Yoga may reduce kyphosis (curved spine) Monday 10th August, 2009
Developing a curved spine (known as kyphosis) may be preventable
by using yoga as a way to remedy the condition, according to a
study. Kyphosis is the exaggerated rounding of the back
sometimes referred to as round back or hunchback due to a hump
developing. Kyphosis is caused by developmental problems,
degenerative disease (spinal arthritis), osteoporosis or spinal
injury and typically affects the elderly although adults and
adolescents can be affected too. The six month study carried out
by the University of California assessed whether specific yoga
postures could intervene to reduce kyphosis 168 men and women
aged 60 and older with kyphosis were placed into two groups –
one receiving active treatment of three yoga classes per week
and the other a monthly luncheon and seminar. Participants
involved with the yoga classes experienced a 4.4% improvement in
flexicurve kyphosis angle and a 5% improvement in kyphosis index
but not significant improv