7 reasons NOT to practice yoga for scoliosis


Originally Posted 21 March 2017

Are you suffering from scoliosis? Has somebody told you one leg is shorter than the other or you’ve got a funny curve in your back that you’re not sure about? Are you thinking about trying yoga for scoliosis? Keep reading if you want to find out if it’s for you.

Maybe there is a little hump on one side of your back, maybe you’re wearing a heel lift or maybe you’ve even been told to have surgery or you’ve had it already.

Maybe you’re not sure you’ve got scoliosis but know something is somehow off. Chances are if you’re reading this that you suspect it or you know someone else who has scoliosis who might be suffering from back pain.

Well there are lots of different approaches to handling scoliosis. Exercise, massage treatments, osteopathy, physiotherapy, acupuncture etc. and surgery in more severe cases.

What about practicing yoga? Would that be for you?

Here are 10 reasons why NOT to practice yoga for scoliosis to help you make an informed decision (warning, some sarcasm ahead!):

yoga for scoliosis

7 reasons why NOT to practice yoga for scoliosis

1. You have loads of money so can have a massage, chiropractic and osteopathy treatment every day!

 

2. You enjoy pain, muscle tension and generally feeling a little lobsided!

 

3. You are happy for things to stay as they are and your curvature to increase – think 10 years, 20, 30, 40?

 

4. You hate breathing anyway so why would you want to increase your lung capacity?!

 

5. You don’t think you need a healthy and flexible spine. (Maybe a wheelchair would sound like a good option?)

 

6. You are the type of person that prefers for other people (who don’t have to live with it) to make decisions for you. And then you just live with the consequences. Hoping for the best…

 

7. You hate inner peace, relaxation and happiness!! You are happy how you feel about your body so why would you change anything?

 

So if any of the above applies then yoga is probably not a good fit for you… if you truly want to change any of the above then this is your chance! 

One of the meanings of yoga is the union of the body, mind and spirit. Your spine will never be completely straight but yoga can help you to manage the pain and help you to feel at home in your body. I promise. Because I have experienced it myself and I know many others who have.

I tried to keep this light and enjoyable to read but I know from personal experience that scoliosis is no laughing matter. The point I’m trying to make is how badly do you want to make a change? Nobody, no doctor, no therapist will be able to “fix” you. They can temporarily help to relieve symptoms.

Surgery is another matter of course. Yes, if the surgery helps to keep you alive then it’s a no brainer. If its not life threatening then really way up the pros and cons. Try EVERYTHING else and then make your decision.

And if you decide to have surgery then yoga  will help you to prepare for it and to feel good in your body and soul afterwards.

With lots of love as this is close to my heart.

Christine

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  1. This headline grabbed me, but I’m glad it’s sarcastic! Yoga has made me feel much more even in my body, and I’m only just at the beginning of my journey.

    1. That’s great to hear! Enjoy the journey! I went for the title because I wanted to make it clear that yoga is not something that is done to you but that you do to yourself 🙂

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