Thursday, January 25, 2018

Pilates for Cerebral Palsy

It has recently been brought to my attention that Pilates can be used to help lessen the symptoms of Cerebral Palsy.  Physical activity is important for CP patients and Pilates can provide many benefits since it can be adapted to people with physical limitations.  It works to improve symptoms as it increases mobility and range of motion.   Clearly the following benefits would be uplifting for anyone with Cerebral Palsy:


-Improved balance and posture
-Reduce back pain
-Greater strength and stability in the core
-Improved overall strength
-Greater muscle endurance
-Better mental well-being
-Greater flexibility

In addition to Pilates Matwork, guided work on a Reformer (a piece of Pilates equipment with a sliding carriage) has been shown to help children develop greater control over their movements.  A study has shown that after children have used this specialized equipment for several weeks, they were better able to control movements and could sit and balance independently. Pilates has also been shown to promote a positive body image in all types of people, those with and without disabilities. 

Pilates is just one type of exercise that can benefit all types of people.  For someone with CP, who has limited movement, this is a powerful type of exercise that can be used as therapy.  The guided movements also help reduce pain, improve overall well-being and promote self-confidence. As a Pilates practitioner, I am proud that that the modality that I teach serves the CP community well.  

For more information about CP please check out the links below and also on my homepage:

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