Impact of Structured Yoga Intervention on Musculoskeletal Health among Working Adults

Abstract

Repetitive, abnormal, continuous actions and postures are the cause of musculoskeletal discomfort and pain at work. In work environments, yoga therapy is helpful for pain and impairment. The present study aimed to evaluate the impact of a structured yoga intervention on musculoskeletal pain, perceived stress, sleep quality, and quality of life among working adults. The participants were divided into three categories: sedentary people (less than 150 minutes per weekly), physically active non-yoga practitioners, and normal yoga practitioners (at least three classes per weekday). In comparison to the sedentary subjects, the physically active and yoga-practicing groups had significantly higher QoL scores across all dimensions, according to one-way ANOVA and Pearson correlation (p < 0.01). Furthermore, the yoga practitioners had improved mental and social well-being, suggesting that yoga had greater benefits for mental health than general physical activity. Both the degree of regular physical activity and overall quality of life (r = 0.61) and the rate of yoga practice and psychological health (r = 0.68) showed a significant positive link, according to the correlation analysis. The findings highlight the need of implementing yoga and exercise programs systematically as part of a workplace good health initiative to lower stress levels, increase productivity, and improve people's general well-being. The study emphasizes the need for a policy-based approach that encourages active lifestyles in order to improve the mental health and quality of life of India's increasingly urbanizing working class.