Is Yoga for MS patients? Many would say a big NO. However, if you understand the reasons and symptoms of MS, you will know that yoga can be very beneficial for Multiple Sclerosis patients. Stress and anxiety are one of the predisposing factors that trigger Multiple Sclerosis, and since yoga is one of the best ways to relieve the stress, it can be very helpful while treating Multiple Sclerosis.
How Can Yoga Help MS Patients?
Multiple sclerosis is a progressively disabling demyelinating disease, affecting the nerve fibers of the brain and spinal cord, which is marked by periodic exacerbations and remissions. The symptoms of this condition and the condition itself can be easily aggravated by stress and anxiety. Yoga for MS patients is an excellent technique that promotes proper blood circulation, which is very important for the alleviation of this condition.
Muscle weakness is one of the major symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis. As the disease progresses, it will lead to paralysis, hyperreflexia, spasticity, tremors and even gait ataxia. However, if the patient can practice yoga on a regular basis, then many of these symptoms can be alleviated and it can slow down the progression towards disability. While medication is most important in finding relief for MS symptoms, alternate treatments, like yoga, have also been found helpful by many MS patients all around the world.
Lyengar Yoga for MS Patients
A type of yoga called Lyengar yoga is known as the yoga for MS patients, as it is most effective and appropriate for this condition. Lyengar yoga or yoga for MS patients is highly beneficial for proper physical structure, de-stressing and healing. This is very helpful, since flare ups can influence balance, coordination of movements and strength. It is much easier to follow Lyengar yoga in comparison to other forms of yoga, as it uses straps and blocks to hold on to a pose. If you are new to yoga, then using blocks and straps can boost your confidence. In most scenarios new yoga practitioners are shy to try on the more flexible poses, due to the fear of hurting themselves or of getting embarrassed.
Practicing Lyengar yoga can help with maintaining balance, which in many cases becomes difficult for MS patients. The wide range of poses in Lyengar yoga can help with muscle toning. It can also increase the range of motion for your body.
It is always good to find a yoga instructor who is familiar with Multiple Sclerosis and its symptoms. If you are fortunate enough to find one, then you will be able to obtain faster results. Explaining the yoga instructor about your condition would help in tailoring the practice as per your needs.
