The Pilates Stigma.

Weather you have reoccurring lower back pain or you are recovering from having a baby Clinical Pilates is an ideal method to rehabilitate and reduced pain. I stress the word “clinical” because this form of Pilates is important in getting the best results for people who start out with physical dysfunction.

It has been quite well published in the media that Pilates is a great avenue to recovery from pain and injury. However, what some people fail to realise is that there is a difference in the type of Pilates you do.

Basically, there are two forms. There is Fitness Pilates and there is Clinical Pilates. The main differences are;

Fitness Pilates:

• Usually in a gym setting, or where there is a lot of space.
• Exercises are done on mats in large classes.
• Personal trainers with Pilates training are often the instructors.
• No individual physical assessment.
• Exercises are not specific to the individual, rather cater for general population.
• Great for increasing flexibility and core strength.
• Not specific enough for people who have a prior complaint or pain.

Clinical Pilates:

• Typically, one on one or small groups of 3 people.
• Exercises are done on equipment which provides better control and quality of movement.
• Health practitioners, such as Osteopaths, are typically instructing the session.
• Each patient is individually assessed for strengths and weaknesses prior to sessions.
• Exercises are specific to the individual.
• Excellent in maintaining flexibility and inner core stability.
• Ideal for reducing pain and rehabilitating after injuries.

When I speak with patients about the Pilates benefit for their complaint they often respond with “I’ve done it before and it made me worse!” This comment always prompts me to find out more about where and how they went about their Pilates. Usually, the patient has injured themselves at the gym or doing matt work in large groups. Now, I’m not saying that all Pilate’s classes at gyms are “bad”. For the generally fit person with no significant history of pain or dysfunction these classes are wonderful. What does concern me is people who do have history of pain or dysfunction believe if they do a class called “Pilates” they should feel better. This is often not the case.

When you have a physical dysfunction you most definitely require a qualified health practitioner to asses you and give you the correct exercises. Working together with your health care professional ensures you will avoid further injury and learn the best exercises suitable to you. Quite often during assessments, I find, there are certain positions and exercises my patients should avoid or they start to deteriorate. This can not be achieved in a large group setting.

The other main problem is how you are doing your exercises. Pilate’s equipment is specifically designed to allow correct, supported and controlled movements whatever your complaint is. In contrast, matt work on the floor requires more control and understanding of technique otherwise injury is likely.

So, before you rule out Pilates because it “made you worse” consider speaking with a qualified “Clinical” Pilate’s instructor. I guarantee you’ll feel the difference. 

Dr. Angela Newton