Pilates in Rehabilitation

Why is Pilates in rehabilitation an important tool to utilize? For patients recovering from stroke, a 2023 systematic review and meta‑analysis found that Pilates significantly improved mobility—as measured by reductions in Timed Up and Go times (−3 s) —and enhanced quality of life (standardized mean difference ≈ 1.1), with additional benefits in lower-limb motor function, gait, and cardiopulmonary performance (1)

This systematic review showed, through meta-analysis, that the Pilates method is effective in improving the mobility and quality of life of post-stroke individuals (1)

Pilates in Rehabilitation

Pilates in rehabilitation is a highly effective addition to enhance function and overall well-being, particularly for chronic low back pain, post-stroke mobility challenges, and musculoskeletal impairments. Recent systematic reviews (2021–2023) show it significantly reduces pain and disability while improving core strength, balance, and quality of life. Its benefits are consistently superior to no exercise, and often comparable to other exercise forms. 1

Recent research highlights Pilates’ effectiveness for chronic low back pain. A 2023 meta-analysis showed short-term improvements in pain and functional disability, with Pilates often surpassing general exercise and consistently outperforming inactivity. Furthermore, Franks et al. (2023) found emerging evidence that Pilates is at least as effective as other similarly dosed exercises in improving core muscle strength and activation, even proving superior to no intervention or less structured exercise in some trials. (3).

Earn Continuing Education Hours While Learning How to Incorporate Pilates Into Comprehensive Rehab Programs

Utilizing Pilates to Enhance Rehab Outcomes integrates Pilates exercises into a comprehensive rehab program

References

1. Kiefer, K., Alvim Scianni, A., Guimarães da Silva, L. C., Avelino, P. R., & Coelho de Morais Faria, C. D. (2023). The effects of the Pilates method in individuals after stroke: a systematic review with meta-analysis. Manual Therapy, Posturology & Rehabilitation Journal, 21. https://doi.org/10.17784/mtprehabjournal.2023.21.1304
2. Patti A, Thornton JS, Giustino V, Drid P, Paoli A, Schulz JM, Palma A, Bianco A. Effectiveness of Pilates exercise on low back pain: a systematic review with meta-analysis. Disabil Rehabil. 2024 Aug;46(16):3535-3548. doi: 10.1080/09638288.2023.2251404. Epub 2023 Aug 26. PMID: 37632387.
3. Franks J, Thwaites C, Morris ME. Pilates to Improve Core Muscle Activation in Chronic Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review. Healthcare (Basel). 2023 May 12;11(10):1404. doi: 10.3390/healthcare11101404. PMID: 37239690; PMCID: PMC10218154.
4. Yu, Z.; Yin, Y.; Wang, J.; Zhang, X.; Cai, H.; Peng, F. Efficacy of Pilates on Pain, Functional Disorders and Quality of Life in Patients with Chronic Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20, 2850. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20042850