In today's times, Pilates is a frequently used treatment technique used by physiotherapists or recommended by doctors to treat various types of chronic pain which is usually over 3 months. Chronic pain is the term used to describe prolonged painful episodes where pain signals travels to the brain resulting to an over-sensitised region of the body.
First off, it would be wise to seek a clearance from a physician or doctor before starting any exercise to make sure the root of the pain is assessed. This would in return help the Pilates instructor understand the root of problem and able to recommend or modify exercises to help relieve the pain. The doctor may work with the Pilates instructor to develop an exercise programme that promotes the bone and musculature health and ensure both are working on the same direction.
Pilates as a form of exercise to help manage or relieve pain. Some common pain that Pilates can help would be back pain, shoulder and neck pain, joints or any post-traumatic injury to the body. Individuals who also have pain due to misalignment of the bones such as scoliosis, intervertebral disc degeneration, herniated discs or even pre or post natal can benefit with Pilates as the aim is to find the neutral alignment of spine.
Pilates is an effective way to address the underlying structural imbalances of the body that leads to pain. Most body pain are connected to weak core, instability of the pelvis, muscular imbalances, lack of postural and body awareness. These are all issues that Pilates can help improve.
Given the delicate health of those with pain, it is recommended to start with gentle and basic Pilates movements to make sure that the fundamental alignment, core support, balance and coordination is supervised. There should be a good level of understanding on neutral alignment and how to strengthen the deep core muscles to improve strength, flexibility and suppleness of the muscles. A heightened awareness of the correct movement will help prevent "old habits” that caused the pain from coming back.
Those with significant pain or trauma to the body may benefit from one-on-one Pilates sessions with a qualified Pilates instructor first to ensure correct form and alignment. There is definitely more investment when it comes to time, money and effort but it will be all worth it. If an exercise is performed incorrectly, it can do more harm than good. You not only waste your time and effort but the body will continue to regress and unable to develop "new habits" to ease the pain.
Some simple steps to get you started on Pain Management-
Don't be afraid to ask for help - Realising you need to get help (apart from Google) is probably one of the hardest things to get started
Go to a doctor for an assessment - Ask your friends or family or find a reputable doctor for recommendation. First-hand knowledge is usually a safe option.
Doctor's clearance - Once you understand the root of the problem, ask your doctor if you can do your maintenance exercises by taking Pilates.
Find a qualified Pilates Instructor - It would be best to find a post-rehabilitation-based Pilates Instructor and have a sense check of their capabilities. It would be helpful to also share your doctor's findings.
Maintain your regiment - Park time to do Pilates 2-3x a week for your body to regain mobility and strength. This where the real task is as maintenance requires determination and re-assessing your priorities.
Patience it the key! Rome was not built in a day!
Made To Move Studio has a range of instructors with credentials in Post-Rehabilitation, Manual Therapy and Sports Massage to help you regain your body awareness, strength and mobility.Managing pain is already hard enough but you will find that it is a space made for healing with their cozy and warm ambiance.
Share your concerns by emailing hello@madetomovestudio.sg and we can match you to our qualified instructors. You are definitely in the right hands!
Made To Move Studio is located at Balmoral Plaza, 271 Bukit Timah Road, #04-10 Singapore 259708.
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