Yoga For Orthopedic Health

Submitted by: Lawrence Reaves

The ever-growing cost of health care may be at the heart of the growing interest in overall wellness; or perhaps our society is simply moving in a more health-conscious direction. Whatever the reason, the value of prevention is getting plenty of publicity. From daytime talk shows to websites and magazines, natural treatments and prevention programs for every condition imaginable are central to the public conversation about health. Far from an exception, it turns out orthopedic problems are among those that respond most favorably to a wellness program of diet, nutrition, and exercise. Even conventional medical doctors are beginning to acknowledge the value of alternative treatments and prevention. Moreover, medical professionals universally recommend diet and exercise to maintain health and vitality throughout middle age and into late life.

Yoga is a terrific way to improve flexibility and balance: two crucial components of orthopedic health. Yoga can speed the body s recovery process, stopping and even reversing the progress of joint problems in the shoulders, osteoporosis, arthritis, and back pain. Injuries to the rotator cuff are common and can impede every day activities such as reaching up into kitchen cabinets. Even driving can be effected.

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Certain yoga positions can bring powerful relief to individuals with this injury, and in many cases, when used in tandem with physical therapy, can eliminate the need for surgery. This is especially good news for those in late life for whom surgery is not always a viable option. The most helpful yoga position for rotator cuff injuries is the triangular forearm support, which is a kind of headstand. Newcomers to yoga can do a beginner s version of the position using a chair or wall as a support. The pose strengthens muscles around the shoulder blade and allows these muscles to compensate for the injured shoulder muscle, thus restoring range of motion almost instantaneously. Using yoga as part of a healing regimen produces, in many cases, better results than surgery or physical therapy alone, and patients are unlikely to sustain additional injuries as a result of doing yoga.

Yoga is also beneficial to those who suffer from bone loss. Yoga is gentler than jogging or speed walking, both on the joints of the hips and knees, and on the heart. There is increasing evidence to support the notion that individuals who practice yoga are far les likely to experience osteoporosis or the fractures that accompany the disease. As little as ten minutes of yoga each day can trigger bone growth and increased bone density in the hips and back. Because yoga is highly focused on balance, regular practice of yoga can result in fewer falls, which pose a serious danger to individuals with osteoporosis.

If you have healthy bones, by all means, join a yoga class. You may prefer to do yoga at home to videos, but it is best to start with an instructor whom you can observe and ask questions when necessary. If you are already experiencing bone loss, talk to your doctor about the benefits of yoga. Then speak to a yoga instructor. She will be able to help you move gently into the poses and avoid injury.

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