Vol. 2, Issue 2, Part A (2025)

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by persistent inflammation, joint pain, and systemic immune dysregulation. This study evaluated the effect of a 12-week Pranayama intervention on inflammatory markers and clinical parameters in patients with RA. A total of 20 patients from Sikar, Rajasthan, participated in a structured program incorporating Anuloma-Viloma, Bhramari, and Ujjayi breathing techniques for 30 minutes daily. Pre- and post-intervention values of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and Disease Activity Score (DAS28) were analyzed. Results showed a significant reduction in hs-CRP (p=0.03), IL-6 (p=0.01), and ESR (p=0.02), accompanied by improvement in HRV parameters and perceived pain scores. The findings suggest that Pranayama can serve as an effective adjunct therapy to conventional pharmacological management in RA by modulating systemic inflammation and enhancing autonomic balance.