An Individualized Yoga Programme for Multiple Sclerosis: A Case Study

Despite the evidence that yoga is beneficial for people with multiple sclerosis (MS), substantial in-depth qualitative studies of yoga and MS-and individualized yoga programmes (IYP), in particular-are lacking. The aims of this paper are (a) to conduct a case study on an IYP for one participant with MS in terms of her experience of yoga and how yoga affected her particular symptoms of MS, and (b) to better understand the unique and changing needs of someone with MS in the context of an IYP.

Data collected for this study were sourced from a qualitative case study design with data collected via a participant diary completed over the 24-week duration of an IYP; an exit interview after the final IYP session; and weekly records completed by the yoga teacher. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Over the course of the IYP, the female participant experienced an increased awareness of negative thoughts and feelings about MS and how it affected her and her body. As the programme progressed, she began to work through these feelings and, by the end of the programme, reported experiencing improvements in muscle tone, strength, balance, psychological wellbeing, and confidence.

Our findings highlight the importance of a programme individualized to meet the complex health and psychological needs of individuals with MS.