Yoga in the Treatment of Osteoporosis

After collecting blood and urine samples, and pre-study DEXA scans, qualifying patients are
given an entry DEXA scan and a DVD with instructions to advance from beginner versions of 12
Iyengar-style yoga poses to more advanced levels in daily practice for 2 years. fter two
years or more, subsequent DEXA scans are recorded. Interested participants are also
encouraged to have hip and spine X-rays, and bone quality studies on study entry and two
years later. Actual subject participation, intercurrent illnesses, fractures and changes in
medication are self-monitored with an on line scorecard, supplemented by emails and/or
telephone calls when judged necessary by the PI. Results are calculated by change in bone
mineral density in the lumbar spine, hips and femurs by the DEXA scan, changes in
osteoarthritis according to the X-rays, and changes in bone quality before and two or more
years after beginning the ten minutes of daily yoga. Dose-response relationships between the
amount and intensity of yoga practice and bone mineral density and quality are sought.
Yoga-related fractures and other adverse effects are also noted.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Past DEXA scan and, all within 6 months of study entry, DEXA scan and normal values
for: Metabolic panel, TSH, PTH, ESR (or CRP), Vitamin D 25 hydroxy, Vitamin D 1,25
dihydroxy, Urine NTX.

Exclusion Criteria:

- Known metabolic bone disease such as osteogenesis imperfecta, current treatment with
steroids, chemotherapy, or currently healing fractures of lumbar spine, hips or
femurs.