What is Clinical Pilates
“Clinical pilates” is a modified form of therapeutic exercise used by physiotherapists to assist in the rehabilitation and prevention of musculoskeletal injury. Specialised pilates equipment such as reformers and trapeze tables may be used in addition to fit-ball and floor exercises.
A major focus is placed on developing strength of “core stability” muscles such as the deep abdominal and pelvic floor muscles. This is accompanied by an emphasis on postural education and facilitating optimal biomechanics.
Who can benefit from Clinical Pilates?
People with musculoskeletal pain or injury, especially lower back pain, sacro-iliac pain and neck pain
•particularly if symptoms are recurrent or chronic
•especially if there are motor control problems
•may include post surgical strengthening e.g. lower back, sacroiliac joint, hip, shoulder, neck
Pre-natal and post-natal women
•increase pelvic floor strength/control, prevention and relief of lower back and pelvic pain, for body reshaping and toning
People with postural problems
•increase awareness, strength and flexibility e.g. shoulder, thoracic, neck, headache
People wanting to improve fitness or sporting ability
•prevent injury and enhance performance, ballet dancers, footballers and netballer are three groups who have benefited immensely in the past
•increase muscle strength, flexibility and tone as well as stability and balance which is needed in many sports
