People who’ve had spinal fusion surgery may think that starting (or restarting) a yoga practice is completely out of the question—it seems a little too dangerous given all the twisting and backbending. While it may look a little different than you might imagine, it’s not impossible for spinal fusion patients to practice yoga. People with spinal fusions can definitely engage in a beneficial yoga practice—it may even help them regain strength and flexibility.
Yoga practice comes in a variety of styles, and having a variety of options is perfect for those dealing with the unique needs that come with the practice. Of course, everyone should consult with their doctor if they’re considering incorporating yoga into their routine, but take a look at some of the best poses for spinal fusion patients.
What is Spinal Fusion?
What is Spinal Fusion?
Before performing these poses, it is important to have a basic understanding of spinal fusion and how it affects a person’s body. Spinal fusion is a major surgery and is most often recommended for patients with conditions such as scoliosis, herniated discs, vertebral fractures, or spinal stenosis. This surgery is used to improve spinal stability, relieve pain, or correct deformities such as scoliosis.
Surgery fuses two or more vertebrae within the spine, eliminating motion between them. Because the sections are permanently connected, surgery fixes part or parts of the spine and changes the way it moves overall.
During the procedure, the surgeon places bone (or bone-like material) in the space between the vertebrae he or she is trying to connect. The pieces are then held together using metal plates, screws and rods. This process is designed to replicate the healing process that bones go through when they break, and to help the joined parts heal into one strong unit.
While the surgery is considered safe and relatively straightforward, it requires several days of hospitalization and several months of recovery. Typically, patients begin a rehabilitation program about 4 weeks after surgery. In this type of physical therapy, they train their body to follow the movement of the altered spine.
Targeted Yoga Poses
Targeted Yoga Poses
If you did yoga before your spinal fusion and want to start over, you may not be able to go right back to regular classes. On the other hand, for those who have had spinal fusion and want to practice yoga for the first time, you may not be able to take any classes offered by your local studio. In general, a more gentle style of yoga — such as restorative yoga or Iyengar yoga — is the best option for people with recent spinal fusion surgery. These styles focus on alignment and less physically demanding movements, rather than the more dynamic flow of the popular Vinyasa style.
No matter your level of experience, there are a few precautions and tips to keep in mind when practicing yoga after spinal fusion. When practicing, pay attention to gentle movements and listen to the needs of the body. Add props as needed to avoid twisting poses or bending backwards. When you go to class, let the teacher know what you are doing so they can best serve you in the classroom.
The following yoga poses are beneficial and generally safe for patients who have undergone spinal fusion surgery, and serve as a good introduction (or re-introduction) to the practice. Consider your individual needs when exercising, and consult with your physician before adding any new physical activity to your postoperative exercise program.
Tadasana – Tadasana
Tadasana – Tadasana
Tadasana or Tadasana is a basic yoga pose that helps lengthen the spine, improve balance, improve posture and strengthen the legs.
instruct:
Begin standing with big toes touching, heels slightly apart, and feet forming a very narrow “V” shape. Feel the weight on both feet to make sure it’s evenly distributed and balanced, not concentrated in one point.
Roll your shoulders down, straightening your spine and neck. You should draw a line from your feet to the top of your head, with the top of your head aligned directly above your pelvis. Your arms will be at your sides, but stay active and engaged. Turn your palms so they face the front of the room.
Feeling your feet on the mat, continue across all four corners of your feet. Make sure you continue to lengthen your spine and keep your shoulders rolled back and away from your ears. Your gaze should remain straight ahead of you, but be gentle and subdued. In this pose, continue to breathe deeply as you extend your spine. Hold for 30 seconds or more, then release.
Utkatasana – Chair Pose
Utkatasana – Chair Pose
Chair pose or Utkatasana is another pose that lengthens and strengthens the legs through the spine. It’s also great for strengthening the core.
instruct:
Start standing with your feet parallel. They can touch or be hip-width apart for more support. As you inhale, extend your arms overhead with your palms facing each other. As you exhale, bend your knees. Focus on keeping your thighs as parallel to the floor as possible while moving your hips back and toward the floor.
Your torso should be leaning slightly forward, with your spine straight. You should continue to press your tailbone down. Make sure to keep your shoulders away from your ears and squeeze your shoulder blades firmly. Enso