Yoga
Yoga focuses on thoughtful breathing and slow, prolonged, gentle stretches called poses or positions. Yoga can help decrease pain, swelling and tension. It can also help increase circulation which helps speed up the healing process. Emotional benefits of yoga include calming your mind and reducing anxiety.
Most forms of yoga are gentle and suitable for everyone regardless of your age or physical ability. The most important part of yoga is breathing, which can be practiced in any position. Simple yoga poses can even be performed in a chair.
You may need to modify yoga poses or postures based on your individual health needs.
Is it safe for me?
Many yoga poses are safe after spine surgery, but you should avoid twisting movements of the neck and back for 3 months. Yoga can usually be performed safely after joint replacement surgery, however, be sure to follow any instructions about weight bearing that your care team may have provided. . You should not do standing Yoga poses if you are at risk of falling.
Plan for it
The best way to learn yoga is to take a class or get individual instruction. A yoga instructor can teach you specific positions and how to regulate your breathing. An instructor also can teach you how to practice yoga safely, especially if you have injuries, chronic conditions, or balance or coordination problems.
If possible, find a class led by a certified instructor near you. There are also gentle yoga videos available on DVD or online that you can use in your own home.
No special equipment is needed to do yoga. If you are able to do yoga on the floor, you may want to use a yoga mat for comfort and stability. Yoga mats can be purchased online and in many health or department stores.
Practice doing it
If you’re unable to find or take a class in your community or prefer to try yoga at home, you can follow one of the Mayo Clinic gentle yoga videos available here. These videos are between 16-19 minutes long. Many patients find it helpful to do yoga with a friend or loved one.
Watch
2:13
Yoga for Pain
Yoga involves gently moving through a series of positions which you briefly hold, while paying special attention to your breathing. Learn how yoga can help with pain management.
19:47
Yoga: Gentle yoga compassion
Provides instruction and guided yoga practice with healing music. Designed to include movements to improve balance, stability, strength and flexibility. Session focus is on compassion.
15:56
Yoga: Gentle yoga gratitude
Provides instruction and guided yoga practice with healing music. Designed to include movements to improve balance, stability, strength and flexibility. Session focus is on gratitude.
Need help or have questions?
If you have questions about this resource or any medical condition, always talk to your healthcare professional.
