Yoga fans are quick to tout the flexibility and stress-relieving benefits of this ancient practice, but a new study suggests it may be an effective pain-management tool as well.

Researchers at Harbor UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles, Calif., found that just four weeks of regular yoga sessions significantly reduced the frequency and severity of chronic pain.

Eighteen men and women with persistent chronic pain attended 90-minute Iyengar yoga sessions, three times per week for one month. Iyengar yoga combines various yoga poses with meditative breathing exercises.

Using weekly questionnaires, researchers concluded participants were using less pain medication and had lower levels of anxiety than at the start of the study. Mood significantly improved as well.

Lead investigator Dr. Sonia D. Gaur believes yoga may be an effective pain management tool for those who live with chronic pain, but suggests more studies need to be done to confirm these benefits.

Source: Annual meeting of the American Psychiatric Association, May 2001.