Effect of a structured yoga intervention on thyroid function and symptom profile in a woman with primary hypothyroidism: A case report

Abstract

Hypothyroidism is a prevalent endocrine disorder associated with metabolic and multi-system disturbances. Although levothyroxine remains the standard treatment, many patients continue to experience residual symptoms, highlighting the need for an integrative therapeutic approach like Yoga. The present case is about a 42-year-old woman with primary hypothyroidism presented with unexplained weight gain, irregular menstruation, fatigue, and disturbed sleep. Baseline thyroid function tests revealed an elevated thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level, along with reduced triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) levels. Along with continued conventional medical management, the patient participated in a structured yoga intervention for 3 months. Following the intervention, thyroid function tests showed improvement, with a reduction in TSH and increases in T3 and T4. The patient also reported subjective improvements in energy levels, sleep quality, and menstrual regularity. Adherence to the yoga program was good, and no adverse events were reported. This case report suggests that a structured yoga program is a safe and effective approach, along with conventional medical therapy in the management of primary hypothyroidism, contributing to both biochemical improvement and symptomatic relief.