Understanding the disease is the first thing that lets you know its remedial measures. Thus, first of all, it is important to know that Spondylitis is an inflammation of the vertebra. It is a form of spondylopathy and in many cases spondylitis involves one or more vertebral joints as well, which itself is called spondylarthritis.
Now coming back to the question as to whether Yoga can cure Spondylitis or not, the answer is yes. Given some time with appropriate yoga poses and proper way of sitting and working, it can cure the disease which is generally linked with a back pain.
Although, there are several kinds of Spondylitis, the most common ones are the Cervical and Ankylosing Spondylitis. Cervical spondylitis today is increasingly frequent in the younger age group from 35 to 45 years of age. Cervical spondylosis is caused due to abrasion and attrition of spine desk. The most important characteristic feature of cervical spondylosis is chronic pain.
Ankylosing spondylitis on the other hand is an inflammatory condition that can cause the ligaments, joint capsule, and tendons that attach to the spine to swell (enthesis), which over time can lead to bone formation and possibly fusing of the vertebrae.
Yoga For Spondylitis
Since all patients with cervical spondylitis have stiff neck and trapezius muscles and are unable to stretch the neck backward, spinal extension (stretching the spine backward) relieves the problem, though the movement might initially cause vertebro-basilar insufficiency in some cases. Vertebro-basilar insufficiency is prevented because of the resultant elasticity of the cervical muscles and vertebral arteries. Also, patients with cervical spondylitis cannot stretch the dorsal spine. However, by regularly practising back bends, this disorder can be averted.
There are several yoga poses that can be practiced to cure the cervical spondylitis. Yoga sequences like Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation), Matsyasana (Fish Pose), Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose), Makarasana (Crocodile Pose), Bal-Shayanasana (Infant’s Pose), Ardha Naukasana (Half Boat Pose), Ardha Salbhaasana (Half Locust Pose), Shanshank-Bhujangasana (Striking Cobra Pose), Kohni Chalana (Elbow Rotations), and Marjariasana (Cat Pose) can be practiced for a certain period of time without stressing your body much.
On the other hand, if you are seeking yoga poses for Ankylosing Spondylitis, you can try out various yoga poses. If you’ve not done yoga before, pick a class. Restorative yoga poses like Child’s Pose or Corpse Pose are the more gentle versions, while vinyasa and flow are more athletically focused. Bikram or “hot” yoga is not typically recommended for first-timers. If you have questions about engaging in yoga as part of your Ankylosing Spondylitis medical treatment plan, speak to a doctor or physical therapist who can offer the guidance you need to proceed properly.
It should be noted that practicing yoga won’t offer instant relief but it will take some time. Thus, consistency has to be maintained.
