Can yoga have any effect on shoulder and arm pain and quality of life in patients with breast cancer? A randomized, controlled, single-blind trial

Objective: To examine the effects of yoga on shoulder and arm pain, quality of life (QOL), depression, and physical performance in patients with breast cancer. Methods: This prospective, randomized study included 42 patients. The patients in Group 1 underwent a 10-week Hatha yoga exercise program. The patients in Group 2 were included in a 10-week follow-up program. Our primary endpoint was arm and shoulder pain intensity. Results: The group receiving yoga showed a significant improvement in their pain severity from baseline to post-treatment, and these benefits were maintained at 2.5 months post-treatment. When compared to the control group, there were no statistically significant differences between the 2 groups with respect to the parameters assessed at the end of week 10. Conclusion: Yoga was an effective and safe exercise for alleviating shoulder and arm pain, which is a complication with a high prevalence in patients with breast cancer.