Dena from Louisana: I am having extreme pain in my left hip, down my leg and into my foot. Pain shoots from my foot all the way up when I take a step. Also there is pain in my leg and butt when I sit. I have used yoga and other types of exercise for about an hour a day in the past. Can I use yoga now?
Susan: I’m sorry you’re having pain in your hip and leg. While yoga can help many areas of our bodies, hearts and minds, I’d suggest you address the pain you’re having before trying to help it with yoga. Please see your physician to find out what is causing your pain before doing a yoga practice.
You may have a spinal misalignment and, if so, you might also see a good chiropractor to determine the cause and readjust your vertebrae. From personal experience, I can suggest the Gonstad method of chiropractic. Once you determine the cause of the pain and get it treated, you can resume your yoga safely and pain free.
Hope this helps!
Susan