"178/365: I'm taking up Pilates." by Betsssssy is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Pilates Enabled Patients with Musculo-Skeletal Symptoms to Function Better

MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
Ms Lynne Gaskell MSc
University of Salford
Manchester UK

MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?

Response: Musculoskeletal Pain as a result of common problems affecting the back, neck, shoulder, knee and multi-site pain is an increasing cause of reduced function and quality of life, and ever increasing demands on healthcare, Prognosis is often poor with many people reporting persistent symptoms after consulting their primary care practitioner. The likelihood of persistent and recurrent clinical symptoms may accentuate the physical, psychological, and social impacts of musculoskeletal pain particularly with the middle aged and elderly populations. Pilates is an exercise approach that has become increasingly popular in recent years and includes over fifty different exercises to improve flexibility, balance, core strength, core stability. It can therefore can be individualised for people with different needs, preferences, musculoskeletal conditions, ages and abilities. Aligning exercise to patient’s functional needs has been linked to long-term exercise adherence. Many physiotherapists such as sydney physio solutions have started to specialise in this as a form of treatment, click here for more info on pilates and the many benefits they can have on your physical health.

This study investigated the personal experiences and perceptions of the impact of Pilates on the day-to-day lives of adults with a myriad of chronic MSK conditions following a 12 week Pilates Exercise Programme.The results were organised into five main themes: 1. Physical Improvements strength, core stability, flexibility and balance. 2. Pilates Promotes an Active Lifestyle and improved performance at work and / or hobbies. 3. Psychosocial benefits and improved confidence, 4. Increased Autonomy in Managing their own Musculoskeletal Condition and 5. Motivation to continue with exercise.

MedicalResearch.com: What are the main findings?

Response: The Pilates based exercise programme enabled the participants to function better and manage their condition more effectively and independently. Further to previous work this study has revealed psychological and social benefits which increased motivation to adhere to the programme and promote a healthier lifestyle.

MedicalResearch.com: What should readers take away from your report?

Response: Pilates based exercise programme enabled the participants to function better independently including better performance at work and/ or hobbies within a short time frame. The Pilates exercise enabled participants to manage their own musculoskeletal conditions more effectively with less need to seek healthcare and 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 MSK and medical conditions. In the light of these findings people with a range of MSK conditions should be offered supplementary Pilates exercise programme either within the NHS or private settings to improve individual function of people to ensure optimum rehabilitation.

MedicalResearch.com: What recommendations do you have for future research as a result of this work?

Response: Recommendations for future research as a result of this study include research into the use of Pilates within the NHS and strategies for optimal rehabilitation for people with a diverse range of MSK conditions.

Citation:

Musculoskeletal Care. 2018 Nov 6. doi: 10.1002/msc.1365. [Epub ahead of print]

A qualitative study of the experiences and perceptions of adults with chronic musculoskeletal conditions following a 12-week Pilates exercise programme.

Gaskell L1, Williams AE2.

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Last Updated on November 13, 2018 by Marie Benz MD FAAD