Benefits of Yoga for Scoliosis
In the strictest sense of the word, scoliosis is defined as an abnormal curvature of the spine. However, for persons who actually suffer from the condition, there is much more to it than just a curved spine. Scoliosis patients experience a variety of symptoms, including headaches, shortness of breath and back pain; chronic fatigue, digestive issues and mood swings. The list of symptoms goes on and on…
Some patients opt for corrective surgery to fix the issue, though, in some cases, the condition is not severe enough to warrant surgery. Others opt to wear corrective equipment recommended by doctors to reduce the pain caused by the condition.
One alternative method of easing the pain and discomfort of this condition is yoga. This form of exercise is widely used for muscle pains and relaxation. Since scoliosis causes the body to take an asymmetrical shape, this results in some muscles being overworked and others being underutilized.
So how does yoga help?
Yoga is known for its ability to strengthen muscles that are not being used regularly. Conversely, it is also well known for its ability to stretch overworked muscles, thus reducing existing tension. With these functions, yoga has the ability to restore some semblance of balance in the patient’s body alignment.
In addition to that, there are some special yoga poses geared towards scoliosis patients. These exercises aim to stretch the spine, which results in less pressure on the vertebrae and surrounding bones and tissues.
What are some of the benefits?
Yoga provides a few noteworthy benefits for scoliosis patients. These include:
- Lengthens the Spine
Special yoga poses for scoliosis focus on elongating the spine. This helps to bring the spine back to the center of the body, and is a major step to reducing pain.
- Builds Muscle Strength
The imbalances that occur from scoliosis cause some muscles to be over- utilized and others to be under- utilized. Yoga poses for scoliosis focus on strengthening those muscles that are not being properly used; they also focus on stretching and relieving tension in those muscles being overused.
- De- rotation
Scoliosis causes some abnormal rotation in the body. In many yoga poses, it is possible to reverse this condition, especially when doing twist exercises. This results in improved alignment and overall balance.
- Develops Breath Awareness
Scoliosis patients generally suffer from shortness of breath. The unusual position of the body tends to make breathing deeply more difficult and sometimes painful. Yoga exercises focus on deepening breathing. This results in relaxation. With consistent practice, patients will become more aware of their breathing and will learn to breathe through the usual discomfort to gain the benefits.
Overall, the benefits of yoga are widely recognized. Anyone can benefit from adding yoga in their daily routines. Persons living with scoliosis can gain a number of benefits from practicing yoga. From strengthening the spine to improving breathing techniques, special yoga poses for scoliosis have the ability to change a patient’s life.