Yoga-Based Coaching for Lupus

(MiPAL Trial)

This trial explores whether a special yoga coaching program can reduce pain for people with lupus, a condition where the immune system attacks its own tissues, causing inflammation and pain. The study involves participants following the MiPAL program, which includes yoga sessions tailored to their needs. Individuals diagnosed with lupus, experiencing constant pain for at least three months, and stable on their medications are suitable candidates for this trial. Participants must be able to join virtual sessions and have the necessary technology to participate from home.

As an unphased study, this trial offers a unique opportunity to explore innovative pain management strategies tailored to participants' needs.

The trial requires that you have been on stable doses of your lupus-related medications, including prednisone, for at least 3 months before joining. It doesn't specify stopping any current medications, so you likely won't have to stop taking them.

This trial studies a yoga-based coaching program for people with lupus. Yoga, which involves physical exercise and relaxation, generally poses minimal risk to participants. Available research has not identified specific safety concerns or negative effects linked to yoga.

The trial is marked as "Not Applicable" for its phase, indicating it does not test a new drug or device. Instead, it examines how well yoga can help manage lupus symptoms. This suggests that any safety risks are likely very low, as yoga is widely practiced and well-tolerated by many.

Unlike traditional lupus treatments, which often involve medications like corticosteroids or immunosuppressants, the yoga-based coaching approach focuses on lifestyle modification and mind-body techniques. Researchers are excited about this treatment because it emphasizes holistic wellness and stress reduction, potentially reducing flare-ups and improving overall quality of life. By integrating mindfulness and physical activity, this method may offer a complementary pathway to manage lupus symptoms without the side effects commonly associated with medication.

Research has shown that yoga can reduce pain and improve the quality of life for individuals with long-term health issues. Although specific research on yoga for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is limited, yoga is known to lower stress, which often triggers lupus flare-ups. By reducing stress, yoga might decrease pain and fatigue in people with lupus. Additionally, yoga can enhance flexibility and muscle strength, potentially helping to manage symptoms. While more research is needed specifically on lupus, these benefits suggest yoga could be a useful tool for those with the condition.⁴⁶⁷⁸⁹