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Pilates program may improve function in patients with chronic musculoskeletal conditions
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Patients with chronic musculoskeletal conditions experienced better function and were able to more effectively and independently manage their condition if they participated in a Pilates based exercise program, according to data published in Musculoskeletal Care.
Lynne E. Gaskell and colleagues divided 22 participants with chronic musculoskeletal conditions participating in a Pilates based exercise program across three North-west of England physiotherapy clinics into four focus groups. Researchers collected data via digital recordings, which was transcribed and analyzed using a thematic framework.
Twelve participants had completed a 12-week Pilates program and seven participants had completed over 12 months of classes, according to study results. Researchers observed improvements in core strength from performing Pilates exercises that carried over to function in everyday life. Data also showed participants had increased flexibility and reduction of stiffness when carrying out everyday activities, as well as improved balance and an overall increase in feelings of wellbeing and vitality. Participants reported improvements in posture and overall bodily shape, according to results. Half of the participants reported a marked reduction in pain, with three participants reporting complete pain relief, researchers noted.
Results showed older patients reported being able to engage in new activities and perform better in activities and hobbies that they had enjoyed for years, while younger participants reported that they were able to continue with or start again after injury a diverse range of hobbies. The Pilates based exercise program enabled participants who engaged in sport to continue with less pain, according to researchers.
Although all participants agreed they had to continue with either group exercises or a home program of exercises to maintain benefits, researchers noted all participants reported lack of time to fit everything in, including work life and other activities, as the biggest obstacle to continuing with classes.
“The Physiotherapy led modified Pilates based exercise program enabled the participants to function better and manage their condition more effectively and independently,” Gaskell told Healio.com/Orthopedics. “Further to previous work, this study has revealed psychological and social benefits which increased motivation to adhere to the program and promote a healthier lifestyle. It was significant in that it was deemed to reverse the ‘inevitable effects associated with ageing and chronic conditions’ in a group of adults aged between 36 years and 83 years with a myriad of [musculoskeletal] MSK conditions. In the light of these findings, people with a range of MSK conditions should be offered supplementary physiotherapy lead Pilates exercise programs either within the NHS or private settings to improve individual function of people to ensure optimum rehabilitation.” – by Casey Tingle
Disclosure: Gaskell reports no relevant financial disclosures.
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