Yoga and Hypermobility
Hypermobility in the elbows
Hypermobility means your joints can move beyond the normal range of motion. The connective tissue or fascia around the joints are very flexible.
Hypermobility is on a spectrum, meaning it varies in severity. It may affect one area or all over the body. Common areas of hypermobility are elbows, wrists, fingers and knees.
Hypermobility usually doesn’t cause any pain or medical issues.
Hypermobility is relatively common and affects 20% of the population. In some people, excessive flexibility maybe a rare inherited condition, Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS).
Hypermobility and Pregnancy
During pregnancy, an increase in hormones (notably relaxin) increases flexibility in the body. This is one way the body is preparing for birth. Low back and pelvic pain is a common symptom during pregnancy. The presence of hypermobility is one of several factors associated with developing lower back pain. Increased instability of the sacroiliac (SI) joints may be responsible for pelvic pain in pregnancy.
Yoga and Hypermobility
Typically, when a hypermobile individual practices yoga they may look amazing and flexible, however it is usually borrowed strength or a compensation. Individuals with hypermobility should seek out a strength based yoga practice. Regardless of if you are pregnant or not pregnant, training your body to use your muscles during exercise and daily life can help prevent injury and excess strain.
Practicing yoga with hypermobility:
Start in a smaller range of motion
Find the work
Observe the sensation
Once you have established what the work is in your body, then you may begin to explore the posture
Yin Yoga
Many yogis, especially flexible ones are drawn to a “stretchy” yoga practice. While, there is nothing wrong with “stretching”, overtime it may contribute to, long and weak muscle tone. This doesn’t mean you should never practice a yin style practice.
Tips for practicing yin in a hypermobile body:
Instead of going to your edge – do 70% or less in your stretch
Ease into postures
Hold for less time
