Therapeutic Pilates
Pilates is not just exercise, but rather, a blend of particular movements put together in a systematic way to enhance both, physical and mental conditioning. With Pilates you will improve your strength, flexibility, and coordination. As well as, reduce stress and improve mental focus.
How does Pilates apply to your Chiropractic care?
Anatomical Position and Joint Care
A correct anatomical position, which includes the interaction of the bones, ligaments, tendons and muscles, places the bones in an optimal position alleviating tension and strain on the joints. Two bones come together and are attached to each other by ligaments to form a joint. Tendons attach the muscles to the bones which allow movement of the joint. Thus, the correct anatomical position, or proper posture, will reduce stress and tension on the body and decrease pain.
When you come in for an adjustment, your Chiropractor manipulates the joint and creates relief. In order for your body to hold the adjustment there is a need to strengthen the muscles around the area manipulated. Pilates will help to strengthen and stretch these muscles and aide the body in maintaining a pain-free position.
Body Awareness
Our daily routines can cause muscle imbalances. Think of tug-of-war, your spine being the rope and the muscles around the spine are the forces tugging in opposite directions. An imbalance in the muscles can cause the bones to pull too far apart leaving the joint lax, or too close together creating friction between the bones. Both of these conditions can cause discomfort or pain.
In a Pilates session you will be introduced to the correct anatomical position and will explore movements while maintaining this position. A correct anatomical position will focus on the proper alignment of the spine, pelvis, and shoulder girdle — the CORE. The specialized Pilates equipment allows you to work with resistance, thus building muscle strength and bone density, while minimizing the stress and strain on the joints. You will develop endurance, symmetry, and coordination of the whole body. Exploring functional movement will create awareness and teach the muscles correct firing patterns to carry forward into your everyday life.
Overall Well-Being
Chiropractic care combined with Pilates can aide in your overall well-being. Both will improve nerve communication through out the body. Better communication will improve muscular coordination and organ function.
In a Pilates session you will focus on breath and conscious movement, increasing circulation. Better circulation helps rid the body of toxins and brings nutrients and oxygen to the muscles. Moving will release endorphins — the “happy” hormone. You will feel healthier and stronger.
Be kind to your spine!