Feasibility of a Yoga Intervention in an Inpatient Limb Loss Rehabilitation Program.

Abstract

Background: Limb loss is a life-changing event, which may be associated with limited mobility, pain, and low mood. Yoga interventions have been found to be beneficial for improving emotional wellness and pain in other patient populations. The benefits of including yoga in limb loss rehabilitation have not been well studied.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine if an adaptive yoga program would be suitable for individuals with newly acquired limb loss in a rehabilitation program.

Methodology: A yoga video was co-designed by rehabilitation clinicians and a limb loss patient partner certified in yoga instruction. Surveys were used to collect patients' socio-demographics and previous yoga experience. Participants completed a therapist guided group yoga video session, and then given online access to practice independently. Post-yoga participation surveys and qualitative interviews were conducted with patients to determine acceptance and feasibility of the yoga intervention.

Findings: Twenty-four participants with lower limb amputation(s) were approached to participate. The majority of participants (63%) had dysvascular-related amputations. Nineteen out of 24 recruited patients (79%) completed the yoga video session and the pre-yoga survey. Sixteen out of 19 participants completed the post-yoga survey, and eight also completed a qualitative interview. Five had previously undertaken yoga but rated themselves as novices. All participants felt that yoga was beneficial, easy to complete, and should be included in rehabilitation. Participants found yoga to be relaxing and some noted reduction in pain. Most preferred to do yoga in a group. Five out of eight patients (63%) interviewed continued to do the yoga video independently in hospital and post-discharge. Challenges with the yoga intervention included lack of a quiet yoga space, and dedicated time given other appointments/priorities.

Conclusion: Yoga was widely accepted by the inpatient limb loss population. Yoga may complement traditional limb loss rehabilitation by providing patients a relaxing experience; however, further research is needed.