Will Pilates Help My Back Pain?
The Pilates Method was originally developed as a comprehensive rehabilitation program for a wide range of ailments and injuries, with specific exercises designed for every part of the body’s musculoskeletal system. So, the simple answer is: yes.
In most cases, Pilates will help to alleviate back pain and, more importantly, it will help to prevent pain and injury from occurring in the first place.
It’s important to note that there are two methods of practicing Pilates: Mat and Apparatus. Mat Pilates is comprised of a series of core focused exercises done on a mat, usually in a group setting. Apparatus Pilates is a system of exercises done on various pieces of equipment – the most widely used being the Reformer. While there are some mat exercises that may be beneficial for back pain, the support provided by the Reformer would be a safer approach.
One of the main goals of Pilates is to strengthen the intrinsic musculature – or deep muscles.
The intrinsic muscles are the muscles that are closest to the bone, and are therefore key in supporting the structure of the spine.
When these muscles are weak there is more pressure and stress on the spine.
3 Important Things To Know About Pilates:
Intrinsic muscle awareness fosters good form and posture, alleviating stress on joints, ligaments, and discs to properly support the body’s daily movements.
It takes time, patience and practice to learn to engage deep musculature. Pilates requires a subtle attention to detail.
Intrinsic muscles feel different. Where the large muscles offer obvious ‘burn factor’ feedback, deep muscles require a more subtle awareness. This is where the mind/body connection comes into play. Pilates works best when you are centered and grounded.
In a culture where many of us spend a large part of our day sitting, it’s no wonder that we’ve lost some consciousness around body awareness and as a result more and more people are experiencing back pain.
Pilates will help you to develop a more conscious awareness of how you are in motion, and in stillness.
