Pilates for Injury Rehabilitation

Pilates is one of the fastest growing exercises in the world. Millions have experienced the physical fitness benefits of reduced pain and added strength, length, and agility that it provides by promoting an even musculature through the strengthening of the body’s core and by stressing spinal and pelvic alignment. This is why Pilates has become the go-to exercise program for injury rehabilitation.

What causes injuries?
Many injuries are caused by muscular imbalances within our bodies. And many things cause these imbalances – our posture, the way we walk, bend over, sit, lie down, or work. Most of us move incorrectly in some way or another, which puts too much pressure on some muscles and weakens others, causing an imbalance.
A Flexible Form of Rehab:
Pilates provides a greater degree of flexibility than most conventional forms of physical therapy. This is true because Pilates exercises can be modified for each person and still be extremely effective. You can go from basic movements to very advanced, depending on how a patient needs to progress or how badly they are injured.
Conventional physical therapy, on the other hand, often involves patients being given a set of exercises that may be too hard for them to tolerate. This may be because they cause too much pain, or perhaps they are not aware of how to correctly position their body for maximum results – something that Pilates teaches you to do.
Positive Movement Experiences:
Pilates creates a positive movement experience… one where you are able to take a step forward without pain. The more you move without pain, the more confidence you gain. And the more confidence you gain, the more likely you are to try another movement or exercise. That’s a very healthy rehabilitative cycle that is the key for long-term success.
Rehab vs. Conventional Exercise:
If you have injured yourself and are considering Pilates, it’s important to make sure that your instructor has physical therapy training/experience. There’s a big difference between teaching Pilates as a form of exercise and using it as form of therapy. The principles of Pilates are incredible for rehabilitation, but if they aren’t used in conjunction with proper therapy techniques it could aggravate the injury. Before you start, make sure you ask your instructor if he or she has physical therapy training/experience. With Pilates, you are on your way to a happier, healthier you!
For more information contact Complete Pilates & Fitness at 661-208-8900 or visit www.completepilatesfitness.com.