Services

Clinical Pilates

 

Clinical Pilates

Clinical Pilates is a therapeutic exercise system that is different from traditional weight training or stretching programmes. It is a method of exercise and physical movement designed to stretch, strengthen and balance the body. Using the systematic practice of specific exercises, coupled with focused breathing patterns, Pilates has proven itself invaluable not only for fitness, but also as an important adjunct to sports training and physical rehabilitation of all kinds.

 

Our clinical Pilates trained physiotherapists perform a detailed physical assessment including, where appropriate, the use of realtime ultrasound to assess the patient’s ability to contract the target muscles (Transversus Abdominis, Multifidus and the pelvic floor).

 

 

Realtime Ultrasound

The advantage of Pilates training using realtime ultrasound is in the visual feedback the patient receives by being able to see on a screen, the movement of the muscles they are trying to strengthen. Without the visual feedback of realtime ultrasound, some patients find it difficult to recruit and isolate these muscles.

 

Realtime ultrasound, in assessing the quality of the muscle contractions, is also a useful tool in reassessing the progress made, as the patient and therapist are able to see on the screen, the improvement in muscle strength, bulk and tone compared with their initial assessment prior to any Pilates training.

 

Our physiotherapists design a tailor-made programme based on the pathology and individual needs. All sessions are on a one-to-one basis to ensure accurate technique. Patients are also given a home exercise programme to maintain and enhance the work they have done in the studio.

 
 
Clinical Pilates
  • Develops core (spine, shoulder and pelvic girdle) stability.
  • Improves mind-body control.
  • Increases postural awareness.
  
  • Trains efficient breathing and movement patterns.
  • Creates a balanced body.
  • Enhances muscle tone and flexibility.

 

 

Application
Injury prevention it helps to prevent overuse injuries and reduce joint load by building a stable core, correcting muscle imbalance and re-educating posture. It can also reduce the chance of getting injured during sport by improving balance, control and flexibility.
Rehabilitation it is beneficial for neck and back pain, as well as upper and lower limb problems resulting from an unstable core. The direction of movement, speed, range, load, holding time and frequency are varied according to the underlying pathology.
Performance enhancement with increased core stability, the coordination, strength, control, balance and efficiency of the limbs are all improved, thereby enhancing exercise performance. Pilates improves body shape and generally tones up the muscles.

 

Our Pilates Studio

Equipped with reformers, a trapeze table and a thoracic barrel. Our qualified physiotherapists perform a detailed assessment and design tailor-made programmes for each client based on the underlying pathology and the individual’s needs.

 

Most sessions are on a “one-to-one” basis to ensure accuracy of technique, although small group sessions are available if clients are preferred. Clients are also given a home programme to maintain and enhance the work done in the studio.

 

Pilates starts with small, controlled movements to ensure that the right muscles are being recruited in the right pattern, but should ultimately be progressed so that it is integrated into everyday and sports activities.