RST4: Evidence-Based Approaches to Yoga as a Therapy in People with IBS

RST4: Evidence-Based Approaches to Yoga as a Therapy in People with Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Clinical Impact and Study Methodology

Presenter bio: Maitreyi Raman, MD, MSc

This session will provide a comprehensive and scientifically rigorous overview of research examining the effects of yoga interventions on digestive diseases. The presentation will synthesize current evidence from randomized controlled trials and observational studies, focusing on both functional and inflammatory gastrointestinal disorders. Emphasis will be placed on methodological approaches, study design, and the analysis of physiological and psychosocial outcomes associated with yoga-based therapies. Key findings regarding mechanisms of action—including modulation of the gut-brain axis, autonomic regulation, central nervous system function, and stress reduction—will be discussed. We will also address the integration of yoga within standard clinical management, highlighting its efficacy as a complementary treatment for symptom alleviation and enhancement of patient quality of life, and provide insight into optimal approaches toward methodological considerations in yoga research.

Learning Objectives

1. Describe the role of yoga as a therapeutic strategy for people diagnosed with digestive diseases.
2. Discuss mechanisms of action for yoga’s benefits.
3. Discuss approaches to develop methodologically robust clinical trials to evaluate yoga as a treatment.