Yoga for Slipped Disc | Slipped Disc Exercises

What is a Slipped Disc?

A slipped disc or slipped disk occurs when the shock absorbing pads between the spinal bones get ruptured. When this rupture occurs, not only do the pads fail to absorb any force that is subjected to that area of the spine, but the jellylike substance that leaks out from the pads places additional pressure on the spinal cord. A slipped disc can occur anyway along the length of the spine. It is most frequently seen in the lower back.

What Causes a Slip Disc?

A number of factors can contribute to a slip disk. These include a degeneration of the spinal structure due to old age or disease or sudden pressure on the spine due to incorrect movements or trauma.

What are the Symptoms of a Slip Disc?

A slipped disc can manifest itself in a number of painful symptoms. It must be kept in mind that the symptoms do not necessarily appear only on the affected area, they can be present on any part of the body that is connected by the same nerve. Some of the symptoms of a slip disc include shoulder pain, numbness, or tingling in the neck, back, arm, hands, buttocks, legs, or feet. It may also lead to sciatica. Slip discs may also result in an inability to control bowel or bladder movements.

How can Yoga help a Slipped Disc?

Yoga is one of the best exercises for slipped disc. There have been documented cases where this ancient therapeutic technique has completely eased all the pain and other symptoms associated with a slipped disk. Yoga enjoys such a large success rate in curing a slipped disc due to its inherent nature. Yoga exercises, or Asanas, are designed to iron out any imbalances in the body and return it to a balanced state.

There are several yoga slipped disc exercises that can provide a wealth of benefits and provide prompt relief from pain. These include the Pawan Mukta Asana (Wind releasing posture), Salabha Asana (Locust pose), Makara Asana (Crocodile pose), and Bhujanga Asana (Cobra pose).

Yoga breath control exercises, or Pranayama, also have a beneficial effect on the spine. These breathing exercises are some of the best exercises for slipped disc. This is because these exercises mobilize the rib cage and help to strengthen the core muscles. When these muscles become stronger, the pressure that is put on the spine is automatically reduced.

Precautions

If you suspect that you are suffering from a slip disc, do ensure that you visit a qualified medical practitioner. Any form of complementary therapy should only be carried out in consultation with your chosen doctor.