February 2016 Vol. 4 No.2

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Original Research Article

Yoga Therapy Langhana Breathing Practice for Chronic Pain Management

Gabriela Binello (MA), Marcela Nastri (PhD), ^*Alejandra Mazzola, María de Luján Calcagno, Silvina del Luca, Julio Honorio Pueyrredón (MD) and Fernando Salvat (MD).

Pain Center, Department of Neurology, Institute for Neurological Research Dr. Raúl Carrea (FLENI), Buenos Aires, Argentina

*Corresponding Author’s E-mail: mazzolaale@yahoo.com.ar

Accepted January 10, 2016

Abstract

Chronic Pain is defined as an unpleasant and subjective sensorial and emotional experience that prevails further than the usual course of an acute injury or disease. People in pain are in an overwhelming state of continued suffering that progressively disrupts their sense of control and wellbeing. Apart from the pharmacological and psychological interventions currently applied, many researchers suggest that body-mind techniques are also helpful. Pranayama langhana breathing yoga therapy practice (PLBYP) is a particular selection, combination and adjustment of classical breathing techniques that promotes mind-body calmness and relaxation. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate PLBYTP in the management of chronic pain patients. Forty (40) patients were recruited from FLENI Interdisciplinary chronic pain outpatient program (FICPOP) and divided into 2 groups. Each group completed 10 sessions of PLBYTP and Pain Management Group with relaxation techniques (PMG). A battery of self-reported questionnaires estimating pulse rate, anxiety (state and trait) and quality of life were administered at the beginning and at the end of the treatment for objective outcome evaluation. Pain level and breaths per minute count were assessed at the beginning and the end of each session. Patients that completed both interventions showed positive results in pain management. PPLBYTP sessions showed significant improvements in reducing the number of breaths per minute. We think that the way of breathing may influence autonomic and pain processing.

Key words: Body-mind Techniques, Chronic Pain, Interdisciplinary Pain Program, Pranayama Langhana Breathing, Yoga Practice