How yoga helps cure Arthritis?

What is Arthritis? 

Arthritis is inflammation of joints which is caused due to degeneration of cartilage which is a firm but flexible tissue in between the joints. Cartilage acts like a shock absorber and protects the joints by  providing cushion and absorbing shock created during movements that put stress on them.

Two most common type of arthritis are Osteoarthritis (OA) and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA).

Osteoarthritis (OA)

Normal wear and tear gives rise to OA. An infection or injury can aggravate the degeneration of the connective tissue. In addition, family history of the disease increases the risk of developing an OA.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

RA is an autoimmune disease which means that your body’s own immune system attacks the healthy tissues of the body. These attacks affect synovium, a soft tissue in the joints that is responsible for producing a fluid that nourishes the cartilage and lubricates the cells.

Symptoms:

• Joint Pain
• Stiffness
• Swelling
• Decrease in the range of motion
• Redishness in skin around the joints
• Fatigue
• Anemia
• Loss of appetite due to inflammation
• Decrease in RBC count or slight fever

If left not treated on time, sever RA can cause permanent joint deformity.

How can yoga help?

The practice of Hatha Yoga emphasizes on alignment of postures, builds strength, increases endurance and balance. In addition to this it also includes breathing practices and techniques for relaxation or meditation.

Gentle yoga forms can help to improve the blood circulation in joints and remove unwanted toxins.

Aditi is a certified Yoga Instructor for Power Yoga from Akshar Power Yoga. She teaches Hatha yoga, Power Yoga, Meditative Yoga and Yoga Therapy. She has experience in teaching and practicing yoga for about 4 years.