We’re frequently asked what activities are safe and effective for relieving back pain. One, in particular, is yoga. At Premier Chiropractic Center, serving Bessemer, AL, and the surrounding area, we’d like to shed some light on this topic and help you decide if yoga could be an option for you.
General Information
Yoga is a broad term that describes various practices that focus on mental and physical well-being. Certain yoga is more fast paced, like Vinyasa. On the other hand, Hatha yoga is slower paced and an excellent option for beginners.
One aspect remains static with all forms of yoga, though — you center the activity on your breathing and stretching your body to the best of your ability.
Yoga and Back Pain
Your back consists of several groups of muscles that work together to support your spine and allow for some movement. For instance, you have the multifidus muscles that support your vertebrae. By working the muscles and other soft tissue, you can enhance that support, and in return, decrease your pain.
Yoga can also stretch the muscles and soft tissue in the back in general. Specifically, yoga poses stretch the soft tissue in your back and make them more resistant to injury.
Additionally, when you stretch and strengthen your back muscles, you can improve your posture. In return, you put less stress on your lower back.
Yoga can reduce stress, and anxiety and stress have the power to worsen the pain. Therefore, as you perform yoga, you may decrease your stress level and counteract at least some of its effects on your pain.
Yoga may combat inflammation and alter your perception of pain as well.
What Research Says
Studies show that yoga may help those with fibromyalgia, arthritis, and lower back pain, as noted by Harvard Medical School.
One study, in particular, showed an increase in mobility when paired with standard medical care. Another study indicated a reduction in pain relief that was comparable to exercise therapy.
Considerations
Firstly, while yoga can decrease back pain in some, it can increase pain in others. The stretches may cause microtears in the soft tissue. And if someone overstretches or performs the practice too frequently or too long, it can lead to an injury.
For people with certain medical conditions, yoga might not be a solution. You may find that it causes pain rather than helps it. For this reason, you should consult with our chiropractor who’ll provide you with a comprehensive examination and let you know if yoga is safe for you.
Some individuals may only be able to participate in the slower yoga styles.
It’s important to know that you can customize yoga to your needs. Therefore, if you have a reduction in mobility in your legs, you can work them less intensely or at a slower-than-normal pace.
Since exercise therapy also stretches your problematic area, you may need to schedule your yoga sessions on days you’re not visiting the chiropractor. You don’t want to overwork the area and risk further injuring it.
Before you start any stretches, discuss with your chiropractor which ones are safe for you based on your condition. Our Bessemer, AL, chiropractor can not only inform you of what’s safe but can educate you on ways to modify the poses based on your back and other musculoskeletal problems. Moreover, our practitioner can inform you of which poses are most beneficial to back pain.
Book an appointment with our chiropractor today to discuss yoga and other natural ways to relieve your pain by calling 205-519-4024. You may also schedule your visit online.
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