Yoga Proven to Relieve Chronic Lower Back Pain

The following article was published in last week's Parade under the Get Fit Now. Article was written by Michael O'Shea.

Good news for people with aching backs: a recent study funded by the National Institutes of Health suggests that yoga may help relieve chronic lower-back pain--and the depression associated with it--better than conventional medicine.

For the study, published in the journal Spine, researchers assigned people with chronic back pain to either traditional treatment such as pain medication or twice weekly Iyengar-style yoga therapy for 24 weeks. Those in the yoga group had reduced pain and greater function, and demonstrated a more significant reduction in symptoms of depression. Six months after the yoga regimen had ended, they continued to benefit.

Iyengar yoga emphasizes attention to detail and a precise focus on body alignment created by specific muscular movements. It is known for its use of "props"--including wall ropes, chairs and blocks--to help support people in various postures or asanas. These props make the positions easier for beginners and also decrease the strain on joints and muscles. The goal is to align the body, mind and spirit for health and well-being. Just say, "Om."

It doesn't matter what style of yoga you choose to practice: Iyengar, Hatha, Bikram(aka Hot Yoga), Ashtanga, Kundalini or Vinyasa. Select a style that best suits your lifestyle and comfort level.

Namaste