Yoga and Back Pain
Many of the postures in yoga gently strengthen the muscles in the back, as well as the abdominal muscles. Back and abdominal muscles are essential for maintaining proper upright posture and movement. When these muscles are strong, back pain can be greatly reduced or avoided. Yoga also increases blood flow, allowing nutrients to flow in, toxins to flow out, and overall nourishment of the muscles and soft tissues in the lower back.
The postures below help to decrease the stress placed on the low back by both lengthening and strengthening:
http://www.yogajournal.com/poses/491 Downward Facing Dog
http://www.yogajournal.com/poses/2466 Big Toe Pose – bend knees as much as you need to – lengthens hamstrings
http://www.yogajournal.com/poses/472 Bridge Pose to open hip flexors and lengthen the front side of the body
Yoga Journal Magazine
Juli Dabiero Clark, LeftHand Chiropractic
Yoga Lover!