Clinical Pilates is a type of exercise that is guided by a physiotherapist or another trained health professional. It takes the main ideas of regular Pilates – such as improving core strength, posture, flexibility, and body control – and adapts them to help people recover from injuries, move better, and prevent future problems.
Clinical Pilates provides specialised exercise programs for each individual based on their unique needs, taking into account their strengths, weaknesses, mobility or flexibility restrictions, and any injuries or conditions. These exercises are completed in a controlled, supervised setting to ensure correct technique and to achieve the greatest possible benefit from each session.
what is the focus of pilates?
Pilates exercises focus on strengthening the muscles that provide deep stabilising support. This includes, but is not limited to, the deep muscles of the core such as the transverse abdominis, obliques, and pelvic floor muscles. There are also deep gluteal and back muscles that help stabilise the hips, pelvis, and spine.
These deep muscles act as a bracing mechanism in anticipation of movement and help reduce the load placed on the spine. This function is often affected by pain or injury to the spine, poor posture, abdominal surgery, or pregnancy. Deep muscle strengthening exercises form the foundation of any effective exercise or rehabilitation program.
What conditions benefit from Clinical Pilates?
• Non-specific lower back pain
• Lumbar spine conditions (discogenic pain, stenosis, facet joint arthropathy)
• Cervical pain and whiplash-associated disorders / whiplash
• Thoracic pain and stiffness
• Postural-related dysfunctions
• Shoulder instability or impingement syndromes
• Hip-related conditions (femoroacetabular impingement, gluteal tendinopathy, bursitis)
• Sport-related injuries and rehabilitation
• Return-to-sport conditioning needs
• Sacroiliac joint dysfunction
• Pelvic floor dysfunction
• Pregnancy-related musculoskeletal pain
• Falls and balance-related concerns
• Global muscle weakness and functional decline
• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Osteoporosis and osteopenia
• Stroke rehabilitation
• Parkinson’s disease
• Multiple sclerosis
• Cerebral palsy (mild cases)
• Scoliosis
What does Clinical Pilates look like at Whittlesea Physiotherapy?
Comprehensive, full-body Clinical Pilates assessments are conducted by our experienced physiotherapists for each individual prior to beginning their classes. From this assessment, a detailed and individualised program is developed, allowing clients to begin their Clinical Pilates journey either through supported group classes or one-on-one sessions.
Clinical Pilates at Whittlesea Physiotherapy incorporates the use of specialised equipment, including – but not limited to – Reformers, a Trapeze Table, and a Wunda Chair. Classes have a maximum of four participants per group and are facilitated by our qualified allied health professionals.
Reach out today to learn more or to book your Clinical Pilates assessment!