As we age, our bodies will face different roadblocks that may limit our activity and even cause us pain. Osteoporosis is one of the most common roadblocks for women, affecting bone density and increasing fracture risk. Fortunately, there are a lot of ways to combat osteoporosis, the best of which is yoga. Eschewing medication and drugs, yoga offers the safest way we can develop stronger bones and prevent osteoporosis. Read on to learn about the top five yoga poses for osteoporosis.
Top Five Yoga Poses for Osteoporosis
By Rebecca Bardelli, Yahoo! Contributor Network Apr 2, 12:18 pm EDT
If you suffer from osteoporosis there are several yoga poses (asanas) you can perform to alleviate your aches and pains. Yoga offers numerous benefits to the body and mind and has the ability relieve the symptoms associated with numerous health problems, including osteoporosis.
What is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a health condition that causes the bones to become thin and more susceptible to fractures. Physical discomfort is a symptom and can be very bothersome.
Women, people who smoke, and those who are thin are more likely to develop osteoporosis. Menopause and certain medications are also risk factors to developing this condition.
Taking a calcium and vitamin D supplement can aid in preventing one from developing thin bones. Medications are also available, but yoga offers a drug free remedy. If you choose to take medicine, yoga can still be performed to offer additional relief. Exercise itself can help prevent osteoporosis from occurring, so try these top five yoga poses to alleviate symptoms or prevent osteoporosis.
Big Toe Pose (Padangusthasana)
The big toe pose is beneficial to those with osteoporosis. In addition, it is therapeutic to those experiencing menopause, insomnia and headaches.
Bridge Pose (Setu Bandha Sarvangasana)
The bridge pose is helpful to those who suffer with osteoporosis, but it is also beneficial to those with asthma, blood pressure that is high and inflamed sinuses. It also lessens head and back aches.
Extended Hand-To-Big-Toe Pose (Utthita Hasta Padangustasana)
The extended hand-to-big-toe pose is an excellent asana for those with osteoporosis. This pose will add strength and muscle to both the ankles and legs while improving balance.
To hold this pose for a longer duration of time, rest your foot on the back of a cushioned chair, using a blanket or towel.
Extended Triangle Pose (Utthita Trikonasana)
The extended triangle pose is a superior asana to relieve symptoms from many conditions, including osteoporosis. This pose stretches almost every muscle group, aiding in flexibility.
Half Moon Pose (Ardha Chandrasana)
The half moon pose looks graceful when performed properly and is beneficial to those with the following:
- Osteoporosis
- Menstrual discomfort
- Tiredness
- Back pain
- Sciatica
- Upset stomach
- Gastritis
- Constipation
It is an overall excellent pose that alleviates stress while stretching and strengthening many muscle groups.
So, give yoga a try to ward off symptoms of osteoporosis. You have nothing to lose and muscle mass, flexibility and relief from pain to gain. Attempt to practice all five poses for maximum benefits, remembering to consult your healthcare provider before beginning any new exercise program.
No wonder more and more women are falling in love with yoga. Just give it a shot, and make sure no roadblock stands in your way.
