‘Can Pilates help me recover from an illness or injury, or indeed ease pains associated with more long term medical conditions?’ is a question that I am asked frequently.
In short, the answer is yes; in many instances Pilates is very beneficial to those recovering from particular medical treatments, injuries or indeed looking to ease pains associated with common long-term medical conditions.
But always remember, when embarking on any such Pilates programme you must work personally with a highly qualified Pilates instructor who understands your condition, can answer any questions you will have and can monitor your progress.
Before outlining a number of medical conditions or injuries can be improved trough specific Pilates routines, let’s first recap on physical principles associated with Pilates.
Pilates is based on three physical principles
- – ‘Core stabilization’,
- – Neutral pelvis/shoulder girdle and spine
- – Working the body uniformly
As a result Pilates is a recognized form of rehabilitative care.
What medical conditions or injuries can benefit from professional Pilates programmes?
There are many conditions that can benefit from professional Pilates programmes.
Pilates has for instance, been particularly successful in easing pain or aiding recuperation for those who suffer with the following medical conditions:
- – Lower back pain
- – Pelvic pain
- – Pubic Symphysis Disorder
- – Hamstring/Groin Strains
- – Osteoporosis
- – Scoliosis
- – Prenatal care
- – Postnatal care
Considerations for any Pilates recuperation programme
Again, I must stress that the safest recommendation of working with Pilates to rehabilitate any condition is to work personally with a highly qualified Pilates instructor – optimally with dedicated Pilates machines to allow for any added assistance or resistance as required.
Pilates for rehabilitation, should be a personalized dedicated process, where attention to technique and detail is paramount.
Working with the premise of ’8 loadable joints’ all movement should be:
- Performed from the inside out – with the core set and ready to protect and support the spine prior to movement
- Performed With due attention to joint and postural position with focus and precision
- Functional taking body balance (front /back right/ left) and the effects of the activities of every day (ADL’s) living into account
Long term benefits of Pilates
While you should feel the benefits of a planned Pilates programme very quickly, once your rehabilitation programme is complete and you are confident in your new-found core strength and balanced body, a group class is a great way to maintain your gains and keep discomfort/pain at bay.
If you have a specific question or medical condition and would like to know more about how Pilates may help you, drop me an email to joyce@bodyfirmpilates.com and I will respond to you in strictest confidence.
“A few well-designed set of movements, properly performed in a balanced sequence, are worth hours of doing sloppy calisthenics or forced contortion.” – Joseph Pilates
Click here to find out more about Prenatal Pilates classes at Bodyfirm Pilates
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