A Case Study of Yoga-Controlled Symptom Remission in Fibromyalgia Syndrome: A Holistic Approach

In this peculiar case study, we extensively explored the effects of 6 weeks of supervised yoga on the endogenous pain modulatory system, autonomic profile, and corticomotor excitability.

A 29-year-old woman diagnosed with fibromyalgia (FMS) was suggested 6 weeks of supervised yoga because the pharmaceutical treatments were ineffective. Assessment was done at baseline, 2 weeks, and post-6 weeks for pain, cognitive skills, sleep quality, anxiety, and depression status. An autonomic profile was done, followed by flexibility and corticomotor excitability assessments.

Reduction in pain and tender points. Improvements in sleep quality, flexibility, and cognitive skills were observed after 6 weeks. Pain perception and cortical plasticity showed improvement. Autonomic function test shows higher high frequency after intervention. This report supports the view that yoga, as a holistic approach alone, is effective in ameliorating pain and improving dysautonomia. Hence, it may be considered as a therapeutic intervention for FMS in rare cases.