Hyperextended vs Straight Elbows in Yoga
Let's chat about the elbows, specifically, what is hyperextension. Hyperextension simply means the joint goes beyond its normal range of motion.
This blog is part of a series:
click here here for more visuals and info on elbow hyperextension in yoga
click here to read a strap trick for hypermobile elbows in yoga
hyper as a prefix means:
over; beyond; above
exceeding
excessively; above normal.
(You might recognize these common words that use the prefix "hyper:" hyperthyroidism, hyperthermia, hyperactive & hyperventilate)
Essentially, an elbow can be bent, it can be straight or it can be hyperextended. Below you'll find images so you can see exactly the difference between a hyperextended elbow and a straight elbow.
(Note: I didn't include images of a bent elbow as I assume you can visualize that in your mind's eye pretty easily.)
An elbow in hyperextension
elbow hyperextension close up
Did you notice when looking at the above images that the elbow almost looks bent but in the wrong direction?
Hyperextension can exist to varying degrees. Sometimes it can be more severe as in the images above or it may only be only slightly beyond straight.
There is absolutely nothing "wrong" with you if you have hyperextension, but there are some things to consider when practicing which I'll address in my next blog.
Straight elbows (not bent, not hyperextended)
Close up of a straight elbow. There is no hyperextension in this joint.
Enhancing practice through education that elevates.
Explore: Wild Thing School of Yoga / Wild Thing Photography / Instagram
Copyright © 2021 Wild Thing Photography and School of Yoga, LLC. All rights reserved.
Photography Credit: Wild Thing Photography
Model: Sarah Oviatt @thatteacheryogi; Lana @lanareedsparklyunicorn