By: Special Advertising Section October 9, 2015
Q: How can Pilates-based physical therapy help back pain?
A: Patients with pain stemming from excessive movement and degeneration of the intervertebral discs and joints will likely benefit from a Pilates exercise program.
Pilates improves strength, flexibility, and suppleness of the muscles of the hip and shoulder. With supported movement through these joints, there is better alignment and less chance of back pain.
In addition, the Pilates program teaches awareness of movements and excessive tension that may stress the spine. It also decreases wear and tear resulting from uneven stresses on the interverterbral joints and discs. Pilates helps patients change or modify habits that may be attributing to increased pain.
Pilates-based physical therapy promotes awareness of neutral alignment of the spine, helps strengthen deep postural muscles, and teaches ways to use the body efficiently.
A gentle way to combat back pain, Pilates can be effective in preventing back injury and may also be used as a fitness routine to maintain progress.