Research Projects

Low back pain (LBP) is a common musculoskeletal public health issue affecting millions of people worldwide. It is a leading cause of disability and a significant economic burden on healthcare. In India, it is the second leading cause of Years Lived with Disability (YLDs) after iron deficiency and anemia. LBP affects all aspects of life, including biological, psychological, social, functional, and financial aspects. Various treatment options are available, but there is insufficient evidence for a multidimensional bio-psychosocial model. Mind-body interventions like yoga have gained popularity, but there is a need for a well-designed clinical trial to evaluate its effectiveness in managing LBP.

This community-based randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the long-term effects of Integrated Approach of Yoga Therapy (IAYT) on physical health, mental health, quality of life, and biomarkers in patients with chronic low back pain. The study will compare IAYT with physical exercise or usual care and use pain biomarkers at molecular level. The hypothesis is that IAYT may be more effective in managing functional disability, pain symptoms, and psychological factors, improving overall quality of life compared to physical exercise or usual care.