| Problem: Although it has been determined that both exercise and stress reduction have positive effects in the treatment of Crohn's disease and remission duration, there is an exercise intensity ceiling, above which the disease symptoms may be aggravated, and below which exercise may be beneficial. Patients must engage in an exercise program, which respects this ceiling in order to avoid symptoms or exacerbating any existing discomfort. An exercise regimen of appropriate intensity also reduces stress. Yoga, which has elements of both physical activity and stress reduction, fits these requirements. Yoga has not yet been implemented into treatment of Crohn's disease patients. A yoga routine that is managed by a clinician familiar with Crohn's disease would be beneficial when implemented into treatment, and it is important to analyze its effects on patients who are diagnosed with Crohn's disease. Methods: Peer-reviewed clinical trials published after 2000, which contained relevant information regarding exercise, stress and their relationship to quality of life in Crohn's disease patients were included in the literature review. Results: Every study analyzed concluded that exercise was beneficial for Crohn's disease symptom reduction and accompanying patient quality of life reports. However, a ceiling for the intensity and type of exercise that patients can tolerate was also observed. Stress reduction was also found to lower the Crohn's Disease Activity Index score. Conclusions: Further research on the use of low-impact exercise and stress reduction through Hatha yoga routines will likely lead to significant improvements in the quality of life and symptom reports of patients with Crohn's disease. |
