After herniating several discs in my lower back, I suffered years of chronic and debilitating back pain. While the doctors suggested surgery, I wanted to exhaust all other options before I made such a drastic decision. I saw orthopedic doctors, physiatrists, physical therapists, chiropractors, acupuncturists and osteopaths, trying every noninvasive option available before a friend suggested that I try yoga. Following her advice, I decided to take private lessons with Stephanie to see if yoga could help. Stephanie was knowledgeable, patient, and caring. Her ability to help me heal transcended what all the medical professionals were able to achieve, and within months I was back on track to living a healthy lifestyle. It’s been ten years since I started studying with Stephanie and thanks to my work with her I’ve been able to avoid the surgery. I’ve also done so without compromise as I’m able to enjoy karate, sailing, golf, tennis, surfing and all sorts of other rigorous sports… all without back pain.” – Dan Kern
This is a testimonial provided for Stephanie Foster and has been reposted with permission. You may find this and more tetimonails here. If you have a testimonial that could help guide others please send it to us: info [at] mylifeyoga [dot] com
Related Post: How Iyengar Yoga Helped Me Heal My Chronic Low Back Pain
Hi,
Thank you for this article, it brings me hope and optimism that things can change. I tried Pilates for a couple of years and felt quite good, although still suffered occasionally when lifting heavy articles. Can I ask what type of yoga you would recommend..I have tried one class but felt was very challenging and did not necessarily help. Best regards
Taha
Yoga will help back pain but you have to tell your yoga teacher of your pain and ask which poses you may have to avoid or modify. Generally speaking forward bends have to be avoided at the outset. You may want start with gentle restorative yoga or one-on-one yoga therapy. Another option is to do physio-therapy. IN all cases pay close attention to your pain and if it worsens you have to immediately stop. Also make sure you consult your doctor before doing anything.