Yoga after injury:
begin with a conversation.

This is general information, not a rehabilitation plan or personal medical advice. Ask your treating healthcare professional whether yoga is appropriate and which movements you should avoid or modify.

Before your first session

“Recovering from an injury” can mean many different things. A recent procedure, an old injury, and a return after a long break are not interchangeable starting points. There is no single recovery-yoga sequence that fits everyone.

For your next healthcare appointment, consider writing down these questions:

• Is yoga appropriate at this stage, or should I wait?
• Are there restrictions on movement, loading, balance, or getting down to the floor?
• What changes or symptoms mean I should stop and contact you?
• When should we review those restrictions?

Turn “getting back to normal” into a useful goal

Think about what you want to feel more comfortable doing in everyday life. Perhaps you want time for gentle movement, more confidence starting a practice, or guidance about the options available in a yoga class. A specific goal gives the instructor something concrete to discuss with you.

You do not need to email a detailed medical history to inquire. Start with a general description of your goals; discuss how any relevant movement guidance should be shared before instruction begins.

Online private yoga or a video?

A recorded practice can introduce you to a teaching style, but the instructor cannot see your response or answer questions in the moment. Watching a video is not clearance to follow every movement. An online private session offers an individual conversation and opportunities to pause, while still having the limitations of remote instruction.

Recovery Yoga With Me offers online private yoga taught by a certified yoga instructor with seven years of experience who is also a licensed physician assistant. These sessions are yoga instruction, not medical appointments, physical therapy, or a substitute for your treating team.

Safety resource: NCCIH’s overview of yoga effectiveness and safety.