Treating Major Depression With Yoga: A Prospective, Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial

Sponsor
University of California, San Francisco (Other)
Overall Status
Completed
CT.gov ID
NCT01210651
Collaborator
Mental Insight Foundation (Other), Pritzker Family Foundation (Other), Mount Zion Health Fund (Other)
38
1
2
8
4.7

Study Details

Study Description

Brief Summary

This was a randomized controlled pilot trial to evaluate clinical efficacy and feasibility of hatha yoga as a mono-therapy for major depression. Investigators recruited 38 adults in San Francisco meeting criteria for major depression of mild-to-moderate severity, per structured psychiatric interview and scores of 14-28 on Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI). At screening, individuals engaged in psychotherapy, antidepressant pharmacotherapy, herbal/nutraceutical mood therapies, or mind-body practices were excluded. Twenty participants were randomized to 90-minute hatha yoga practice groups twice weekly for 8 weeks. Eighteen participants were randomized to 90-minute attention control education groups twice weekly for 8 weeks. Certified yoga instructors delivered both interventions at a university clinic. Primary outcome was depression severity, measured by BDI scores every 2 weeks from intervention start at 0 weeks until finish at 8 weeks. Secondary outcomes were self-efficacy and self-esteem, measured by scores on the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES) and Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) at 0 weeks and 8 weeks. Blinded assessors analyzed whether change in outcome measures would be statistically comparable between the two intervention groups.

Condition or Disease Intervention/Treatment Phase
  • Behavioral: Hatha Yoga Practice Group
  • Behavioral: Attention Control Education Group
N/A

Detailed Description

This was a prospective, single-center, single-blind, randomized, controlled, parallel group, pilot trial of an 8-week hatha yoga program as mono-therapy in major depression. Recruitment occurred from May to October 2010, and the trial was concluded in January 2011.

We recruited 38 adults from the San Francisco community who met criteria for major depression of mild-to-moderate severity, as per screening diagnostic evaluation with the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI) and scores of 14 through 28 on the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI). At screening, individuals engaged in psychotherapy, antidepressant pharmacotherapy, herbal/nutraceutical mood remedies, or any mind-body practices were excluded.

Eligible participants were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to one of two instructor-led intervention groups: a hatha yoga practice group assigned to 90-minute hatha yoga practice sessions twice weekly for 8 weeks, versus an attention control education group assigned to 90-minute yoga history seminars twice weekly for 8 weeks. Participants in the hatha yoga group learned and practiced a specific sequence of classical yoga breathing techniques, mindful body postures, and a final deep relaxation pose. The attention control education group explored the history and philosophy of the main branches of yoga through seminars featuring lectures, documentary films, and interactive dialogue between instructor and participants; the seminars were designed to control for non-specific mood benefits of the hatha yoga intervention, such as attention from study personnel, peer interaction, time spent away from routine activities, and anticipation/interest related to mastering novel yoga-related information.

Stratified block randomization was undertaken to ensure that each intervention group had equal numbers of participants with mild depression (per screening BDI scores of 14 to 19) versus moderate depression (per screening BDI scores of 20 to 28).

Participants were informed at screening that anyone randomized to the education group would be offered 16 free hatha yoga classes, upon completion of the study, to learn and practice the same exercises taught to the hatha yoga practice group.

The primary outcome was depression severity, measured by BDI scores at 2-week intervals from intervention start at 0 weeks until intervention end at 8 weeks. Secondary outcomes were self-efficacy and self-esteem, measured respectively by scores on the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES) and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) at 0 weeks and at 8 weeks. Blinded assessors analyzed outcome data from both intervention groups, testing whether change in outcome measures would be statistically comparable between the two groups.

Study Design

Study Type:
Interventional
Actual Enrollment :
38 participants
Allocation:
Randomized
Intervention Model:
Parallel Assignment
Masking:
Single (Outcomes Assessor)
Primary Purpose:
Treatment
Official Title:
Treating Major Depression With Yoga: A Prospective, Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial
Study Start Date :
May 1, 2010
Actual Primary Completion Date :
Jan 1, 2011
Actual Study Completion Date :
Jan 1, 2011

Arms and Interventions

Arm Intervention/Treatment
Experimental: Hatha Yoga Practice Group

Participants in this group practiced 90-minute sessions of hatha yoga exercises twice weekly for a total of 8 weeks.

Behavioral: Hatha Yoga Practice Group
The hatha yoga intervention was a sequence of classical yoga practices, comprised of breathing techniques, mindful body postures, and a final deep relaxation pose. The same sequence was used in all sessions. Yoga practices were broken down into component elements and taught progressively to each student in accordance with his or her ability. Participants were encouraged to remain within their range of motion or comfort. Accommodations were made for those with limitations in tolerance or flexibility for any exercise. Blocks, bolsters and other props were used to support participants in learning and holding yoga poses safely, particularly during back-bends or inverted poses. The intervention was delivered by a licensed, registered nurse, who was also a registered yoga teacher.
Other Names:
  • Yoga Practice Group, Hatha Yoga Group, Yoga Exercise Group
  • Active Comparator: Attention Control Education Group

    Participants in this group attended 90-minute educational seminars on yoga history twice weekly for a total of 8 weeks.

    Behavioral: Attention Control Education Group
    The educational seminars taught to participants covered the history and philosophy of the main branches of yoga. Documentary films were used during the seminars to enhance lectures, and interactive dialogue was encouraged between instructor and participants. Seminars were designed to control for non-specific mood benefits of study participation, such as attention from instructors, peer interaction, time spent away from routine activities, and anticipation/interest related to mastering novel yoga-related information. Since participants would join the attention control group on a rolling basis, seminars were designed to function as stand-alone educational modules, rather than requiring presentation in a specific sequence. The instructor for the seminars was a registered yoga teacher.
    Other Names:
  • Attention Control Group, Education Group, Yoga History Group
  • Outcome Measures

    Primary Outcome Measures

    1. Intent-to-Treat Analysis of Adjusted Mean Beck Depression Inventory-II Scores Over Intervention Period [0 wks, 2 wks, 4 wks, 6 wks, 8 wks]

      The Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI) is a 21-item validated instrument for the self-report of depressive symptoms, with individual item scores summed to yield a total possible BDI score that ranges from 0-63. BDI scores from 0-13 suggest absent to minimal depressive symptoms, from 14-19 mild symptoms, from 20-28 moderate symptoms, and from 29-63 severe symptoms. Regression analysis software examined the BDI scores measured in study participants every 2 wks from intervention start at 0 wks until intervention end at 8 wks, using maximum likelihood estimations to derive an adjusted mean BDI score for each intervention group at each measurement point.

    2. Total Change Scores on Beck Depression Inventory-II Among Study Completers [0 wks and 8 wks]

      The Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI) is a 21-item validated instrument for the self-report of depressive symptoms, with individual item scores summed to yield a total possible BDI score that ranges from 0-63. BDI scores from 0-13 suggest absent to minimal depressive symptoms, from 14-19 mild symptoms, from 20-28 moderate symptoms, and from 29-63 severe symptoms. BDI scores of study completers were examined, and the total change score on BDI was calculated for each intervention group as the mean BDI score at 0 wks subtracted from the mean BDI score at 8 wks.

    3. Number of Study Completers With Remitted Depression, Per Completers Analysis of BDI Scores at 8 Weeks [8 Weeks]

      The Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI) is a 21-item validated instrument for the self-report of depressive symptoms, with individual item scores summed to yield a total possible BDI score that ranges from 0-63. BDI scores from 0-13 suggest absent to minimal depressive symptoms, from 14-19 mild symptoms, from 20-28 moderate symptoms, and from 29-63 severe symptoms. Analysis examined BDI scores of study completers and identified in each intervention group the number of participants with an 8-wk BDI score ≤ 9, defined as remitted depression.

    Secondary Outcome Measures

    1. Total Change Scores on General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES) Among Study Completers [0 wks, 8 wks]

      The General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES) is a 10-item, self-administered, validated psychometric instrument to measure self-efficacy, defined as the belief that one's actions are responsible for successful outcomes in coping with difficult life demands. Each item is scored from 1 to 4, with a total GSES score derived by summing the individual item scores. Possible GSES scores range from 10 (no belief in one's self-efficacy) to 40 (strongest belief in one's self-efficacy). GSES scores of study completers were examined, and the total change score on GSES was calculated for each intervention group as the mean GSES score at 0 wks subtracted from the mean GSES score at 8 wks.

    2. Total Change Scores on Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) Among Study Completers [0 wks, 8 wks]

      The Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) is a 10-item, self-administered, validated psychometric instrument to measure self-esteem, defined as having an overall feeling of self-worth and self-acceptance. Each item is scored from 0 to 3, and individual item scores are summed to yield a total possible RSES ranging from 0-30. RSES scores from 0-14 suggest low self-esteem, from 15-25 normal self-esteem, and from 26-30 high self-esteem. RSES scores of study completers were examined, and the total change score on RSES was calculated for each intervention group as the mean RSES score at 0 wks subtracted from the mean RSES score at 8 wks.

    Eligibility Criteria

    Criteria

    Ages Eligible for Study:
    14 Years and Older
    Sexes Eligible for Study:
    All
    Accepts Healthy Volunteers:
    No
    Inclusion Criteria:
    • Individuals 14 years of age and older

    • English proficiency sufficient for study participation

    • Diagnosis of Axis I unipolar major depression, per screening Mini International Neuro-Psychiatric Interview (MINI)

    • Depressive symptoms of mild to moderate intensity, per score of 14-28 on screening Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI)

    • Able to attend all required study sessions

    Exclusion Criteria:
    • Cognitive Impairment, as per Folstein Mini-mental Status Exam Score < 24

    • Use of any antidepressant medication or herbal/nutraceutical mood therapy within the 2 months prior to screening, or during study period

    • Use of psychotherapy during study period

    • Use of any yoga or other mind-body practices during study period, other than study intervention

    • Per screening MINI, diagnosis of any Axis I disorder other than unipolar major depression, such as bipolar disorder, dysthymia or anxiety disorders

    • Per screening MINI, diagnosis of substance use disorders within prior 3 months

    • Per screening MINI, current suicidal ideation or past suicide attempts

    • Severe depressive symptoms, as per screening BDI score > 28

    Contacts and Locations

    Locations

    Site City State Country Postal Code
    1 University of California San Francisco San Francisco California United States 94115

    Sponsors and Collaborators

    • University of California, San Francisco
    • Mental Insight Foundation
    • Pritzker Family Foundation
    • Mount Zion Health Fund

    Investigators

    • Principal Investigator: Sudha Prathikanti, MD, University of California, San Francisco

    Study Documents (Full-Text)

    None provided.

    More Information

    Publications

    None provided.
    Responsible Party:
    University of California, San Francisco
    ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:
    NCT01210651
    Other Study ID Numbers:
    • H49362-35940-01
    First Posted:
    Sep 28, 2010
    Last Update Posted:
    Jan 11, 2017
    Last Verified:
    Nov 1, 2016
    Individual Participant Data (IPD) Sharing Statement:
    Yes
    Plan to Share IPD:
    Yes
    Keywords provided by University of California, San Francisco
    Additional relevant MeSH terms:

    Study Results

    Participant Flow

    Recruitment Details Participants were recruited via consecutive sampling of eligible individuals responding to ads approved by the Institutional Review Board of the University of California, San Francisco. Ads were posted in San Francisco libraries, shopping areas, community centers, outpatient clinics, local newspapers, online classifieds & clinical trials websites.
    Pre-assignment Detail
    Arm/Group Title Hatha Yoga Practice Group Attention Control Education Group
    Arm/Group Description Participants in this group met for 90-minute yoga practice sessions twice a weekly for a total of 8 weeks. Participants in this group met for 90-minute educational seminars on yoga history twice weekly for a total of 8 weeks.
    Period Title: Overall Study
    STARTED 20 18
    Number Attending 1st Assigned Session 18 12
    COMPLETED 15 10
    NOT COMPLETED 5 8

    Baseline Characteristics

    Arm/Group Title Hatha Yoga Practice Group Attention Control Education Group Total
    Arm/Group Description Participants in this group met for 90-minute sessions of hatha yoga practice twice a week for a total of 8 weeks. Participants in this group met for 90-minute education seminars on yoga history twice a week for a total of 8 weeks. Total of all reporting groups
    Overall Participants 20 18 38
    Age (years) [Mean (Standard Deviation) ]
    Mean (Standard Deviation) [years]
    43.1
    (15.2)
    43.8
    (14.7)
    43.4
    (14.8)
    Age, Customized (years) [Number]
    Lowest age among participants
    22
    23
    22
    Highest age among participants
    64
    72
    72
    Gender (Count of Participants)
    Female
    15
    75%
    11
    61.1%
    26
    68.4%
    Male
    5
    25%
    7
    38.9%
    12
    31.6%
    Race/Ethnicity, Customized (Count of Participants)
    European descent
    13
    65%
    9
    50%
    22
    57.9%
    Asian descent
    2
    10%
    4
    22.2%
    6
    15.8%
    Latino descent
    2
    10%
    2
    11.1%
    4
    10.5%
    African descent
    1
    5%
    2
    11.1%
    3
    7.9%
    Multi-ethnic descent
    2
    10%
    1
    5.6%
    3
    7.9%
    Region of Enrollment (participants) [Number]
    United States
    20
    100%
    18
    100%
    38
    100%
    Married (Count of Participants)
    Count of Participants [Participants]
    1
    5%
    3
    16.7%
    4
    10.5%
    Highest Education (Count of Participants)
    High school diploma
    0
    0%
    2
    11.1%
    2
    5.3%
    Two years of college
    5
    25%
    7
    38.9%
    12
    31.6%
    Four-year college degree or higher
    15
    75%
    9
    50%
    24
    63.2%
    Employment (Count of Participants)
    Employed
    8
    40%
    12
    66.7%
    20
    52.6%
    Student
    2
    10%
    2
    11.1%
    4
    10.5%
    Retired
    3
    15%
    2
    11.1%
    5
    13.2%
    Unemployed
    7
    35%
    2
    11.1%
    9
    23.7%
    Prior Yoga Exposure (Count of Participants)
    Count of Participants [Participants]
    10
    50%
    14
    77.8%
    24
    63.2%
    Participants with Prior Depressive Episodes (Count of Participants)
    Participants with 0 prior episodes
    3
    15%
    1
    5.6%
    4
    10.5%
    Participants with 1 prior episode
    12
    60%
    10
    55.6%
    22
    57.9%
    Participants with 2 prior episodes
    4
    20%
    5
    27.8%
    9
    23.7%
    Participants with 3 prior episodes
    1
    5%
    2
    11.1%
    3
    7.9%
    Participants with Prior Antidepressant Trials (Count of Participants)
    Participants with 0 prior trials
    10
    50%
    3
    16.7%
    13
    34.2%
    Participants with 1 prior trial
    5
    25%
    10
    55.6%
    15
    39.5%
    Participants with 2 prior trials
    2
    10%
    3
    16.7%
    5
    13.2%
    Participants with 3 prior trials
    3
    15%
    1
    5.6%
    4
    10.5%
    Participants with 4+ prior trials
    0
    0%
    1
    5.6%
    1
    2.6%
    Screening Score on Beck Depression Inventory-II (points on a scale) [Mean (Standard Deviation) ]
    Mean (Standard Deviation) [points on a scale]
    22.8
    (4.4)
    22.4
    (4.6)
    22.4
    (4.5)
    Screening Score on Folstein Mini Mental Status Exam (points on a scale) [Mean (Standard Deviation) ]
    Mean (Standard Deviation) [points on a scale]
    27.7
    (1.8)
    28.4
    (1.2)
    28.0
    (1.6)

    Outcome Measures

    1. Primary Outcome
    Title Intent-to-Treat Analysis of Adjusted Mean Beck Depression Inventory-II Scores Over Intervention Period
    Description The Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI) is a 21-item validated instrument for the self-report of depressive symptoms, with individual item scores summed to yield a total possible BDI score that ranges from 0-63. BDI scores from 0-13 suggest absent to minimal depressive symptoms, from 14-19 mild symptoms, from 20-28 moderate symptoms, and from 29-63 severe symptoms. Regression analysis software examined the BDI scores measured in study participants every 2 wks from intervention start at 0 wks until intervention end at 8 wks, using maximum likelihood estimations to derive an adjusted mean BDI score for each intervention group at each measurement point.
    Time Frame 0 wks, 2 wks, 4 wks, 6 wks, 8 wks

    Outcome Measure Data

    Analysis Population Description
    Intent-to-Treat population was comprised of all randomized participants in both intervention groups, regardless of adherence to protocol or premature dropout. BDI scores of any participants missing at 0 wks were imputed by carrying forward their BDI scores from screening.
    Arm/Group Title Hatha Yoga Practice Group Attention Control Education Group
    Arm/Group Description Participants in this group practiced 90-minute sessions of hatha yoga exercises twice weekly for a total of 8 weeks. Participants in this group attended 90-minute educational seminars on yoga history twice weekly for a total of 8 weeks.
    Measure Participants 20 18
    Adjusted Mean BDI Score at 0 wks
    20.98
    19.92
    Adjusted Mean BDI Score at 2 wks
    15.15
    13.06
    Adjusted Mean BDI Score at 4 wks
    14.35
    14.66
    Adjusted Mean BDI Score at 6 wks
    13.04
    12.72
    Adjusted Mean BDI Score at 8 wks
    11.51
    16.93
    Statistical Analysis 1
    Statistical Analysis Overview Comparison Group Selection Hatha Yoga Practice Group, Attention Control Education Group
    Comments A random-effects, generalized least squares (GLS) regression model for depression severity was used to analyze participant BDI scores measured just before 1st assigned session at 0 wks, and just after assigned sessions at 2 wks, 4 wks, 6 wks and 8 wks. BDI Scores were modeled as correlated within participants but independent between participants. The GLS regression model tested the null hypothesis that no significant effects on BDI scores would be found by intervention and intervention-by-time.
    Type of Statistical Test Superiority or Other
    Comments
    Statistical Test of Hypothesis p-Value 0.034
    Comments Analysis performed via Stata v14.1. Alpha was 2-tailed. P-value was calculated, with p-value < 0.05 required a priori to reject the null hypothesis.
    Method Regression, Generalized Least Squares
    Comments
    2. Primary Outcome
    Title Total Change Scores on Beck Depression Inventory-II Among Study Completers
    Description The Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI) is a 21-item validated instrument for the self-report of depressive symptoms, with individual item scores summed to yield a total possible BDI score that ranges from 0-63. BDI scores from 0-13 suggest absent to minimal depressive symptoms, from 14-19 mild symptoms, from 20-28 moderate symptoms, and from 29-63 severe symptoms. BDI scores of study completers were examined, and the total change score on BDI was calculated for each intervention group as the mean BDI score at 0 wks subtracted from the mean BDI score at 8 wks.
    Time Frame 0 wks and 8 wks

    Outcome Measure Data

    Analysis Population Description
    Population of study completers was comprised of participants in both intervention groups who provided study measures at intervention start at 0 wks and at intervention end at 8 wks.
    Arm/Group Title Hatha Yoga Practice Group Attention Control Education Group
    Arm/Group Description Participants in this group met for 90-minute sessions of hatha yoga practice twice a week for a total of 8 weeks. Participants in this group attended 90-minute educational seminars on yoga history twice weekly for a total of 8 weeks.
    Measure Participants 15 10
    Mean BDI Score at 0 wks
    20.47
    (6.00)
    18.00
    (6.43)
    Mean BDI Score at 8 wks
    11.00
    (10.01)
    16.30
    (7.63)
    Total Change Score on BDI
    -9.47
    (8.85)
    -1.70
    (6.67)
    Statistical Analysis 1
    Statistical Analysis Overview Comparison Group Selection Hatha Yoga Practice Group, Attention Control Education Group
    Comments Statistical analysis examined Total Change Scores on BDI, using two sample t-test to evaluate the null hypothesis that the Total Change Score on BDI for each intervention group would be statistically comparable.
    Type of Statistical Test Superiority or Other
    Comments
    Statistical Test of Hypothesis p-Value 0.02
    Comments Analysis performed via Stata v14.1, with P-value calculated using a t-distribution and assuming unequal variances in the two samples. Alpha was two-tailed. P-value < 0.05 was required a priori to reject the null hypothesis.
    Method t-test, 2 sided
    Comments
    3. Primary Outcome
    Title Number of Study Completers With Remitted Depression, Per Completers Analysis of BDI Scores at 8 Weeks
    Description The Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI) is a 21-item validated instrument for the self-report of depressive symptoms, with individual item scores summed to yield a total possible BDI score that ranges from 0-63. BDI scores from 0-13 suggest absent to minimal depressive symptoms, from 14-19 mild symptoms, from 20-28 moderate symptoms, and from 29-63 severe symptoms. Analysis examined BDI scores of study completers and identified in each intervention group the number of participants with an 8-wk BDI score ≤ 9, defined as remitted depression.
    Time Frame 8 Weeks

    Outcome Measure Data

    Analysis Population Description
    Population of study completers with remitted depression was comprised of participants in both intervention groups who provided study measures at 0 wks and 8 wks, and achieved an 8-wk BDI score ≤ 9.
    Arm/Group Title Hatha Yoga Practice Group Attention Control Education Group
    Arm/Group Description Participants in this group met for 90-minute sessions of hatha yoga practice twice a week for a total of 8 weeks. Participants in this group met for 90-minute educational seminars on yoga history twice a week for a total of 8 weeks.
    Measure Participants 15 10
    Number of Study Completers with 8-wk BDI score ≤ 9
    9
    45%
    1
    5.6%
    Number of Study Completers with 8-wk BDI score > 9
    6
    30%
    9
    50%
    Statistical Analysis 1
    Statistical Analysis Overview Comparison Group Selection Hatha Yoga Practice Group, Attention Control Education Group
    Comments Fisher's Exact test evaluated null hypothesis that the proportion of study completers with remitted depression would be statistically comparable in the 2 intervention groups.
    Type of Statistical Test Superiority or Other
    Comments
    Statistical Test of Hypothesis p-Value 0.018
    Comments Analysis performed via Stata v14.1. Alpha was 2-tailed. P-value was calculated, with a p-value < 0.05 required a priori to reject the null hypothesis.
    Method Fisher Exact
    Comments
    4. Secondary Outcome
    Title Total Change Scores on General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES) Among Study Completers
    Description The General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES) is a 10-item, self-administered, validated psychometric instrument to measure self-efficacy, defined as the belief that one's actions are responsible for successful outcomes in coping with difficult life demands. Each item is scored from 1 to 4, with a total GSES score derived by summing the individual item scores. Possible GSES scores range from 10 (no belief in one's self-efficacy) to 40 (strongest belief in one's self-efficacy). GSES scores of study completers were examined, and the total change score on GSES was calculated for each intervention group as the mean GSES score at 0 wks subtracted from the mean GSES score at 8 wks.
    Time Frame 0 wks, 8 wks

    Outcome Measure Data

    Analysis Population Description
    Population of study completers was comprised of participants in both intervention groups who provided study measures at intervention start at 0 wks and at intervention finish at 8 wks.
    Arm/Group Title Hatha Yoga Practice Group Attention Control Education Group
    Arm/Group Description Participants in this group met for 90-minute sessions of hatha yoga practice twice a week for a total of 8 weeks. Participants in this group met for 90-minute educational seminars on yoga history twice a week for a total of 8 weeks.
    Measure Participants 15 10
    Mean GSES Score at 0 wks
    26.87
    (3.09)
    28.50
    (4.33)
    Mean GSES Score at 8 wks
    29.00
    (3.89)
    30.00
    (2.67)
    Total Change Score on GSES
    2.13
    (2.07)
    1.50
    (2.37)
    Statistical Analysis 1
    Statistical Analysis Overview Comparison Group Selection Hatha Yoga Practice Group, Attention Control Education Group
    Comments Statistical analysis examined Total Change Scores on GSES, using an independent samples t-test to evaluate null hypothesis that Total Change Score on GSES for each intervention group would be statistically comparable.
    Type of Statistical Test Superiority or Other
    Comments
    Statistical Test of Hypothesis p-Value 0.50
    Comments Analysis performed via Stata v14.1, with P-value calculated using a t-distribution and assuming unequal variances in the two samples. Alpha was two-tailed. P-value < 0.05 was required a priori to reject the null hypothesis.
    Method t-test, 2 sided
    Comments
    5. Secondary Outcome
    Title Total Change Scores on Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) Among Study Completers
    Description The Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) is a 10-item, self-administered, validated psychometric instrument to measure self-esteem, defined as having an overall feeling of self-worth and self-acceptance. Each item is scored from 0 to 3, and individual item scores are summed to yield a total possible RSES ranging from 0-30. RSES scores from 0-14 suggest low self-esteem, from 15-25 normal self-esteem, and from 26-30 high self-esteem. RSES scores of study completers were examined, and the total change score on RSES was calculated for each intervention group as the mean RSES score at 0 wks subtracted from the mean RSES score at 8 wks.
    Time Frame 0 wks, 8 wks

    Outcome Measure Data

    Analysis Population Description
    Population of study completers was comprised of participants in both intervention groups who provided study measures at intervention start at 0 wks and at intervention finish at 8 wks.
    Arm/Group Title Yoga Practice Group Attention Control Group
    Arm/Group Description Participants in this group met for 90-minute sessions of hatha yoga practice twice a week for a total of 8 weeks. Participants in this group met for 90-minute educational seminars on yoga history twice a week for a total of 8 weeks.
    Measure Participants 15 10
    Mean RSES Score at 0 wks
    14.6
    (3.48)
    16.0
    (3.77)
    Mean RSES Score at 8 wks
    17.47
    (3.87)
    16.2
    (3.88)
    Total Change Score on RSES
    2.87
    (3.42)
    0.20
    (3.01)
    Statistical Analysis 1
    Statistical Analysis Overview Comparison Group Selection Hatha Yoga Practice Group, Attention Control Education Group
    Comments Statistical analysis examined Total Change Scores on RSES, using an independent samples t-test to evaluate null hypothesis that Total Change Score on RSES for each intervention group would be statistically comparable.
    Type of Statistical Test Superiority or Other
    Comments
    Statistical Test of Hypothesis p-Value 0.053
    Comments Analysis performed via Stata v14.1, with P-value calculated using a t-distribution and assuming unequal variances in the two samples. Alpha was two-tailed. P-value < 0.05 was required a priori to reject the null hypothesis.
    Method t-test, 2 sided
    Comments

    Adverse Events

    Time Frame Adverse event data were collected continuously over the 8 month period from recruitment to completion of all interventions (May 2010 through Jan 2011).
    Adverse Event Reporting Description
    Arm/Group Title Yoga Practice Group Attention Control Group
    Arm/Group Description Participants in this group met for 90-minute sessions of hatha yoga practice twice a week for a total of 8 weeks. week for a total of 8 weeks. Participants in this group met for 90-minute education seminars on yoga history and philosophy twice a week for a total of 8 weeks.
    All Cause Mortality
    Yoga Practice Group Attention Control Group
    Affected / at Risk (%) # Events Affected / at Risk (%) # Events
    Total / (NaN) / (NaN)
    Serious Adverse Events
    Yoga Practice Group Attention Control Group
    Affected / at Risk (%) # Events Affected / at Risk (%) # Events
    Total 0/18 (0%) 0/12 (0%)
    Other (Not Including Serious) Adverse Events
    Yoga Practice Group Attention Control Group
    Affected / at Risk (%) # Events Affected / at Risk (%) # Events
    Total 5/18 (27.8%) 0/12 (0%)
    Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders
    Musculoskeletal soreness or discomfort 5/18 (27.8%) 10 0/12 (0%) 0

    Limitations/Caveats

    Small sample size; not possible to blind participants to intervention; sub-optimal adherence/completion rates, especially in attention control group; however, adherence/completion rates comparable to many exercise-based interventions for depression.

    More Information

    Certain Agreements

    Principal Investigators are NOT employed by the organization sponsoring the study.

    There is NOT an agreement between Principal Investigators and the Sponsor (or its agents) that restricts the PI's rights to discuss or publish trial results after the trial is completed.

    Results Point of Contact

    Name/Title Sudha Prathikanti, MD
    Organization UCSF
    Phone 415-516-3867
    Email sudha.prathikanti@gmail.com
    Responsible Party:
    University of California, San Francisco
    ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:
    NCT01210651
    Other Study ID Numbers:
    • H49362-35940-01
    First Posted:
    Sep 28, 2010
    Last Update Posted:
    Jan 11, 2017
    Last Verified:
    Nov 1, 2016