Modern Pilates can be effective to reinforce the muscles of the abdominal wall and to compensate for pre-existing asymmetric developments.
This can happen because of the way we carry our bags, our books and our babies creating muscle imbalances and a dominant side of the body. It creates asymmetrical patterns that affect all our daily activities.
These misalignments are not self-contained in specific muscle groups but influence all movements from standing to sitting to lying down.
The body was built to function as a whole and when one part is off, all systems can be affected.
Most bodies lack symmetrical proportion and over time, this lack of symmetry leads to muscle strain and injury.
The body’s mechanism needs to work like any other machine. All parts need to work harmoniously in order for the machine to run smoothly.
In mechanical systems, the efficiency of performance requires the maintenance of precise movement of the rotating segments. Loss of this precision can begin a cycle of events that creates imbalances in all movement. Ideal symmetrical alignment is crucial for optimal movement.
The more correct alignment of the skeletal segments — the placement of the bones – the greater the performance of the rest of the system.
An imbalanced back can lead to injury, nerve and tissue damage.
Joseph Pilates created Pilates not only as a form of rehab, but also to treat imbalances in the body just like scoliosis.
The results of regular Pilates to treat his clients with scoliosis were incredible. People who could barely stand up straight were able to stand up tall and move nearly perfectly balanced over time. Correcting the muscular imbalance actually corrects the skeletal imbalance since the spine needs muscles for support.
Whether you have minor scoliosis, major scoliosis or an ordinary imbalance from using one side more than the other, exercises like Roll up and Swimming are great to help you.
But please take it slow, ask questions before trying side bending, twisting, or heavier spring use. I highly recommend lighter spring settings that will support their body and teach length and strength. Heavier loads can increase lateral shifts in the spine and distract the body from being able to receive positive sensory feedback.
Speak up if you don’t feel comfortable doing an exercise and learn how to move better!
