Developed by physiotherapists, Clinical Pilates utilizes and advances the original Pilates exercise method to provide a safe and very effective exercise approach used in the management and rehabilitation of spinal problems. It is a most powerful tool for the recovery of core stability and strength in people with recurring or chronic pain.

The exercises are guided by the physiotherapists’ comprehensive understanding of the mechanism and pathology of spinal injury combined with recent research emphasizing the importance of spinal stability in the treatment of spinal problems.

Clinical Pilates is a highly individualized exercise program which is injury-specific, efficient and safe in the management of acute and chronic spinal pain.

How can Clinical Pilates help me?

Clinical Pilates targets the core stabilizers and focuses on improving muscle control and endurance to facilitate a more efficient use of the body and reduce overstrain of our spine. Using a combination of spring-loaded equipment, ball, and floor work, your program is individually prescribed and monitored by your physiotherapist to ensure you achieve the best results. The Clinical Pilates ‘Reformer’ forms a critical part of your program. These pieces of equipment allow your physiotherapist to very specifically and appropriately recruit trunk musculature which otherwise is very difficult to do. Most importantly it allows you to do this safely and in a graded manner avoiding the unfortunate flare ups that can occur with more generic exercise.

• You will notice:
• - Improved function of the trunk stabilizing muscles
• - Improved posture, co-ordination,
•   body awareness and flexibility
• - Correction of faulty mechanics that
•   underlie recurring sporting
•   and spinal injuries
•  
• Leading to:
• - Reduced pain levels and injury recurrence
• - Improved ability to perform
•   work/sporting/social activities

What conditions will benefit from Clinical Pilates?

A very wide variety of joint and muscle problems will benefit from Clinical Pilates. It is best to discuss this directly with one of our trained therapists to determine whether it is suitable for you.

Some of the many conditions it has shown great benefit for include:

• - Lumbar disc pathology
• - Lumbar spondylosis or arthritis
• - Lumbar instability - Non-specific low back pain
• - Chronic Pain
• - Neck pain
• - Headaches
• - Pre and post-pregnancy pain
• - Sports injuries

What does it involve?

Your physiotherapist will conduct a full musculoskeletal assessment and prescribe a closely monitored program to specifically address your individual needs.

Your program is closely supervised sessions on the clinical reformer once to twice per week for 6 to 10 weeks. You may then progress to group sessions or move purely to a home program

Early in your treatment you will be taught a home exercise program which compliments what you are doing on the equipment in the treatment suite (Pilates Reformers)

If you would like to make an appointment or more information please contact our senior Clinical Pilates therapist Liz Watson on 9614 0803

Clinical Pilates is classed as a physiotherapy consultation and is rebateable through your private health insurance. Our therapists are also registered with Workcover, TAC, Veteran Affairs and Medicare.