Twists for Students With Osteoporosis

To the Editor:

I appreciate Loren Fishman calling me an excellent yoga practitioner in his article on May 15, however I would like to clarify my position on twists for students with osteoporosis. Rotation is an important movement for flexibility and function, and I do not advise those with compromised bone to avoid twists. Rather I follow the National Osteoporosis Foundation guidelines in cautioning against “twisting of the spine to the point of strain” and encourage students with osteoporosis to avoid extreme twists, to keep rotation in the mid range and use a gentle quality of motion. Within these critical safety considerations it is still important to maintain and enhance functional movement, as well as to encourage the students to move with gratitude and joy.

CAROL KRUCOFF

Co-director, Yoga for Seniors

Author, Healing Yoga for Neck and Shoulder Pain