Yoga Therapy for Pain

This 10-minute yoga routine, designed for cancer patients and survivors, will guide you in a mindful movement practice to help release tension, relax muscles, and ease joint discomfort and pain often associated with cancer treatments. This simple series of movements can be done on the floor or in bed if needed.

Recommended Props: yoga mat, two blocks or cushion, chair without arms

The joint ASCO/SIO guidelines for the use of integrative medicine for pain management published in 2022 include recommendations that yoga may be considered for patients with breast cancer experiencing aromatase inhibitor–related joint pain and for patients experiencing pain after treatment of breast or head and neck cancers. The National Comprehensive Cancer Network states patients should consider yoga for reducing pain.

Video Highlights:
0:45 Introduction & Recommended Props
1:30 Seated Mountain (Sukhasana) with breath
1:19 Lateral Stretch (Parsva Sukhasana)
3:48 Childs pose (Balasana)
4:50 Table & Cat/Cow to a Spinal Balance
6:23 Knee Down Warrior (Anjaneyasana)
7:55 Transition to Seat
8:05 Knees to Chest Pose Apanasana
10:00 Transition to Seat & Mindful Breathing

Tina Walter, C-IAYT
Certified Yoga Therapist
Osher Center for Integrative Health at the University of Cincinnati

Sonya Verma, MHSA, E-RYT 500
Certified Yoga Therapist
Osher Center for Integrative Health at the University of Cincinnati