Evaluation of yoga therapy programme for patients of bronchial asthma

METHODS: The effects of a yoga therapy program were studied on 46 patients of chronic bronchial asthma including exercise capacity, pulmonary functions and blood gases. Exercise capacity was measured by 3 tests: (i) 12 min walk test: (ii) physical fitness index by modified Harvard step test; and (iii) Exercise-Liability index. RESULTS: Yoga therapy resulted in an increase in pulmonary functions and exercise tolerance. A one-year follow-up study showed a good to fair response with reduced symptoms scores and drug requirements in these subjects.