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QUESTION: Would yoga help me to recover from a back injury?
Hi Beth,
I'd like to begin yoga and was wondering if you could recommend a place in SF.
Also, are there places that specialize in stretches that are beneficial to
surfers or do you have to know what you want to do going into it?
I have never done yoga before. I have all kinds of
joint pains that seem to be alleviated with stretching, so I am thinking that yoga might be a good idea.
I have a middle back injury that has been
nagging me since mid June (hyperextension). I went to
see a doctor about a month ago. The x-rays were
negative and he recommended that I see a chiropractor.
I did, and it did not help AT ALL. Any advice on what
to do now?
Matt
ANSWER:
Hey, Matt
Whew, this is gonna be a doozy so listen up.
Let's start with your back injury. I never like anyone starting a new exercise routine with an unknown injury. And yes, that includes yoga. Most would think that something as "mellow" as yoga would be good for one's ailments. True, for the knowledgeable practitioner, but it's so FALSE for the newbie! Yoga can be mellow, but it can also be incredibly rigorous and dangerous if you push yourself too hard and you don't listen to your body… especially for those who are competitive in nature (like myself). It has taken me years to settle down on my yoga mat and do only what my bod can do. I have incurred several injuries, my fault, but these injuries have taught me HOW to practice yoga.
SO, maybe try another chiropractor or give Lance Harriman at Potrero PT a call. He is an amazing surfer/physical therapist, and he has helped several of my Ask Beth people. His # is 415-701-1000 (San Francisco). He will at least be able to give you an idea of what you are dealing with and what you can and should do with this injury.
As for yoga studios, I'm not sure of any in your neck of the woods. I am sure there are a ton of great ones out there. I know of several around the beach, and I am sure a bunch of surfers hang out at a few of those. What you should look for in a studio are well-qualified instructors, maybe one that specializes in injury, and one that offers classes that match your needs. You need to start out basic with something like level one Hatha flow, Ayangar, or any other class that teaches you the basics and focuses on form. Yoga is about as hard to learn as surfing… it is a lifelong practice and changes every day. Keep the gym thoughts out of the yoga studio. Use the gym if you want to build up your pecs! You will be amazed at the strength you gain from yoga. Major core strength and deep muscular strength from the bone out. I am not so sure you want to be lifting until your back is better- or you figure out what it is!
Okay, I could write a novel on this, but I gotta get some food in me before work.
Take it easy and give Lance a call. It would help a ton. Let me know what you find out.
Hasta,
Beth
(11/13/05)
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