Arthritis pain has been treated wrong for a long time in the past when doctors told people with stiffness to “rest the joints”. Actually, physical activities could reduce pain and improve mobility, function, quality of life, and mood for most people with a type of arthritis, as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, osteoarthritis, and fibromyalgia.
If you suffer from joint and arthritis pain it is really hard for you to do even the simplest things. Nowadays, there are numerous yoga series that can help you reduce this unsupportable pain.
Yoga is a body and mind practice that origins from an ancient philosophy in India. Just like other movement practices that are used for health purposes, different styles of yoga usually combine breathing methods, physical postures, and relaxation or meditation.
Latest studies in people with chronic arthritis pain recommend that carefully adapted yoga poses can help reduce pain and improve the ability to move and walk.
In accordance to the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), yoga is one of the six most commonly used harmonizing health practices amongst adults.
Benefits of yoga for adults with arthritis
Regular physical activities and yoga practice are one of the most important things for people with arthritis pain and some other rheumatic conditions.
Scientific studies have proven that yoga is an incredible activity that improves pain, mood, and quality of life.
However, some people with arthritis pain might have difficulties being physically active because of symptoms like stiffness and aching, so they have a lack of confidence in knowing what to do and how much to do it, as well as unclear prospects of when they will feel the actual benefits.
Both muscles strengthening activities and yoga poses are proven to work perfectly well, and both are highly recommended for everyone who suffers from arthritis pain.
What Types of Yoga Are Good for Arthritis Pain?
The Arthritis Foundation (AF) recommends these types of yoga for the arthritis patients:
- Phoenix Rising (combines therapeutic emphasis with physical poses);
- Iyengar (uses legs and other supports to provide modifications of poses for people with physical limitations);
- Anusara (focuses on image-based movements);
- Viniyoga (coordinates movements and breath), and
- Kripalu (focuses on meditation exercises)
Note: If you have any doubts, consult your doctor about what yoga poses will be best for your exact condition, and then seek an instructor who can help your condition.
Conclusion:
The main recommendations for people with arthritis pain are to stay flexible and active.
Physical activities can also aid people who suffer from arthritis to manage some other chronic diseases, as heart disease, obesity, and diabetes. There are many ways that can be really helpful for people with arthritis, like self-directed physical activity programs, or other programs available in the communities around the country. Many people can also benefit from occupational or physical therapies.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 50 million American citizens are diagnosed with arthritis. So, if you (or someone you know) suffers from arthritis pain, yoga can help relieve stiffness and pain.
Begin with the yoga practice gradually, and try to keep it nice and gentle. You should always remember to warm up before you start with the yoga poses.