Optimization and Multi-Site Feasibility of Yoga for Chronic Pain in People in YOGAMAT-II - Phase I

In Phase 1, we will enroll 10 participants at each recruitment site (n=20). The purpose of Phase 1 (MOST Preparation Phase) is to allow us to establish and refine procedures at these new sites and document aspects of feasibility, including our ability to a) recruit participants; b) train yoga teachers to fidelity; c) randomize participants to intervention components and correctly administer these components; d) run classes; and e) collect follow-up assessments. Enrollment period for this phase will last approximately 4 months.

Inclusion criteria

• Enrolled in methadone maintenance (MMT) or buprenorphine/naloxone (BUP) treatment for > 3 months
• Plan to continue treatment for next 6 months
• Chronic pain, defined as pain for at least half the days over the previous three months, a mean score of 4 or higher on the Brief Pain Interference Scale (BPI; with reference to chronic pain), and pain severity of 4 or higher on a Visual Analog Scale (0-10) indicating "worst pain in the last week." Pain severity score will also refer to the areas of their body in which they have chronic pain.
• Aged > 18
• Proficiency in English sufficient to engage in informed consent in English, understand classes taught in English, and read short sentences
• Available at least one of the times study classes are offered.

Exclusion criteria

• Currently taking yoga classes or practicing yoga at home once per week or more often.
• Medical conditions that would make participation in yoga unsafe or not possible, including active malignancy treatment, fracture, recent joint surgery, use of assistive ambulatory devices other than a cane. . (In cases where this is unclear, site PI will make final determination based on available evidence.)
• Severe or progressive neurologic deficits. (In cases where this is unclear, site PI will make final determination based on available evidence.)
• Other severe disabling chronic medical and/or psychiatric comorbidities deemed by the site PI on a case-by-case basis to prevent safe or adequate participation in the study (e.g., cognitive impairment that prevents a participant from understanding assessments; history of disruptive behavior in medical settings; severe disabling heart failure or lung disease)
• Surgery requiring overnight hospitalization planned in the next 3 months
• Pregnancy
• Plan to move out of the area within 6 months.
• Homeless, defined as any time in the past month sleeping in a shelter or on the street.