3 Health Problems Yoga Can Fix
Yoga Research
Did you know that despite the challenges of researching the health benefits of yoga, many good-quality studies are beginning to emerge, and the results are interesting.
L. Lipton a yogi for over 15 years, looks at the studies and explains what they mean.
Back Pain
A randomized controlled trial involving one hundred and one patients with low-back pain compared twelve weeks of yoga with conventional back exercises. Both groups were compared with patients who were given a self-help book. At the end of the trial, the yoga group showed more improvement.
The Take-Home Message. A regular practice of specific viniyoga poses has been shown to improve some symptoms of back pain. If you have been diagnosed with routine back strain, practice yoga gently and don’t attempt poses that require extreme twisting or vigorous spinal extension, as these can put a lot of strain on the spinal disks and nerve roots. Severe or constant back pain should be evaluated by your physician.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Is yoga an effective therapy for this common problem? Researchers have concluded that yoga provides a “significant short-term benefit” for people with carpal tunnel syndrome.
If you suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome, you modify the poses and hand positions as needed to carpal tunnel problems. Ask your yogi for help.
Osteoarthritis
Could yoga be a good exercise option for individuals with osteoarthritis (OA)? In another recent study, it took just eight weekly yoga treatments to show improvement in all of the people who participated. They all showed a reduction in knee pain and stiffness.
