How many of us have experienced back pain? Maybe only for a short period or maybe you suffer from long term back pain, during pregnancy or post pregnancy. Sedentary lifestyle. It can be really weakening.
Out of our regular Pilates practitioners at BeFit Pilates, around 90% members mentioned back pain issues. That is a lot of people! The causes of pain vary but 95% are caused by non specific lower back pain (a generic term for nothing serious). Although having said this when you have prolonged pain or suffering caused by back pain it may seem more serious and despairing. Being as active as you can in your day to day activities , using pain relief during acute flare ups of pain.
For more long term management and maintenance, keeping back pain at bay, Pilates has been shown to be very effective. There are numerous studies that show the effects Pilates has on back pain. The important principles of Pilates are-
Consistent with an exercise program that promotes back health. In particular, learning awareness of neutral alignment of the spine and strengthening the deep postural muscles that support this alignment are important skills for the back pain patient.
Pilates improves strength, flexibility, and suppleness of the muscles of the hip and shoulder girdle. Fluid and supported movement through these joints helps prevent unnecessary torque on the vertebral column.
The Pilates program also teaches awareness of movement habits that may stress the spine, and helps the patient change these habits to those that preserve neutral alignment. Awareness of excessive tension and the use of proper focus helps the patient use the body efficiently.
But before starting with Pilates routine every Individual should take into consideration that the issue will benefit from several one-on-one Pilates sessions with a qualified Pilates instructor.