Yoga Poses And Exercises for Scoliosis of The Spine - Are there any good yoga poses particularly for scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a deformity of the spine, where the spine is bent laterally, usually in an S or C shape. This is normally not a serious condition, but once diagnosed, it should not be left untreated. If so, the curvature of the spine can worsen and cause spinal injury as well damage to the chest, pelvis, heart, and lungs. Scoliosis may cause back, limb, or abdominal pain and may also start to restrict breathing if the lung cavity gets distorted. In order to correct the curvature of the spine to some extent or lessen the pain from scoliosis, an alternative therapy like yoga is extremely useful.
Yoga is known to have aided a number of healing processes. This ancient discipline that found its origins in India uses ‘asanas’ or postures and ‘pranayama’ or breathing exercises to heal and rejuvenate the body.
For scoliosis specifically, the ‘Marichyasana’, or the sage twist is particularly useful. In this pose, while being seated, bend your knee, rotate your torso towards the bent knee, wrap the other arm around your knee and clasp your hands. Keep your back straight through the whole process. This is an important asana to strengthen the back as it tones the back muscles.
Another really good exercise is the ‘Salabhasana’ or the locust pose. To perform this pose, lie flat on your stomach and gently lift your head, torso, arms and legs such that your back is curved. This pose will give your spine a lateral stretch and stimulate the spinal nerves reducing any pain.
For pelvic pain resulting from scoliosis, leg pulls are a good exercise. While lying down, bend one knee and lift the other leg behind your head as far back as possible. This will work the muscles in the pelvic area and prevent them from cramping up.
For the chest and lungs, ‘Matsyasana’ or the fish pose is helpful. While lying on your back, simply arch your back and drop your head to the floor. Take deep breaths such that your chest and lung cavity are full of air. This will maintain the strength of the chest muscles and reduce occurrence of pain.
For the abdomen, Ujjayi breathing would be useful. You need to take a full breath in such that your belly, rib cage and then lungs are filled with air. This improves the flexibility of the abdominal muscles, and also helps in reducing the pressure on the back.
