Pilates Machines Help With Back Pain
Whether you have back pain or want to prevent it, pilates is an effective exercise that can help strengthen your core muscles and improve your posture. It also increases the awareness of your spinal alignment, which can make you aware when you are hunching or slumping into one hip and can help you correct it right away.
Pilates can be performed on the mat or on a variety of pilate machines equipment including the Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair and Ped-o-Pull. However, it is important to work with a certified instructor who can evaluate your needs and guide you through an appropriate program for your back condition.
The core muscles in the spine need to be strong in order to protect and support the back and spinal discs. When the core is weak, this can put strain on the lumbar vertebrae that can lead to lower back pain or sciatica. Pilates teaches the core to move in all directions – flexion, lateral bending, rotation and extension, which takes stress off of the lumbar vertebrae and helps prevent injuries.
The key to success with pilates is maintaining trunk stability or what is called the “neutral spine principle.” It’s necessary for long term spine health. Pilates builds the core muscles and teaches them to control their movement in different positions, but you’ll have to spend some time doing load bearing exercises (like walking) outside of your pilates classes to build strength beyond what can be accomplished in a class setting.
Can Pilates Machines Help With Back Pain?
While there is a great deal of evidence that exercise can reduce back pain, it is important to understand that not all exercises are the same. Pilates is a low impact, controlled exercise that can be tailored to different needs and is very helpful in strengthening the core and improving posture. It also provides a good stretch of the hip flexors and hamstrings to decompress the spine and improve overall joint mobility.
Another benefit of Pilates is that it can help with dysmenorrhea, or painful menstrual periods. Studies have shown that women who practice yoga and Pilates report less discomfort during their periods than those who don’t participate in these forms of exercise.
As with any fitness activity, it’s best to start with a gentle exercise and gradually increase intensity as your body adapts. You’ll need to speak with a certified Pilates instructor at Eastside Ideal Health to get started and to discuss your specific needs and goals.
For more information on how clinical Pilates can help relieve your back pain, contact us to book a free consultation with one of our expert instructors. Or check out our schedule of pilates classes, where you can search by apparatus and level. You’re sure to find the perfect class for you. We look forward to seeing you soon!
One of the main advantages of the Reformer is its versatility. It can be used for a wide range of exercises targeting different areas of the body, including the core, arms, legs, and back. The resistance can be adjusted to suit the individual’s level of strength and flexibility, making it suitable for beginners and advanced practitioners alike. The Reformer can be used to improve posture, build strength, enhance flexibility, and aid in rehabilitation by providing a low-impact alternative to more traditional forms of exercise.
