Jillian Hughes, PT, DPT, OCS, CYT, physical therapist at HSS speaks with Health Central and shares how yoga can help improve flexibility and ease stiffness can help lessen the pain from psoriatic arthritis.

Yoga, an ancient practice of gentle movement that combines physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation, has been used for everything from smoking cessation to stress reduction. Among its many applications, yoga may be helpful for some people living with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) by increasing flexibility in stiff joints, reducing inflammation, and strengthening muscles.

There are many different types of yoga. Each type of yoga can be modified to your level of fitness and flexibility. 

Which one you should try depends on your personal preference—there is no right type of yoga for someone with psoriatic arthritis, says Hughes. “Every type of yoga will likely involve some variation of flexibility, balance, strength, breathwork, and meditation, all of which are beneficial for someone with psoriatic arthritis,” Hughes says. “Read the class description prior to attending to determine if it seems like a good fit for you.”

Read the full article at healthcentral.com.