| Yoga Poses for Spinal Stenosis |
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Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spaces in the spine where the spinal cord and nerve roots transverse. The narrowing of these passageways results in pressure on the spinal cord and/or nerve roots that exit the spine creating pain, numbness, tingling and weakness. The spinal passageways can be further closed off due to inflammation that arises after these tissues become irritated. Central stenosis is narrowing of the central cannal where the spinal cord travels. Lateral stenosis is the narrowing of the openings between vertebrae where the nerve roots exit the spine. 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. Please login as a Premium Member to have access to this content 4 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.
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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
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Go back to that state of pure being, where the I am" is still in its purity before it got contaminated with "this I am" or "that I am." Sri Ramana Maharshi |
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All contents copyright 2001-2012 Timothy Burgin and Yogabasics.com. All rights reserved. Om shanti peace.
Please consult your health care practitioner before starting a yoga, pranayama or other exercise program.
All contents copyright 2001-2012 Timothy Burgin and Yogabasics.com. All rights reserved. Om shanti peace.
