Adapting for Knee Pain

General Considerations

• Review Anatomy of the Knees, Lower Legs & Feet.
• Inquire into the student’s experiences and learn if there has been a diagnosis.
• Engage in a well-rounded strengthening and stretching practice to address minor pain and to prevent knee issues.
• For considerations during active knee pain, please see below.

ASANA UNLIKELY TO BE APPROPRIATE DURING SEVERE PAIN & INFLAMMATION

People often seek help from a yoga teacher or therapist when the pain first hits, but the time for yoga therapy is not in the acute stage, which usually involves severe pain and inflammation. – Larry Payne 

TORN MENISCUS

If the pain [of a torn meniscus] is severe and continuous, surgery may be the only choice. If the pain is minor and manageable, what else can you do to make sure you don’t make it worse? Yin yoga! By working to open the hips, slowly and over time, we can reduce stress on the menisci and minimize discomfort. – Bernie Clark 

During Active Knee Pain