Yoga is very helpful in alleviating pain, especially for people suffering with Sciatica, but it is helpful to know the cause of the problem. Very often the cause of Sciatica is a herniated disc, but this is just one of many conditions, which can cause Sciatica. Spinal stenosis, piriformis syndrome, nerve root compression, tumors, and bone spurs can also be another cause.
To visualize the problem is much better, because it takes the mystery out of it. Therefore, you should visit a Chiropractic, or Orthopedic doctor, before visiting a Yoga class. This will enable you to understand what your goals are. In many cases, the goal of a competent Yoga therapist, or Yoga teacher, is to reduce or eliminate pain.
Yoga should not be seen as a cure, but a method to make pain manageable. In some cases, Yoga sessions relieve pain completely, but that is a lot to expect, and the change may be quite gradual.
You should also understand cautions before you get started. Find a competent Yoga teacher, or Yoga therapist, with a "track record" of success in therapy. Pain is your loudest teacher, so do not listen to anyone who tells you to push through it. You know your own pain threshold, and each of us is different.
You should use caution when performing any variation of forward bend or twist motions. This is not to say they should be avoided completely, but a skilled therapist should be able to show you your limits and find solutions to make your Yoga practice painless.
Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, has written many books on the subject of Yoga. He is a co-owner and the Director of Yoga Teacher Training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA. riyoga.com riyoga.com
He has been a certified Master Yoga Teacher since 1995. To receive a Free Yoga e-Book: "Yoga in Practice," and a Free Yoga Newsletter, please visit: yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html
? Copyright 2007 ? Paul Jerard / Aura Publications
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