There are more than 100 different forms of arthritis; the most common types include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and fibromyalgia. These conditions are generally characterized by pain, swelling, and reduced motion in the joints. 

Unfortunately, there is no cure for arthritic conditions, but there are a number of non-invasive treatments that can help you achieve lasting relief from painful symptoms. Arthritis can be an unbearable condition, leading to an inability to move, much less to exercise, interfering with a person’s desire to seek mental and physical relief.

Is Yoga An Arthritis-Safe Activity?

Absolutely! Yoga is a safe, feasible, and enjoyable way for people with both rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis to increase mobility, reduce stiffness, and improve mental and physical wellbeing. Yoga allows the body to move slowly into positions that focus on stretching specific muscles, which has been shown to ease pain and discomfort in the long-term. By focusing on breath-control and meditation, it allows you to relax the mind and body all at once. Not only does yoga soothe physical symptoms, but emotional symptoms are also relieved in the process. 

Have you ever heard of the post-yoga “zen”? To be in zen, one is relaxed and puts space between things, allowing for the body and mind to focus on one thing only. By practicing this mindset, you are increasing body awareness, reducing unwanted stress, sharpening attention and concentration, and calming the nervous system. Check out these stretches for stress management. 

Benefits of Yoga on Arthritis:

• Reduced joint pain
• Improvement of joint flexibility and function (increased mobility) 
• Lower stress and tension 
• Better night’s sleep

Beginner Poses To Try Out: 

• Child’s Pose: stretches the hips, thighs, lower back, and ankles
• Cat-Cow Pose: increases the flexibility of the neck, shoulders, and spine
• Downward Dog: strengthens the hands, wrists, lower back, hamstrings, and calves
• Staff Pose: strengthens the hip flexors, back, and abdominal muscles
• Mountain Pose: improves posture and strengthens the thighs, knees, and ankles

Other Benefits of Yoga:

• Increased muscle strength and tone
• Improved respiration, energy, and vitality
• A balanced metabolism
• Weight loss
• Improved athletic performance
• Protection from injury

By practicing yoga on a daily basis or a few times a week, you create a connection between your mind and body that allows you to see your arthritic condition in the bigger picture. In addition to these habits, seeking professional help can be beneficial to your health. If you don’t see obvious symptoms at the moment but are worried about experiencing arthritis in the future, read these tips for preventing arthritis. 

At Rejunvinix, our doctors can help you eliminate joint pain caused by your arthritis with non-surgical treatments. Specifically, our doctors have seen amazing results with Platelet-Rich-Plasma therapy (PRP) in treating arthritis. 

To learn more and/or to schedule a consultation, call us at (757) 345-2320 or go online!