Frozen Shoulder and Yoga: How To Work With It?
- Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition where the shoulder joint becomes stiff and painful, making it difficult to move the arm. Yoga can be a helpful tool in managing frozen shoulder, but it’s important to approach the practice with care and sensitivity to avoid exacerbating the condition. Here are some tips for working with frozen shoulder in yoga:
- Start with gentle movements: Begin with gentle movements and stretches that focus on opening up the chest and shoulders. Poses like seated forward fold with arms extended, cow face arms, eagle arms, and shoulder rolls can help release tension and increase range of motion.
- Use props for support: Props like blocks, straps, and blankets can be helpful in supporting the body and allowing for deeper stretches without overexertion. For example, using a strap to hold onto the foot in a standing forward bend can help gently stretch the shoulders without strain.
- Avoid aggressive or extreme movements: Avoid poses that involve intense shoulder rotations or weight-bearing on the affected shoulder. Poses like downward facing dog, plank, and chaturanga may exacerbate the condition and should be avoided.
- Practice regularly: Regular practice can help maintain mobility and prevent further stiffness or adhesions in the shoulder joint. However, be sure to listen to your body and take breaks as needed.
- Work with a knowledgeable teacher: A knowledgeable yoga teacher can help guide you through a safe and effective practice that supports your individual needs and limitations. Be sure to communicate openly with your teacher about your condition and any limitations or discomfort you may experience during practice.
- It’s important to note that yoga should be used in conjunction with other treatments recommended by a medical professional for managing frozen shoulder. If you experience persistent pain or stiffness, it’s important to seek medical attention to rule out underlying conditions or complications.