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Osteoarthritis is a common form of arthritis that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a degenerative joint disease that causes the cartilage in your joints to break down, resulting in pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. One popular method for dealing with osteoarthritis is through the practice of yoga. But are bone on bone osteoarthritis and yoga a good mix?
While there is no cure for osteoarthritis, there are ways to manage the symptoms and improve your quality of life. I myself have now had both of my hips replaced. And yes I do yoga.
Let’s explore this question and some yoga exercises that can help with flexibility and mobility.
Understanding Bone On Bone Osteoarthritis
Before we dive into the benefits of yoga for osteoarthritis, it’s essential to understand what bone on bone osteoarthritis is. This term refers to the advanced stage of osteoarthritis, where the cartilage in the joint has completely worn away, leaving the bones to rub against each other. This can cause severe pain and discomfort, making it challenging to perform daily activities.
Benefits of Yoga for Osteoarthritis
Yoga is a low-impact exercise that focuses on stretching, strengthening, and balance. It can help improve flexibility, mobility, and joint function, making it an ideal exercise for those with osteoarthritis. Additionally, yoga can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being, which can also benefit those with osteoarthritis.
Flexibility Exercises
Flexibility exercises are essential for those with osteoarthritis, as they help improve joint mobility and reduce stiffness. Here are some yoga poses that can help with flexibility:
Cat-Cow Pose
This pose involves moving between a rounded back (cat) and an arched back (cow) position. It helps stretch the spine and improve flexibility in the back and hips.
Child’s Pose
This pose involves sitting on your heels and bending forward, resting your forehead on the ground. It helps stretch the hips, thighs, and ankles, improving flexibility in these areas.
Mobility Exercises
Mobility exercises are crucial for those with osteoarthritis, as they help improve joint function and reduce pain. Here are some yoga poses that can help with mobility:
Warrior Pose
This pose involves standing with your feet apart and bending one knee while keeping the other leg straight. It helps strengthen the legs and improve mobility in the hips and knees.
Tree Pose
This pose involves standing on one leg and placing the sole of the other foot on the inner thigh. It helps improve balance and mobility in the hips and ankles.
Osteoarthritis Yoga Exercises
There are specific yoga exercises designed explicitly for those with osteoarthritis. These exercises focus on gentle movements and stretches that can help reduce pain and improve joint function. Some examples include:
Seated Spinal Twist
This exercise involves sitting with your legs straight and twisting your upper body to one side. It helps improve flexibility and mobility in the spine.
Supported Bridge Pose
This pose involves lying on your back with your knees bent and lifting your hips off the ground. It helps stretch the hips and improve mobility in the lower back.
Yoga can be a beneficial form of exercise for those with bone on bone osteoarthritis. However, it’s essential to consult with your doctor before starting any new exercise routine.
They can provide personalized recommendations and modifications to ensure your safety and comfort. With the right approach, yoga can help improve flexibility, mobility, and overall well-being for those with osteoarthritis.
I do offer private Gentle Flow Yoga Classes online that will help with flexibility and mobility caused by osteoarthritis. Simply email me at denise@denisesanger.com or message me through my Facebook business page here: Healthy After 50 with Denise Sanger
