Scoliosis, Osteoporosis and Fused SI Joint (January 2003)

FIRST QUESTION:

From Maitri Guerrie

I am being blessed with a private client, she is 82 years old and has scoliosis, osteoporosis and fused si joint (two back surgeries). I almost passed on the opportunity, but Master said to help her. I am just beginning to research for gentle movement, relaxation and opening of the heart. I would appreciate any input. She is a Catholic nun, too. She likes it that I have a spiritual name. We are going to have fun!

Thanks, Maitri (formerly Michelle) Guerrie

ANSWERS:

From Georgia Stansell, RYT May 2000

Maitri ~ Yes, this is a blessing!! I work with a young girl who has fused cervical vertebra, scoliosis, lordosis and other challenges including, deafness and a heart condition.

Below are the poses we do in every session. When she is having a good day, we do more Standing, Strengthening and Balancing poses. Days that she is not at full speed, I increase the time spent in Pranyama and Savasana, and add some Restorative Poses.

• Pranyama
• Warm-up Poses
• Warrior II
• Balancing Poses
• Hip Openers
• Bridge
• Savasana

Working with this client has taught me soooo much as I'm sure you will learn a great deal from your private client.

Georgia

SECOND QUESTION:

From Clara L. Morgan, AYTT graduate of August 2003 from Middletown, RI

I have a new student, who will begin attending my gentle yoga class today. Two days ago she told me that she has a severe form of scoliosis. She said that when seen from her side, her spine curves to make the letter "C". She is in her mid Fifties and a bit overweight.

I would like any suggestions and cautions for teaching students with scoliosis, especially if anyone has already done it.

Thank you for your help!

With Joy,
Clara

ANSWERS:

From J Addarich, DC AYTT Nov 2003

Dear Clara,

Fear not, due to her advanced age, the important thing to know is that those curves are there to stay.  There will be modifications that may need to occur for certain postures.  You will have to look at what direction the curve is in, and remember that the side of concavity will have altered organ space, such as lungs and heart if the scoliosis is in the thoracic region.  Yoga is very beneficial for scoliosis, but the changes will/may come slowly.

Best wishes, Dr. J

From Susan Hayes, 1999 AYTT graduate

I am Susan Hayes, 1999 AYTT graduate, and you can reach me at susan@mountaintopyoga.com.  I have a good article from an old Yoga Journal article about scoliosis and yoga, and there are many postures (with photos) suggested.  Let me know (by e-mail) if you'd like me to fax or mail you a copy.

Cheers!  Susan