Neuropathic pain due to lumbar disc herniation can be extremely debilitating. You know you’re suffering from neuropathic pain when you feel a shooting or burning pain.
This especially painful condition in the lumbar spine is often the result of either lifting something too heavy with improper form or from deterioration of lumbar discs over time.
When a lumbar disc herniates and leaks some of its inner material it changes the structure of your spine. The fluid surrounding your joints is extremely important because it serves as a shock absorber between the vertebrae. It also supports the upper body and allows a wide range of movement in all directions.
When your lumbar disc fluid is compromised, it puts pressure on your nerves and triggers intense pain. It’s hard to get relief from neuropathic pain because the problem is a combination of structural damage to your disc combined with the reaction from your nervous system.
There is no magic pill that can fix this problem. However, strength-based yoga can help prevent disc deterioration, increase core strength, and relieve pain.
Recent studies on strength-based yoga point to different ways that people suffering from neuropathic pain can get relief.
What Do Research Scientists Have To Say About Yoga and Neuropathic Back Pain?
Can yoga help relieve neuropathic back pain?
Short answer: Yes.
But, not all yoga practices are created equally.
According to a 2021 study published in the journal Spine, it was determined that certain stretch and strength-based yoga exercises could be a promising treatment option for neuropathic pain due to LDH.
Basically, researchers in this study gathered a group of people with neuropathic pain from lumbar disc herniation and split them into two groups. One group did yoga, while the other group didn’t. The group that did yoga practiced for 1 hour per session, twice per week for 12 weeks.
The researcher’s analysis showed a statistically significant drop in neuropathic pain, low back pain, disability, and overall increased function for the yoga group.
But, the researchers used specific yoga practices. It’s important to identify what works and what might set you back.
Which Kinds of Yoga Will Help the Most?
Marketing for yoga practices can be confusing. There’s Hatha, Yin, Hot Yoga, and dozens of other practices that may or may not be appropriate for people suffering from neuropathic pain.
No matter how it’s marketed, make sure that your practice is one that uses slow, controlled movements that involve gentle stretching and strengthening poses that encourage good posture and core strength.
You don’t want to be pushing your limits. Instead, focus on gently strengthening your core and improving your range of motion bit by bit. Intense yoga practices will likely set you back and increase pain.
Here are some poses that (when done gently) are ideal:
- Cat/Cow pose
- Locust pose
- Cobra pose
- Downward Dog
- Triangle pose
Sometimes, these poses go by different names. Be sure to do your own research and consult professionals. Communicate to your yoga instructor/teacher what your goals and limitations are.
Also, make sure to consult your doctor and neurologist before starting any yoga training regimen.
Yoga, when done properly, can provide big benefits to people suffering from neuropathic pain from lumbar disc herniation.
