A recent study suggests men undergoing radiation therapy for prostate cancer may benefit from yoga. These poses are identified to help in reducing treatment side effects, improving life quality, relieving stress, and easing fatigue.
Dr. Neha Vapiwala of the Department of Radiation Oncology at the University of Pennsylvania's Perelman School of Medicine and colleagues recently presented their findings at the Society of Integrative Oncology's 12th International Conference in Boston, MA.
Medical News Today defined yoga as a mind and body practice that involves a combination of physical postures, breathing techniques, and deep meditation. Many previous clinicl studies have hailed this practice for its many health benefits not just to cancer patients but also to different individuals who are experiencing various symptoms and ailments.
"Data have consistently shown declines in these important measures among prostate cancer patients undergoing cancer therapy without any structured fitness interventions, so the stable scores seen with our yoga program are really good news," lead researcher Dr. Vapiwala explained in a news release.
Increasing blood flow and strengthening pelvic floor muscles are some of the notable positive clinical benefits of yoga. According to her, these aspects can improve the patients' urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction, two of the symptoms frequently associated with prostate cancer.
"There may also be a psychosocial benefit that derives from participation in a group fitness activity that incorporates meditation and promotes overall healthiness. And all of this ultimately improves general quality of life," she added.
Likewise, the research team included in their findings that "yoga is a feasible approach to maintaining quality of life for men being treated for prostate cancer". According to them, this study has represented one of many research projects the team is conducting - observing and pinpointing the best and most effective natural practices to help patients with such specific needs.
Food World News recently featured about some simple yoga poses you could do in the workplace.
