What is Pilates, and why is it appropriate for rehab?

 

Using Pilates for rehabilitation works for many reasons. The great attention to detail and form is a perfect way for a client to gain strength in the weaker or injured muscles and joints. Pilates is gentle on the joints, so there is little worry of over stressing an already stressed body. It also develops the smaller muscle groups that work to support joints and bony structures, and because Pilates builds a bodily awareness to balance, chronically weak and imbalanced muscles become equally strong.

 

Pilates as rehabilitation is also great preventative medicine. The Pilates principle of core stabilization addresses posture, muscle performance and motor control – the same concepts that form the basis of most orthopaedic rehabilitation and therapy.

 

Pilates is an excellent rehabilitation system, especially for;
 

• Neck and back injuries
• Shoulder injuries and tendonitis
• Hip injuries and bursitis
• Ankle injuries
• Knee injuries and total knee/hip replacements
• Sciatica
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Parkinson's Disease
• Fibromyalgia
• Scoliosis
• Repetitive stress injuries

 

A holistic approach is used to address the body's imbalances, and to treat the root of the problem, correcting asymmetries and chronic weaknesses to prevent re-injury and bring the body back in balance.

 

Pilates is a full body conditioning program, developed in the 1920's by Joseph Pilates. His emphasis was focused on professional dancers and athletes, who often sustained injuries that resulted in disabilities that prevented them from continuing their current professions. This revolutionary program of Pilates focuses on training the mind and body to work together more effectively and efficiently.
 
Pilates can dramatically transform the way the body looks, feels, and performs. It incorporates modern exercise science and rehabilitation principles, eliminating contraindicated movements while emphasizing neutral alignment, core stability and peripheral mobility. It builds strength without excess bulk, creating a sleek, toned body and a flat abdomen. It teaches body awareness, good posture and easy, graceful movement. Pilates improves flexibility, agility and economy of motion. Pilates is a safe form of movement making it optimal for clients that need to rehabilitate injuries.

 

Pilates exercises train several muscle groups at once in smooth, continuous movements. By developing proper technique, clients can actually re-train their body to move in safer, more efficient patterns of motion - invaluable for injury recovery, good posture and optimal health. No other exercise system is so gentle to the body while giving it a challenging workout. Many of the exercises are performed in reclining or sitting positions, and most are low impact and partially weight bearing.