This pose actually tones your spinal nerves and can improve your digestion. However, most beginners move into the pose too quickly, do not utilize the correct alignment and then cannot benefit from the health benefits of the asana.
To avoid this error, add in a simple transition pose between when your feet are spread apart/toes turned out and before you open your chest up and extend your arms apart.
All you need to do is slide your torso to the right directly over the right leg, bending from the hip joint, not the waist.
Then, extend your arms out and enjoy the rewards of this position.