According to the Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center, 70 million Americans suffer from some form of arthritis, the leading cause of disability. While there is no known cure and early treatment remains the most effective treatment, the center has determined via scientific studies that yoga benefits osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis patients. The evidence from clinical research trials suggests that when combined with good medical care, yoga provides important physical and psychological health benefits such as improvement in joint health, physical function and mental and emotional well-being.

When arthritis is present in the joints, the protective cartilage covering the ends of the bone is damaged or worn down, allowing bone to rub painfully against bone. Not just an issue for the elderly, arthritis can be caused by genetic factors, as well as old sports injuries, bad postural habits and certain kinds of repetitive work.

The pain of bone rubbing on bone may also be the result of misalignment caused by unconsciously holding in some muscles, the failure to engage other muscles, dysfunctional patterns of use and unusually shaped bones. Through observation and knowledge of anatomy, an experienced yoga teacher can help with misalignments by helping patients become aware of dysfunctional movement patterns and poor posture and making adjustments so that there is less stress on the bony parts of the joints. In essence, space in the joints can be created so the bones can move more easily and pain is lessened through yoga.

Jacqueline Glasgow is the owner and director of the Naples Yoga Center, a certified yoga life coach and certified Yoga Body Bootcamp instructor. Naples Yoga Center is located at 13240 Tamiami Trail N., Ste. 206, in Naples. For more information, call 239-592-4809 or visit NaplesYogaCenter.com.