Pilates for Low Back Pain
If you suffer from back pain, you're not alone. Back pain is one of the most common reasons for missed work and the second most common reason for doctor's visits. While there are many treatments available for back pain, Reformer Pilates has emerged as a popular and effective option.
What is Reformer Pilates?
Reformer Pilates is a form of exercise that uses a machine called a reformer to perform a series of movements designed to improve strength, flexibility, and balance. The reformer is a bed-like frame with a flat platform that moves back and forth on wheels. It also has adjustable springs and straps that can be used to modify the resistance and difficulty of the exercises.
How can Reformer Pilates help with back pain?
Reformer Pilates can be an effective way to alleviate back pain because it focuses on strengthening the core muscles that support the spine. When these muscles are weak, the spine is more susceptible to injury and pain. By strengthening the core muscles, Reformer Pilates can help improve posture and reduce the strain on the back.
Additionally, Reformer Pilates can help improve flexibility and range of motion, which can also contribute to reducing back pain. Tight muscles can put additional pressure on the spine and cause pain. By improving flexibility, Reformer Pilates can help reduce this pressure and alleviate pain.
We have been running Reformer Pilates classes out of our Seaforth studio for over 6 months now and have seen huge benefits for many of our patients. Our classes at Active Answers Health are run by qualified Physiotherapists and Clinical Pilates Trained instructors. We always keep our classes to a maximum of 4 people to 1 instructor.
What are some Reformer Pilates exercises for back pain?
There are many Reformer Pilates exercises that can be beneficial for back pain, but it's important to work with a qualified instructor who can tailor a program to your specific needs. Here are a few exercises that are commonly recommended for back pain:
Pelvic Curl or Bridge
- Lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the platform.
- Place your arms by your sides with your palms facing down.
- Inhale and press your feet into the platform to lift your hips off the platform.
- Exhale and roll your spine back down to the mat.
Spine Stretch Forward
- Sit on the platform with your legs extended in front of you and your feet flexed.
- Hold the straps with your arms extended in front of you.
- Inhale and sit up tall.
- Exhale and reach forward, keeping your spine long.
Side Arm Series
- Lie on your side with your legs extended and your feet flexed.
- Place your top hand on the platform in front of you and hold the strap with your bottom hand.
- Inhale and lift your top leg.
- Exhale and lower your leg, keeping your core engaged.
It is very important that these exercises are done within your limitations. Everybody has a different level of strength and mobility, so do not complete these exercises if they are causing pain. Please reach out to one of our team at Active Answers Physio in Seaforth and we can help you out.
Reformer Pilates can be an effective way to alleviate back pain by strengthening core muscles, improving flexibility, and reducing pressure on the spine. If you suffer from back pain, consider working with a qualified Reformer Pilates instructor to develop a personalised program that can help you feel better and move more freely.
Our boutique Reformer Pilates classes are located in Seaforth at Active Answers Health.
Address is 1-3 Burnt Street, Seaforth.
If you are interested in giving it a try book a session below or give us a call and we can let you know more about it
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