The Efficacy of Deep Belly Breathing (Adhama Pranayama) on Chronic Low Back Pain (CLBP): An Analytical Review

Abstract

Chronic Low Back Pain (CLBP) is a pervasive global health issue contributing to significant disability and economic burden. Given the limitations and side effects of conventional pharmacological treatments, mind-body interventions like Adhama Pranayama (deep diaphragmatic breathing) are gaining clinical interest. Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is defined by the World Health Organization as the broad set of health-care practices that are not part of that country's own tradition and are not integrated into the dominant health-care system.[¹] This study evaluates the efficacy of an 8-week deep belly breathing intervention combined with Standard Physical Therapy (SPT) versus SPT alone in managing CLBP. Analyzing the biomechanical role of the diaphragm in core stabilization and its neurological function in autonomic regulation, the intervention demonstrated a significant reduction in subjective pain, enhanced lumbar mobility, and improved autonomic balance. Pranayama is a Sanskrit word formed by the conjunction of two words, namely “prana” meaning breath of life or vital energy and “ayama” meaning expansion / regulation / control [²] Adhama Pranayama serves as a safe, cost-effective, and empowering self-management tool, addressing both the physical and psychological dimensions of CLBP.