Is Yoga recommended for Intracranial Hypertension/Pseudotumor Cerebri???

[djollens]

Hello,

After suffering with headaches and vision problems for the past year, I was diagnosed late July 08 with Pseudotumor Cerebri/IH. My opening pressure upon diagnoses was around 24 and the papillidema was pretty severe. ( no damage though). Since then, I have had one more spinal tap in the end of september, which caused a leak...and symptoms which had finally subsided are back and the pressure/vision problems are worse. While I am not that overweight, I do need to lose around 25lbs. to be down to 120. I have been like a convalescent since my diagnosis...not really doing anything strenuous. No stairs...long walking...etc. I need to excercise and am wondering if Yoga would be recommended for someone with my condition. I just want to do something that will not only shape me up physically, but also mentally. Also, I am still having pain and spasms in the LP/Bloodpatch area. How long does that area take to heal? ( It has been about one month)

Kind Regards,
Denise

[soojit]

I struggled with IIH for a long time. Since it is idiopathic doctors have no idea what caused it. I started practising yoga and Ayurveda. Changed my diet completely. Keep my stress level down and now I am doing just fine.

[soojit]

You are right. One should be careful with yoga. Inversions should be avoided completely.

[elevated_pressure]

Hi,

I also have papilledema and elevated intrakranial pressure. What has helped me most is biodynamic craniosakral theraphy (it's magnificent if you find a skilled practicioner). Also doing this together with feldekrais (one to one), personcentered/remidial pilates and homeopathy is my cure for treating it. Personally I find yoga increases my pressure/pain since it's alot upside down-wich makes me worse- however that's just my personal experience. I am trying out yoga again, since I really like it and want to be able to do it, but am not sure yet wheter I will be able to do it or not.. All the best to you, I know what you're dealing with!