Pilates is a form of low-impact exercise that helps to target underutilized muscle groups and improve structural imbalances in the body. Because of this, it should come as no surprise that Pilates is oftentimes a great form of physical therapy for individuals recovering from surgery or injuries. Below, we explain why Pilates can be so helpful for certain types of injuries, and we explain how the programs we offer at OrthRehab Specialists can help speed up your recovery.
Pilates is a lot like yoga, but Pilates tends to focus more attention on a person’s core. This means it can be the perfect solution for patients dealing with back injuries, hip or pelvic pain, thigh issues or other core-related muscle imbalances. Many times we don’t even realize that discomfort in these areas are related to muscle imbalances or posture issues, and all it takes is a short therapy program to help address these issues and get you back to full health.
If you’re considering jumping into a Pilates routine to help with your discomfort, make sure that you do so with the assistance of a physical therapist. Although the general principles of the activity are similar, there is a big difference between performing Pilates for exercise or for rehabilitation. If you’re not careful, you could actually end up making the condition worse. That’s where a physical therapist comes in.
We can evaluate your medical condition and assess which muscle groups need to be strengthened. From there, we’ll develop a Pilates program that targets these areas without overloading them with stress. As you progress through your routine, we can adjust your therapy so you’re ready to face new challenges.
Pilates Equipment At OrthoRehab Specialists
Pilates can be performed without the aid of equipment, but there are a few machines that make the exercises easier or help to enhance your ability to perform the moves. Equipment available at our clinics include:
- Pilates Reformer – One of if not the most popular Pilates machine, a reformer is a piece of equipment that helps patients better understand their muscle efficiency and their body awareness in space. Using this machine helps you understand the proper movement positions, and in turn learn where some deficiencies are in your body.
- Core Aligner – As the name implies, a core aligner helps patients practice proper posture and works to stabilize key core muscles. This machine focuses on correcting dysfunctional movement and body positioning.
- Pilates Chair – This simple piece of equipment helps patients improve balance and posture by making it easier to perform certain seated movements.
- Pilates Cadillac – This top of the line machine allows the patients to undertake a number of different movements to improve balance, strength, flexibility and coordination. To get the most out of it, make sure your exercises are guided with the help of a certified physical therapist.
For more information about how Pilates can help with your condition, or to set up an appointment with one of our therapists, reach out to OrthoRehab Specialists today.
PT of Costa Rican National Soccer Team for 2007 World Cup in Victoria, CAN. Clinical Instructor for University of Minnesota Doctor of Physical Therapy Affiliations
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