2nd Back Injury Since Beginning

Viewing 3 posts - 1 through 3 (of 3 total)

Author

Posts
MoJo
Participant

October 22, 2008 at 5:51 am

Post count: 7

#1208

Hi Gabrielle,

I began Bikram’s Yoga early July. I have completely loved it from the get go, yes the heat was something to overcome, especially in the dead of summer, but I am past that.

Here is my concern: I have had 2 lower back injuries in the span of 6 weeks. Neither occured in class, yet I am wondering if it is somehow connected.

I have had this occur a couple times in my life in child-bearing years when things were supple and getting back into tone. It has been close to four years since my last episode.

My core is not strong, I was hoping this would develop from my practise. My first injury was the result of too much garden clean up in one day. This pain developed into pain shooting from my back into the glute, down the groin and then to the front of my knee. At points it was excruciating. I was able to go back doing modifications to the necessary postures 2 weeks after. I always felt better having gone to class. The injury I am currently nursing is still lower back but was more of a locking sensation in the middle lower back when I went to come up from taking a drink from a water fountain (about my hip height). It was one of those moves where my mind was oblivious to and before I knew it I was down on the ground. No sciatic pain this time, but seriously, I could not walk for 48 hours. I crawled from my bed to the washroom only. Thankfully, I was able to begin shuffling my feet once the muscle spasms subsided. Today, I have been walking, though still feeling weak in the lower right side.

I am wondering if this is the right practise for me. I am 44 years old, about 20lbs overweight, like I said with a weak core. What can you tell me, or ask if you need more information.

Thank you so much,
MOJO

Gabrielle (The Hot Yoga Doctor)
Forum Owner

October 23, 2008 at 5:06 am

Post count: 3048

#3602

Hi MoJo

Oh dear, you have really been having a hard time. :shut: Back spasms can be so debilitating.

You have hit the nail on the head!

You are definitely exhibiting signs of weak core strength and stability. The amazing thing when you sent me this question, I was shooting a short instructional video on a neat technique that could help you. But all that aside. You want answers now.

You want to know if this hot yoga is going to help you improve your core strength. Well yes and no! (I am sure I got some attention with that comment! :cheese:) In order to strengthen your core muscles you have to know how to activate them, or at least learn some exercises that will create the awareness (and strength) in that area. Doing the static styles of hot or Bikram yoga it is possible that you can perform the whole series without ever really engaging your core muscles to sufficient effect. And you are testimony to that.

The more active styles where you do jump throughs for example in Sun Salutations, really force you to develop those muscles.

So yes this yoga is fantastic for you. With a condition attached. 😉 I would strongly recommend attending some Pilates classes or finding some way to activate these very important muscles.

Of course, don’t return to yoga until your spasms have disappeared.

Namaste
Gabrielle 🙂

MoJo
Participant

October 23, 2008 at 7:15 pm

Post count: 7

#3605

Thanks for your insight Gabrielle!

You hit the nail on the head!! I can get through Bikram Yoga without engaging my core for the most part. Having said that, I do see (through my reflection in the mirror) and feel my core strength has improved a degree from class, especially when doing the standing series.

You know how our spirit directs us to what we need, if we listen. Well, over the past few days I have been asking what it is that my body needs. Pilates has come up (fantastic to have you place that to me, as well – my receptors are working). I used to do pilates and still have the VHS series. So …. I believe it is time to dust off the tapes and build the center of my body to wellness.

Another insight I have been presented with is whether this style of Yoga is right for my body, at this time. Too vigorous are the words I hear. Perhaps a gentle style will lead to a healthier me. I know that completely goes against Bikram’s philosophy, yet we all can’t wear the same shoes either!

Our journey’s are ours, and by implementing the experience of educators and facilitators, and listening to our spirits – we live a path of uniqueness. I remain searching out my way and appreciate your guidance.

Thank you dearly for your care.
MOJO
Author

Posts