The Benefit of Yoga for Scoliosis

Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature in the spine which occurs during growth, just before puberty. This condition is common in adolescents. The main cause behind the development of scoliosis is unknown and doctors are still trying to understand it better. The initial symptoms of scoliosis are mild but the pain and deformities can increase with age, resulting in disability. Even though there is no definite cause determined for scoliosis, some possibilities that can lead to this disorder are genetic conditions, cerebral palsy (nervous system disorder which affects movement, learning, and hearing), spinal injuries and birth defects.

Nutritional deficiency and an inactive lifestyle can also trigger the progression of scoliosis. Consuming a healthy and well-balanced diet rich in nutrients and performing physical movements can significantly ease out the symptoms of scoliosis. A lot of people turn to yoga while managing scoliosis. Adding physical activity like yoga to your daily routine can provide various benefits to those suffering from scoliosis.

Here are some benefits that yoga can provide to those suffering from scoliosis:

• Stretch and strengthen the muscles: Yoga involves stretching of body parts and is forced to contract because of the numerous patterns of movements. These movements require a sustained hold which helps in increasing mobility of the spine and strengthens the muscles.
• Reduce pain and stiffness: By strengthening the muscles and connective tissue that aid in keeping the spine aligned, you can experience decreased pain and proper movement of the muscles in the spine. Physical activity, such as yoga, helps in improving the overall alignment of the spine.
• Advance spinal position: Regular practising yoga can improve and strengthen the muscles and scoliotic curve of the spine. In order to get effective results, try yoga poses daily or (6 days per week) for about 6 months.

Other than this, here are some other benefits of yoga for scoliosis

• Stretch stiff areas
• Strengthen weak areas
• Make a stronger core
• Manages pain
• Improve mobility and flexibility
• Advance the spinal movements

Introducing yoga to your lifestyle

• Know your scoliosis type
• Start by conscious breathing
• Accept that your sides are different and you can feel different tension for the right and left side
• Stretch and strengthen on the right areas
• Skip the pose that are giving you extreme problems
• Take it slow and does not burden your body

Footnote

Yoga is extremely beneficial to manage scoliosis and staying consistent with yoga along with your medications can provide you effective results. Make sure to not burden your body and pace yourself to avoid any further injuries