taking the sea air at Aldeburgh

Forthcoming classes >

For appointments or enquiries please call

Suffolk - Tel: 01728 638604

Katharina Hesse

Pilates Foundation Accredited Instructor

Lebed Method Certified Instructor

London - Tel: 07958 412 386

Alessandra Margarito

Pilates Foundation Accredited Instructor

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How Pilates can help with Backache

Focus on Healing Through Exercise and Herbal Remedies

  • Is Pilates really beneficial for backache?
    • Yes. Pilates is often prescribed for backache or sciatica. This is because backache can be caused by postural misalignment, muscular imbalance or weakness.
    • A suitably qualified Pilates instructor will help you change all of the above. In addition, Pilates focuses on mobilising and strengthening the spine and working the pelvic floor, another possible cause for back pain.
    • Backache may also be caused by stress and tension. Very tight muscles can create postural problems or even trap a nerve, often the cause for sciatica. The nature of the exercises in a Pilates class and the focus on breathing generally help people to relax and can release hypertonic muscles.
  • Do I have to see my GP for my backache?
    • Yes. Unless your Pilates instructor is medically qualified, your GP or backcare specialist should exclude other causes for your backache, such as a herniated disc or severe osteoporosis, for example.
    • In the case of a recently slipped disc you should not take Pilates classes.
    • In the case of severe osteoporosis or spinal stenosis, a general, open class might not be suitable. Some instructors are now running classes specifically for people with osteoporosis. Look for an instructor who is experienced in this field and consider one-on-one tuition if special classes are not available. You can also ask your GP for a referral to a Pilates instructor.
    • Caution: You urgently need to see your GP if your back pain is linked to problems when urinating, faecal incontinence or your walking is severely affected. Always mention any problems or medical conditions, however long ago, to your exercise instructor.
  • How can I prevent backache?
    • Gentle exercises like walking and swimming are great for prevention and treatment of backache. There are also numerous exercises that you can do at home to keep your spine flexible and strong. Changing neuro-muscular patterns through ideokinesis can also be helpful.
    • For more information on lifting techniques, prevention of backache when working around the house and garden and First Aid tips on treating backache, visit www.backpain.org
    • Whilst herbs do not prevent backache, they can help to relieve the pain. Studies suggest that capsicum tincture, applied externally to the affected area, is a useful treatment for backache. You can buy capsicum tincture from Traditional Medicinals Ltd.
      A qualified herbalist can also advise you on herbs that help with stress, tension or depression.
  • The above information does not replace medical advice. If you suffer from any of the above medical conditions you should always seek the advice of a suitably qualified practitioner.
 
 
    
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