Pilates Central » Scoliosis
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Scoliosis : Abnormal Curvature Of The Spine
The breathing exercises used in Pilates and the way that Pilates lengthens and stabilizes the body can both help victims of Scoliosis, or abnormal curvature of the spine.
The University of Maryland Medical Centre says on its website that 'in adults with a history of scoliosis and previous surgery, moderate exercise is not harmful and is extremely important for maintaining healthy supportive muscles and preventing disk degeneration'.
It reports that in one study Pilates was helpful for a woman with progressively and severe low back pain, adding that the approach 'deserves further research'. It adds a cautionary note, however, for people who have undergone surgery, specifically those with only one or two mobile lumbar vertebrae below the area fused during surgery.
These people should avoid activity or exercise that causes excessive twisting on the spine; some experts believe this may accelerate spinal degeneration.
Pilates, on the other hand, can be just the sort of gentle, moderate exercise that can alleviate the problems of Scoliosis sufferers, without placing their spines under potentially harmful strain.
See also Back Pain, Back Problems
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