Should You Be Doing Yoga? 5 Health Conditions That May Require Caution

While yoga is often touted as a universal panacea, the reality is that certain postures can pose significant risks, particularly for individuals with underlying health conditions. The pursuit of advanced poses, such as headstands, deep backbends and intense twists can lead to unintended consequences including spinal strain, cardiovascular complications and exacerbation of existing health issues. In fact, there are several health conditions for which yoga should be approached with caution or avoided altogether. Thus, we've compiled the five health conditions in which yoga must be avoided to avoid potential risks.

Health Conditions When Several Yoga Poses Should Be Avoided

Preganancy

Prenatal yoga has benefits but poses like twists, backbends and inversions can be risky during pregnancy. Intense poses in the first trimester may increase miscarriage risk while in the third trimester, they can restrict blood flow, pressure the uterus and disrupt balance, necessitating careful consideration and expert guidance.

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Hypertension

However, yoga can calm the heart and lower blood pressure, advanced postures like shoulder stands and headstands can ironically spike blood pressure. Gentle practices like seated poses, forward bends and slow breathing exercises offer a safer alternative, providing benefits without cardiac risks.

When yoga should be avoided? (Image Credits: Canva)

Spine Or Back Issues

Yoga can alleviate back pain but individuals with herniated discs, sciatica or post-surgical spine conditions must exercise caution. Extreme poses like wheel, cobra or plow can exacerbate injuries, delaying healing. Instead, modified movements emphasising stability, support and gentle progression can promote safe and effective recovery.

PTSD

While yoga can heal emotional pain, certain poses can trigger stored trauma, overwhelming those with PTSD or unhealed trauma. Deep hip openers and breathwork can release emotional memories. Working with trauma-informed yoga practitioners ensures a safe experience.

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Vertigo And Balance Disorders

Yoga enhances balance and core strength; individuals with inner ear issues, vertigo or neurological imbalances may struggle with equilibrium-challenging poses like tree pose or eagle pose. To avoid disorientation and falls, it's essential to modify practices, focusing on grounding techniques that foster stability.

Disclaimer: This content, including suggestions and advice, provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information before making any drastic changes in your lifestyle.