Therapeutic Pilates at Pilates flow
Therapeutic Pilates is led by a registered physiotherapist. We assess the whole body, including posture and movement patterns to find the specific causes of symptoms. Our aim is to educate clients about their body, and to give them the tools to self-manage and prevent further injury.
Therapeutic Pilates emphasises the clinical application of Pilates’ original exercises, supported by evidence-based research, and is ideal for those suffering from both acute injuries and ongoing chronic pain. With the use of Pilates apparatus, clients can continue to exercise without pain while rehabilitating the injured site. This whole body approach prevents unnecessary de-conditioning and further injury.
A therapeutic session consists of Pilates-based exercise programmes using balanced movement, as well as flexibility and strengthening exercises, to aid recovery and prevent recurrence. Programmes also emphasise movement and postural re-education. Where necessary, the physiotherapist may include some manual therapies, such as massage and mobilisation in the session.
Some Therapeutic Pilates sessions may be subsidised by ACC – please discuss this with the instructor when you make your appointment.
Following individual Therapeutic Pilates sessions, clients can progress to fully supervised small group (max. 3 people) sessions to continue their individual rehabilitation programme. Home exercise programmes are also provided.
Having rehabilitated from injuries, clients are encouraged to continue their Pilates training by joining the Classical Flow health and fitness well being/fitness sessions to integrate Pilates into their lifestyle and prevent future injuries.
Physiotherapy and Therapeutic Pilates focus on three different phases of movement, to promote fast and effective recovery.
They are:
1. First stage physical work:
- Assistive movement: with the assistance of equipment the patient can decrease any muscle guarding often associated with pain or weakness.
- Disassociation: allows movement at the hip or shoulder girdle, away from the area of pain and independent of pelvis or spinal movement.
- Stabilisation: the recruitment of deep stabilisers, pelvic floor muscles, deep abdominal and spinal muscles. Stabilisation provides a favourable environment for protecting further trauma to the spine.
- Mobilisation: the restoration of mobility to joints and muscles.
2. Progression to more dynamic exercises: challenging the newly acquired mobility or stability in a more functional, gravity dependant environment.
3. Functional re-education: day to day tasks are reintroduced in a clinical environment for return to work or sport.