Hip Replacement–What we want to avoid.

In my last workshop we looked at the anatomy of the hip and discussed some of the risks involved in over-opening this joint.  It is rare to think of the hips as having hypermobility, but in the case of advanced practitioners who work diligently at excessive extension and extreme external rotation in this joint, laxity is a common result.  

Too much length in the ligaments that hold the joint together, coupled with a lack of direct strengthening of stabilizer muscles may result in degeneration of cartilage tissues and eventually bone.  In the most extreme cases, hip replacement will be necessary.  The video I have inserted below illustrates the procedure in beautiful detail, showing exactly what a patient will experience in the case of an Anterior Hip Replacement.

While this is done in computer illustration, it is still a powerful representation and may be too graphic for some viewers.  I recommend caution in viewing for yourself.  I do believe, however, that a more accurate understanding of the potential consequences of our actions in practice, may guide us toward a slower, more observant practice on our mat.

I would love your feedback on this post, as I plan to use more material of this sort in my quest to open up the world of anatomy and physiology to my community of heartfelt asana practitioners.

~Namaste

Tags: anatomy, asana, graphic, hip replacement, hips, ligaments, moderation, physiology, Practice, surgery, video, yoga

Intro to Yoga: A 5-Class Series!

1-2:30 P.M.  August 28th, September 4th, 11th, 18th, & 25th  $65–Pre-Registration Requested

Join me for weekly immersion into the fundamentals of your new Yoga Practice.  Together we will explore the shapes of the foundational poses of Hatha Yoga, learning how to build them from the ground up.  In this format, we will have the time to pay close attention to action and alignment that a regular class just doesn’t have time for.  Begin building new Muscle-Memory from the outset, learn to tap into your inner awareness, and gain the focus needed for seated meditation.

This 5-week program will cover the fundamentals of:

• Standing Poses
• Balance Poses
• Twists & Backbends
• Core Stabilizers
• Inversions
• Transitions
• Pranayama Breathwork
• Guided Meditation

We will take our time to break poses down so they make sense within our own personal bodies, learning how to use tools and props to bring the pose to us in a safe way.  Don’t worry, we won’t be cranking for a full two hours!!  This format allows for plenty of discussion and questions, adjustments and breaks.

Contact Richelle directly to register:  206 931 2949 or intro@unitytherapeutic.com

Tags: action, alignment, backbends, balance poses, core, events, focus, foundation, fundamentals, guided meditation, immersion, inversions, Practice, pranayama, standing poses, transitions, twists, Workshops, yoga basics