Course Description: Yoga is an ancient tradition that has been westernized and often practiced for its proposed health benefits. The recent global increase in popularity of home-based yoga, an ancient Indian technique practiced for thousands of years, has translated into its use as a complementary therapy for a multitude of joint problems. Lower Extremity injuries or pain ranging from soft tissue conditions, fractures to chronic osteoarthritis are one of the most common conditions seen in primary care and yoga is a safe way to ease pain and help improve functional strength and flexibility along with its other numerous benefits. Research has shown practicing simple yoga asanas help with chronic pain and further prevent recurrence. Also, one in three adults aged 65 and older have reported falls and yoga not only improves lower extremity strength but also challenges balance. In this course, we will discuss common lower extremity injuries and how common asanas or poses can be helpful to improve strength and balance. We will also discuss the application of these poses during various stages of rehabilitation. Detailed videos will be included to highlight clinical application and muscle activity.

Educational Level: Introductory – Intermediate – Advanced

Course Outline

Hour #1

• Introduction
• What is Balance?
• Benefits of Asanas/Poses
• Common Lower Extremity Conditions

Hour #2

• Phases of Rehabilitation
• Application
• EMG Studies
• Lower Limb Biomechanical Analysis
• Avoiding Injuries
• Summary