Yoga for Pain Management

So, I’ve been doing some research on pain.  In my love of all things yoga I know that many People come to yoga to “nurse” or “heal” an injury.  Their doctor or PT probably said “go take some yoga classes” and there they are….no clue what to do or what type of yoga class to take and show up expecting healed.  Well, it certainly could happen, the healing part, but pain, chronic pain is a twisted ugly bitch.  So be prepared for some challenges on this journey towards health.


Take a look at the pic.  It shows what goes on so simply when humans experience pain that doesn’t go away.  It’s a game changer and not in a good way.  It can and does result in changes in a person.  Even in their behavior.  It’s completely normal and is a difficult thing to deal with.  Pain can make you mean.  It can lead to addiction to drugs and that has a whole different set of problems.  Pain = Problems.  Plain and simple.  I just read a study that discussed these components to chronic pain.


Chronic pain behavior seems to be composed of at least 9 components: 


anxiety, 
attention seeking, 
verbal pain complaints, 
medication use, 
general verbal complaints, 
distorted posture and mobility, 
fatigue, 
insomnia, 
and depressive mood


Doesn’t that sound like a shit storm?  How does one deal with all or even part of that?  Well….I’m no expert but I’d say see a therapist and also deal with it this yogic way:


meditation in the am and the pm (pm meaning before bed)
gentle yoga with lots of  gentle stretching + some strength building asanas
go to a yoga class (for the community/support aspect of it)
don’t judge yourself
don’t compare
enjoy the present moment
read some yoga and/or meditation books


Anyone have any other suggestions?  I’d love to hear what you’ve tried or think may be helpful.

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