems or complications were included in the study. The yoga program was 8 weeks in duration and consisted of daily yoga practice, pain log entries, and yoga sessions. The feasibility of the program was evaluated using data from survey forms and opinions at yoga sessions regarding practicality (safety and burden), acceptability, and continuity. In addition, changes in the location and degree of back and pelvic pain, degree of daily life disability, and depression were measured before, during, and at the end of the yoga program, and changes at the three time points were compared. St. Luke's International University research ethics review approval was obtained (21-AC094).

Results

There were five participants enrolled then, one participant dropped-out. Safety: There were no unusual abdominal tensions, mood discomfort, or falls during the program. Burden was generally described as “light,” but individual records varied. Acceptability was generally high for the materials, and continuity was high for the daily yoga practice while using the materials, with four participants able to complete the program. All five participants were aware of back pain before starting the program and two at the end of the program at time 3. Pelvic pain was perceived by three of the four participants before the start and by one at the end of the study. Pain severity decreased from a mean of 40 (SD 16.7) before starting, 32 (SD 29.5) during participation, and 32 (SD 29.5) at end; Oswestry Disability Index-mean decreased from 22% before start, 20% during participation, and 14% at end; Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale-mean decreased from 6 points before starting, 3 points during participation, and 4 points at end.

Conclusion

This yoga program is feasible and may reduce low back and pelvic pain. Future improvements are needed to expand the number of participants to reconsider the timing of program initiation, and to increase the number of target facilities and participants.