Written by: Diana Feltz, M.S. Exercise Physiologist
Our bodies are amazing. This is most noticeable with correct efficient rehabilitation following injury. Over time we have evolved in our understanding of the body and in the realization that movement ---is good for us. A sound exercise program stimulates the immune system and helps us cope with stress. Movement is essential to the health of our bodies, and people who exercise regularly have fewer illnesses.
In the early 1900’s, German born Joseph Pilates already knew this was essential for quicker recovery from injury when rehabilitating soldiers during the first World War. He began experimenting with springs attached to hospital beds to allow patients to start working out before they were even able to get up. The therapeutic effects of immediate rehabilitation had yet to be discovered. He found that the springs provided enough resistance to accelerate in patients’ muscles recovery and assist in strengthening and toning.
Staff Exercise Physiolgist and rehabilitation therapist, Diana Feltz, can speak from experience having had a back injury herself and rehabilitated using the Pilates technique. Many times following an injury, especially those to the back, we have been told to lie and rest. This is of course good advice if a person feels sharp or pinprick pain or radiating pain in the extremities. Anyone experiencing this type of pain should seek medical attention in any case to make sure the injury is not serious. A muscle strain also, can feel very painful and seem serious. However, it is important to know the difference between hurt and harm.
Tears and strains can be worked gently with stretching and mild exercise after the initial swelling and severe pain have disappeared within normal range of motion. Beginning with passive motion and small stretching of the affected area involving isometric strengthening and isokinetic contraction. Pilates is an inexact isokinetic type of exercise. An understanding of the internal mechanics of the human structure...placement and movement of bones...is essential to the healthy development of your body. A ‘one spot’ type of approach does not work.
The Physical Mind Method using the Pilates technique, does not isolate one muscle at a time, in fact major muscle groups are engaged and activated with each movement with several repetitions. As a result, you have a rehabilitative technique that includes Coordination, Balance, Flexibility,Control, Core Stabilization, Alignment, Correct Breathing, Tension Release, Body Awareness, Anaerobic endurance and Equalization of Muscle Development.
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