Pilates makes a good choice for people rehabilitating following various types of surgery. It addresses specific challenges that people face when recovering from surgery, as well as helping them gradually increase fitness at a time when they may otherwise be fairly sedentary.
Pilates after abdominal surgery builds the abdominal muscles
– and cut the risk of hernias or back pain
One of the biggest concerns when recovering from abdominal surgery is how best to rebuild abdominal muscles once someone has received the all-clear from their doctor to start exercising again.
Surgeons have to cut through the tummy muscles and fibrous bands in the abdominal wall in order to perform this type of surgery. As a result, there is usually a long-term weakness in the abdominal muscles. Not only may this affect the appearance of the abdomen but it may also lead to an increased risk of developing a hernia or lower back pain from a lack of core strength.
Pilates is ideal for slowly beginning to rebuild core strength. Our teachers are able to create a tailored exercise regime to suit the needs of each individual, reflecting, of course, the specific type of surgery performed and the best way to rebuild the muscles affected.
Pilates after hip or knee replacement
Pilates is considered an excellent form of rehabilitation exercise following a joint replacement such as the hip or knee. It helps to address any weakness, stiffness and balance issues, while also helping the person concerned to get used to their new replacement joint. Exercises are performed in a slow and controlled manner allowing any necessary adjustments or modifications to be made.
Unfortunately, many people learn bad habits while waiting to have surgery due to dealing with symptoms such as stiffness or pain in the joint.
One of the major benefits of Pilates for people who have had joint replacement surgery is that Pilates allows them to learn and rebuild movement in the joint as well as the body as a whole. This is important for restoring alignment in the body as well as creating good posture and strengthening weak muscles.
Pilates after knee surgery, such as ACL reconstruction
Even if you have not had the joint replaced but have instead had knee surgery, Pilates can help to aid rehabilitation post-surgery. For example, people who have had ACL (Anterior cruciate ligament) reconstruction benefit from strengthening the muscles around the knee joint.
Pilates, particularly on the reformer, allows this to be done in a way that means there is lighter resistance on the joint than with other forms of exercise.
In addition, because Pilates works on the body as a whole, the whole lower half of the body becomes aligned and strengthened. This helps with creating better balance and posture, thus stabilising the knee and helping to prevent injury in the future.
Get in touch
We would be happy to help you find out if Pilates might help you with your recovery following surgery. Call us on 020 7288 8080 or use our contact form to drop us a line and we’ll get back to you.
As always, it is advisable to ask a doctor before starting any exercise regime.
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