An Exploration of Yoga in Occupational Therapy Practice for Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

The purpose of this exploratory qualitative study was to provide insight on the use of yoga in occupational therapy (OT) for people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). This study aimed to answer how and why OT practitioners (OTPs) integrate yoga into clinical practice for PwMS. Eight OTPs, half of whom have also completed yoga teacher training, participated in a semi-structured telephone interview. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, inductively open-coded, and analyzed using thematic data analysis. Themes that emerged were: (a) OT and yoga are a natural fit; (b) improved performance and participation; (c) leveraging personal ties to yoga; and (d) influenced by client factors and clinical environment. The qualitative data provide valuable information about OTPs’ justification for, and unique application of, yoga in clinical practice for PwMS. Future researchers should further explore the use of yoga for OT-related outcomes and the experience of PwMS.