Yoga for Scoliosis

The word "scoliosis" comes from the Greek word ‘skol’ that means twists and turns.



In scoliosis, the spine forms an S curve – or reversed S – from side to side down the back. At the same time, the back of the spine rotates toward the concave side of the S, twisting the rib cage.



This the sides of the back uneven

The ribs compress on the concave side of the spine and spread apart on the convex side especially when this curvature occurs in the mid-back region,. On the concave side, the attached ribs are pushed sideways and forward.



On the convex side, they collapse toward the spine and move back. Thus the characteristic rotation of the rib cage is formed. The ribs on the convex side often jut out posteriorly. Over this protrusion there frequently develops a tense, painful mass of muscle tissue.

Yoga Poses for Scoliosis

When the body is in balance and aligned with gravity, a Yoga pose will be almost effortless. Before practising Yoga, your body will not really know what "balanced" feels like. Through Yoga, you will learn that even if you have a curved spine you can still be balanced and graceful.

There are six major areas of the body to focus on while doing the yoga poses for scoliosis. These areas are very important in creating proper alignment, decreasing pain. and minimizing further curvature of the spine.

• Feet and Legs.
  
• Spine
  
• Psoas (Major and Minor).
  
• Scapula
  
• Abdominal Muscles
  
• Breath. Awareness

Hence the following are recommended to correct the situation:

Asanas for Scoliosis

• Tadasana
  
• Vrikshasana
  
• Trikonasana
  
• Matsyasana Alternative (Instead of holding your toes and tilting your head back, here you stretch your hands as far above your head as possible)
  
• Sarvangasana
  
• Halasana
  
• Naukasana

Breathing Exercises for Scoliosis

• Gentle Kapalabhatti
  
• Anuloma-Viloma
  
• Ujjayi