Future program considerations
Dr. Raman and colleagues are interested in understanding the mechanisms that underlie the efficacy of mind-body interventions. They also plan to test the virtual yoga program in a mobile app, called LyfeMD, which is intended to support patients with digestive diseases through evidence-based dietary programs and mind-body interventions, such as guided meditation, breathing exercises, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
“We know that patients are looking for all possible resources,” Dr. Raman said. “Our next goal is to better understand how an app-based intervention can be effective, even without a live instructor.”
Future studies should also consider clinicians’ perspectives, she noted. In previous studies, Dr. Raman and colleagues have found that physicians are open to recommending yoga as a therapeutic option for patients, but some are unsure how to prescribe a recommended dose, frequency, or type of yoga.
“When treating patients with IBS, it is important to think broadly and creatively about all our treatment options,” said Elyse Thakur, PhD, a clinical health psychologist at Atrium Health Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Charlotte, N.C.
Dr. Thakur, who wasn’t involved with this study, specializes in gastrointestinal health psychology. She and colleagues use numerous complementary and alternative medicine options with patients.
“We have to remember that people may respond differently to available treatment options,” she said. “It is imperative to understand the evidence so we can have productive conversations with our patients about the pros and cons and the potential benefits and limitations.”
The study did not receive a specific grant from a funding agency. The authors and Dr. Thakur declared no relevant financial relationships.
A version of this article first appeared on Medscape.com.