The intervention comprises participants with IBS to undergo Ashtanga yoga sessions in a group led by an authorized yoga teacher for a total period of 10 weeks. The first 4 weeks consisted of 1 session/week and the following 6 weeks consisted of 1 session/2 weeks. All movements and exercises are performed based on the individual's personal capacity in order to avoid distinct discomfort or pain. Patients testing positive for IBS will be recruited for the study from primary care. Measurements of IBS symptoms, visceral sensitivity, extraintestinal symptoms and quality of life will be assessed at pre-treatment, post-treatment and 6-month follow-up. Specific statistical methods will be performed to assess changes from pre- to post-treatments and changes from post-treatment to 6-month-follow-up. Effects sizes for within group changes will also be calculated.
The study aims to test the effect of Ashtanga yoga on well-being in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The intervention comprises group sessions on the Ashtanga school of yoga. Participants are recruited from primary care and measurements on well-being and IBS symptoms are conducted at pre-treatment, post-treatment and 6-month follow-up.