For central stenosis, backbends can close off the spinal canal and must be approached with caution, backing off if symptoms are reproduced. Forward bends open the canal diameter and will help to reduce symptoms. For lateral stenosis, side bending and twisting away from the painful side will open up the spaces between the vertebrae to reduce pressure on the nerve roots and alleviate symptoms. For both types of stenosis, practice inversions to reduce inflammation and use poses that emphasize good posture and lengthen the spine.
Click on an image or posture name for detailed instructions, contraindications and modifications.
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5 Comments
I have spinal stenosis. I am unsure if it is central or lateral. Forward bends cause an increase in the pain I experience in my buttocks and upper thighs. Is there anything I can do to prevent that?
1
June 06, 2009
Sounds like it may be lateral. I would definitely recommend not doing forward bending poses, although you may be able to do them with a flat back and not cause an increase in pain if you are very careful.
2
June 08, 2009
Thanks, Timothy. I suspected as much. I will share this with my yoga instructor.
3
June 08, 2009
i have central canal stenosis, which yoga poses are right for me
4
March 30, 2010
I have foraminal stenosis at right side due to lateral-posterior disk herniation. Which yoga poses are right for me?
5
March 31, 2012
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