Studies show that yoga and conventional back classes produce similar improvements in back function and reduced pain. An eight-week study showed that yoga was superior to wrist splints for reducing the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. A small study in arthritis patients showed that eight weeks of yoga training reduced knee pain and stiffness. In older people, yoga improved flexibility, balance and muscle endurance, which helps prevent life-threatening falls and improves quality of life. Yoga is an important exercise for improving muscle and joint health. (IDEA Fitness Journal, October 2009)