In recent times Pilates has gained a lot of ground among fitness gurus and those seeking to improve core strength and rehabilitation. This form of non-impact exercise was designed by Joseph Pilates, a German who whilst working in England in early 20th century used these techniques on a variety of injured athletes and dancers. His goal was to enable his patients to improve strength and movement, whilst injured.
Today, Clinical Pilates has become a major tool used by physiotherapists to treat shoulder, spine, hip, knee and ankle injuries as well as whiplash, post polio syndrome, spina bifida, stroke and even post surgical patients.
Why Physiotherapists are Incorporating the Principle of Pilates in their Practice
Clinical Pilates exercises utilise the traditional rehabilitation principles of stability first and then mobility. They also emphasise postural alignment, body awareness and functional fitness all aspects physiotherapists know are key to a successful rehabilitation outcome.
Many physiotherapists are certified in Clinical Pilates and pass on its benefits to their patients. Patients learn how to use the right muscles to perform the desired function and to maintain posture. This leads to improved body alignment, improved efficiency of movement resulting in reduced injury risks.
When used with conjunction with traditional physiotherapy, clinical pilates aims to bring faster and better relief to those who are suffering from pain and limited range of motion due to an injury. After a thorough assessment of your posture and alignment, we help you maintain a neutral shoulder and spine throughout the series of exercises, key elements in Clinical Pilates exercises philosophy.
Activities like lifting, pulling and pushing heavy items, tucking in one’s shirt or hooking one’s bra become manageable as pain disappears and range of motion improves. Exercises follow to help you to regain strength and function.
This treatment makes use of machines that are different from those used in traditional rehabilitation. Clinical pilates equipment promotes a better workout by engaging a complete range of muscles working in combination. The machines give feedback that provide more self-control and body awareness.
Pilates has been around for many years however Clinical Pilates has been developed by physiotherapists to help patients overcome pain, regain function and strength in a safe and efficient manner. Inexpensive and simple equipment options can be supplied that allow the benefits to continue into the home once the basics have been mastered.
Speak with one of our professional team of physiotherapists today about how we can help you by contacting Physioworks at the following locations:
