Scoliosis is abnormal twisting and curvature of spine. It is typically visible by curvature of spine, one shoulder or hip being more prominent with other and difference in leg lengths. In adults with scoliosis, back pain is quite common. Most of the times scoliosis causes are unknown, sometimes it could be because of certain medical conditions like muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy or Marfan syndrome.
In very young children, scoliosis usually improves with age. In older children, sometimes back brace or surgery is used to correct curvature of spine. In adults exercises and non surgical treatments are tried first and surgery is the last resort.
Yoga can be helpful in benefiting patients with scoliosis. By practice of Yoga, curved spine is aimed to restore the lost balance. Let us look at few yoga poses which can be helpful in this condition. One should work with a yoga therapist so that correct muscles are contracted during the exercise. Wrong exercise may worsen the condition.
Here Are The 5 Yoga Poses For Scoliosis:
1. Downward Facing Dog
Also known as Adhomukha Svanasana. Put your hands and knees on the floor. Exhaling push your hips towards the ceiling forming a ‘”V” shape. Hands are open and thumbs and fingers press down on floor. Keep the spine straight and relaxed. Patient with scoliosis can practice this yoga with hand on wall and trunk at 90 degrees to the floor. Once in position, move feet to one side, dropping one hand little lower so that the spine evens out. As scoliosis is asymmetrical problem, asymmetry is needed to treat it. [1]
2. Extended Triangle Pose
Also known as Uuhita trikonasana. In case of patient with right thoracic scoliosis, done to left, this posture contracts upper side of the spine, right side of spine to elongate the spine and press the lateral flexion of scoliosis.[2]
3. Revolved Triangle Pose
Also known as parivrtta trikonasana. It is an interesting variation of triangle pose, helpful in this condition. In case of patient with right thoracic scoliosis,done to the right this pose will help in derotating the spine as well as contracting against lateral flexion.[3]
4. Side Plank Pose
Also called as Vasisthasana. This pose was found very useful in normalizing scoliotic curves in Dr. Fishman’s study. Practice needs to be done only on one side, the convex side to normalize the curve. In case of lumber or thoracic scoliosis, practice with traditional side plank. For practice, lie against the side indicated for you. with back against a wall and leg stacked on each other.[4] Press your hand on floor and lift your trunk up by extending the arm. Arm should be in 90 degree angle to torso when the pose is achieved. Lift hips so that spine and pelvis are in one line. Lift rib cage towards the sky, shortening the torso. Hold as long as possible.Repeat daily for six months for best results.
5. Triangle Pose
In case of right thoracic curve, place a folding chair past few inches from your left foot. Reach out and place your left hand at back of the chair. Extend the torso away from hips and lengthen the side waist. Bring hand to right ribs and press them down so they drop towards the spine. Bring right hand to your waist and breathe. Reach your right hand up towards the ceiling with palms facing forward.[5]
Yoga done in proper manner can help go a long way in spine returning to normal position.
Caution: Please use Home Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.