Episode Details

Bursitis, inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that reduce friction in the shoulder, can make overhead movements and weight-bearing poses uncomfortable. But understanding how to work with students who have bursitis doesn't require a degree in physical therapy. It requires foundational knowledge of modern pain science, intelligent modification strategies, and language that reduces nervous system threat. This episode breaks down what yoga teachers actually need to know about teaching yoga to students with bursitis, from the initial conversation through specific pose modifications to knowing when to refer out.

What You'll Learn About Teaching Yoga to Students with Bursitis:

• What is Bursitis?
• Understanding Bursitis from a Modern Pain Science Perspective 
• The Initial Conversation That Sets You and Your Students Up for Success 
• Practical Modifications for Common Yoga Poses with Bursitis 
• Language That Reduces The Threat to the Nervous System
• Building Capacity Through Exposure, and
• When to Refer Students to Medical Professionals 

Teaching students with bursitis is absolutely within your scope when you understand the modern pain science behind their experience, offer intelligent modifications using language that reduces threat, and know when to refer for additional support.

Resources Mentioned:

Free: Rotator Cuff Injury Training  - Comprehensive shoulder anatomy and modification strategies

The First Step to Teaching Students with Pain ($34) - Foundational skills for working with any injured student

Teaching Students with Injuries Mentorship  - Ongoing support for real students in real time

 Related Episodes:

Ep 114: How to Teach Yoga to Students with Lower Back Pain

Ep 116: Students With Wrist Pain In Your Yoga Classes?

Ep 72: When to Refer Out: Recognizing the Limits of Your Scope

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