Pilates has grown over the last decade to become one of the most popular exercise programs. It differs from other forms of exercise in its ability to strengthen the core muscles and promote physical fitness through less strenuous activity. Because of the techniques and exercises involved with pilates, it has become a beneficial practice for those with chronic pain and lower back pain. As an effective means for managing pain, we’re here to describe some of the benefits of pilates exercises and how they can promote overall physical well-being.
How Pilates Can Be Used For Lower Back Pain Management
Lower back pain, regardless of its intensity, can pose challenges for people trying to participate in daily activities. While traditional treatment methods often rely heavily on medication to manage pain, alternative approaches to pain, such as pilates, can also provide relief alone or in combination with other treatments.
Pilates emphasizes mindful movements, core strength, and enhanced flexibility to improve physical well-being and overall wellness. For people with chronic lower back pain, pilates can be beneficial in several ways:
- Core Strength and Stability: Pilates targets the deep muscles, including the abdominal, back, and pelvic floor, strengthening them over time. As a form of exercise, it supports the spine and promotes proper alignment, relieving the muscles and joints.
- Flexibility and Range of Motion: Chronic lower back pain is often associated with tighter muscles and a limited range of motion. Pilates exercises emphasize lengthening and stretching the muscles to improve flexibility.
- Body Awareness and Posture: Pilates also encourages body awareness and proper alignment during movements. Through concentrating on these exercises, people can develop better posture and movement patterns, reducing strain on affected areas like the lower back and minimizing pain triggers.
- Gentle, Low-Impact Movement: Pilates exercises are low-impact, making them highly usable for those with chronic pain who need a gentler approach to exercise. These controlled movements align the body to properly support them during their exercise and thus can reduce exasperated pain.
- Reduces Stress: Pilates is a form of exercise that helps reduce stress and tension in the body. It works to calm the nervous system through breathing techniques, promoting relaxation and thus can contribute to pain relief.
While pilates can be done at home, it is highly recommended that pilates be practiced under a qualified instructor’s guidance, especially for people with chronic pain. Pilates exercises can be tailored to a person’s health needs, and movements can be modified when needed to ensure proper form and technique that works for them.
Managing Lower Back Pain With Pilates
If you’re looking for a supportive, understanding environment where you can explore potential options for chronic lower back pain management, then visit us! At Pain Management Services, our team under Dr. Calvin Cajigal, MD, can provide exceptional pain management solutions and personalize your treatment plans to help you gain the most out of your chronic pain management. For more information, call (314) 821-8644 or visit our Ballwin, MO, location today.
