According to the Neuropathy Association, there are more than 100 different types of peripheral neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy is a neurological disorder most commonly caused by diabetes, but can be caused by other factors such as autoimmune disorders, tumors or trauma to specific parts of your body. Common symptoms of neuropathy include numbness, tingling, difficulty balancing or other abnormal sensations. Certain yoga poses may help alleviate certain symptoms. Always talk to your doctor before beginning a yoga program.
Inversions
Inversions are yoga poses in which you literally invert your body, such as forward bends, headstands, shoulderstands, and adho mukha svanasana, also known as downward-facing dog. These poses help to calm the mind, strengthen your core muscles and stimulate the endocrine system. According to the article, "Are You Next?" by Gabrielle Kaplan-Meyer in the May-June 2005 edition of "Yoga Journal," inversions may help to ease joint pain and stiff ligaments, help to soothe the central nervous system and reverse the numbness associated with neuropathy.
Feet Exercises
Many people who suffer from neuropathy have problems with numbness and tingling in their feet. According to Sandra Pleasants, a senior Iyengar yoga teacher, in an interview with author Suza Francina in her book, "The New Yoga for Healthy Aging: Living Longer, Living Stronger and Loving Every Day," finger and toe exercises can help to alleviate neuropathy in your feet. One beneficial finger and toe exercise involves threading your fingers between your toes while you're sitting on the floor in a cross-legged position. Spread and stretch your fingers to increase the circulation and range of motion of your toes. Repeat this movement for several minutes.
Pawanmuktasana
Pawanmuktasana is a simple asana, or pose, that can help to restore strength in certain areas of your body affected by neuropathy, according to authors Jacqueline Koay, director and founder of Sun Yoga, and Theodora Barenholtz, founder of YogaSense Therapy, in their book, "The Science and Philosophy of Teaching Yoga and Yoga Therapy." Pawanmuktasana, otherwise known as knees-to-chest, is a pose performed lying down. Bring your right knee to your chest and hold your shin with your arms, trying to bring your head to your knee. Hold this pose for a few moments, and switch legs. Repeat this sequence up to four times, or as comfortable for you.
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