Immediate Effect of Uddiyana Bandha on Heart Rate Variability in Patients with Hypertension: A Randomised Controlled Study

BACKGROUND: Hypertension, a prevalent cardiovascular condition, is linked to autonomic nervous system dysregulation, often evidenced by reduced heart rate variability (HRV). Yoga, particularly Uddiyana Bandha, may influence autonomic control and improve HRV, thus offering potential benefits for hypertension management. PURPOSE: This study intended to assess the impact of the regular use of Uddiyana Bandha practice on HRV among hypertensive patients. METHODS: This randomised controlled study included 60 hypertensive patients aged between 40 and 60. Participants were randomised into an intervention group practicing Uddiyana Bandha (n = 30) and a control group with no intervention (n = 30). The outcome measures included time and frequency domain HRV variables, specifically the standard deviation of NN intervals (SDNN), the square root of the mean squared differences of successive NN intervals (RMSSD), high-frequency (HF) and low-frequency (LF) components in normalised units (n.u), and the LF/HF ratio. These were assessed both before and immediately after the intervention. The intervention group performed three rounds of Uddiyana Bandha under supervision, while the control group rested quietly for an equivalent duration. RESULTS: The Uddiyana Bandha group demonstrated significant (p < .05) improvements in HRV parameters post-intervention compared to the control group. Mean RR interval, SDNN and RMSSD increased immediately after Uddiyana Bandha practice. The HF component (n.u) increased, while the LF component (n.u) and LF/HF ratio decreased (p < .05), indicating enhanced parasympathetic activity. No significant changes were observed in the control group. CONCLUSION: Uddiyana Bandha's practice immediately has notable effects on HRV in hypertensive patients, showing better autonomic balance and cardiovascular performance. These results suggest Uddiyana Bandha as a possible non-pharmacological strategy for hypertension management. Future studies with larger sample sizes and longer durations are needed to support these results and explore long-term effects.