I’ve often talked about the many benefits of Yoga. In fact, I can hardly think of anyone who would not benefit from learning some Yoga techniques and incorporating them in their everyday lives and workouts. This is especially true for individuals with certain orthopedic or musculoskeletal issues.
Yoga is a low-impact, health-friendly way of life. It is no surprise to me that scientific studies have revealed that it can perk up function and/or decrease pain in individuals with the following conditions:
Arthritis: I believe relief from arthritic pain is achieved by the gentle stretching as well as the rhythmic low impact movement patterns which can enhance joint lubrication and nourishment.
Back pain: Lower back pain is terribly common in our society. Yoga helps by improving mobility and flexibility in the spine as well as in the surrounding pelvic and thigh region all of which improves low back function. It also improves core strength, something very essential for a healthy back.
Cancer: Early diagnosis can definitely help, since combining therapy with dietary add-ons has known to yield fantastic results. In addition, a disciplined lifestyle that includes detoxification techniques and herbs to recharge depleted cells can yield best results. Of course, you must make it a point to stick to optimum potency of supplements.
Carpal tunnel syndrome: A number of physiotherapists and occupational therapists have incorporated Yoga stretches into the prevention and treatment programs for individuals with this condition.
Tennis and Golfer’s elbow:Yoga positions, like Matsyasana (with clasped hands stretched above and behind the head), Sputa Vajrasana and Vrikshasana (again with hands stretched above the head) and all arm stretches can help these tendon related problems and perhaps a lot of others, too.
Stress: This is a common issue in life today and Yoga, through its stress busting methods and relaxation techniques, helps immensely in this regard, particularly through breathing relaxation and techniques.
