The Impact of Pilates On Symptoms Of Lower Back Pain

Lower back pain represents one of the primary complaints heard by those managing chronic pain conditions. Our lower back experiences notable stress and strain as part of our daily activities. These stresses are often aggravated by those failing to use proper body mechanics when lifting or exhibiting poor posture while spending long hours sitting down. Pilates is effective in helping those struggling with lower back pain by strengthening the muscles associated with that area. Below we will explore the benefits of pilates for patients struggling with lower back pain.

 

Understanding The Impact of Pilates On Symptoms Of Lower Back Pain

Pilates is a form of exercise involving the muscles of the lower back and abdomen, known as the core. These exercises are done lying on your back or side and lifting the legs in various ways to work the abovementioned muscles. Lower back pain management has long included various medications, from painkillers to muscle relaxers. However, including pilates in treating this pain can help reduce the reliance on these medications and even eliminate the pain in some patients. Further, the emphasis on mindful movement, flexibility, and core strength found in pilates strongly contributes to the management of lower back pain.

 

These three aspects of pilates contribute in the following ways:

• Core Strengthening – Your body’s powerhouse is often considered your core, which consists of the muscles of your lower back and abdomen. Strengthening this area helps ensure that the lower back is properly supported, alleviating feelings of strain and easing lower back pain over time.
• Improved Flexibility – Our core is engaged in almost every motion we make. Pilates enhances flexibility in these muscles by promoting elongation. When these muscles are strengthened, it reduces the strain and tension that can occur as part of everyday movements. This enhances a feeling of stability and general feelings of mobility.
• Improved Posture – The development and persistence of pain in our lower back can often be aggravated by poor posture. Practicing pilates encourages us to be more aware of how our body is aligned and has the long-term benefit of improving posture and reducing the wear and tear that can result from bad posture.

 

If you’re considering introducing pilates to your regimen, make sure you consult with your medical professionals first. While the benefits of pilates cannot be denied, the motions can cause problems for those struggling with lower back pain. With the guidance of the Delaware Valley & Spine team, we can provide methods of safely including pilates in your lower back pain treatment routine.

 

Take A Step Towards A Pain-Free Life With Pilates

There has been a strong movement towards moving away from medication as a primary treatment for chronic pain. Ongoing studies have revealed that combining medication with treatment plans that focus on strengthening the body can be effective for many chronic pain sources. While there is no such thing as a panacea for lower back pain, pilates can provide a meaningful benefit to those suffering from it. Call us today at (215) 489-9170 or visit our offices in Chalfont, PA, to get started.