Mild, severe, chronic or temporary low-back pain (LBP) is among the most preventable pain syndromes in our society. Approximately 80 percent of the population experienced an episode of LBP at some point in their lives.

Pain in the lumbar spine can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury, aging, excercise habits, weight gain and work-related accidents. For some, bed rest, reduced activity and anti-inflammatory medications solve the problem. However there's about 60 percent recurrence of LBP in patients within one year of the initial episode. At times, the pain may be so overwhelming that it interferes with activities of daily living and may even contribute to depression.

Research indicates that incorporating medically supervised Pilates into an individualized rehabilitation program can generate positive results for some patients with LBP. However, because back pain is highly personal and not all patients are candidates, a thorough patient history and clinical evaluation is essential before beginning any rehab program.  

Pilates is and experiential, mind-body experience. Through carefully synchronized movements, patients can develop their core muscles (those closest to the spine) to give them the strength and stability to participate in daily activities. Since these muscles are small, triggering them requires developing patient awareness through deep breathing and visualization. Isometric muscle sequencing, strong verbal cueing and appropriate tactile touch are also used to help patients focus and activate these deep core muscles. Emphasis is placed on proper posture and spinal positioning. Teaching patients to "unweight" the disks of the spine in a sitting position is a primary goal.

At our outpatient rehabilitation clinic, we help patients learn how to feel the articulation of the ball and socket joints and deep core firing of the muscles. A quiet, private setting free of distractions; specialized equipment; and the use of mirrors is essential. Patients are asked to visualize inflating their disks as they exhale. Mentally, this puts space between the disks. Once patients can "see" and feel the deep core firing, results increase.

Exercise intensity for the low-back muscles is progressively increased as a patient gains strength and spinal flexibility. As part of the program, patients are also given customized home exercises designed to build upon their instruction at the clinic.

If you would like to learn more about the medically supervised Pilates program at PBGMC, Please call 561-776-8585.