core stability – Hinteractive Physio

Pilates is one of the most popular forms of exercise worldwide. It is a mind-body conditioning exercise program that utilises a variety of different exercises to improve core muscle awareness and strength as well as posture, balance and flexibility. Pilates classes are taught by a variety of different instructors in various locations. A lot of Pilates classes are taught in fitness centres by fitness instructors and may not be specifically targeted to different populations or injuries/physical limitations.

Clinical Pilates combines traditional Pilates exercises with the knowledge and skills of a physiotherapist (or other suitably qualified health professional). This enables the physiotherapist to specifically choose, modify or adjust exercises that meet an individual’s needs based on careful observation and clinical assessment. The specific choice of exercises can be the difference between an exercise program that is effective and one that is not or has a potential for increased injury risk. Clinical Pilates teaches body awareness, optimal posture and movement patterns, flexibility, improved balance and reaction time as well as improved local and global muscle strength.

At Hinteractive Physio, we offer clinical Pilates in either a mat or equipment (Pilates reformer machine) based setting. Clinical Pilates is generally suitable for most people, however those who find it difficult to get on and off the ground, may prefer the Pilates equipment classes. Classes run for just under 60 minutes and if clinically required for injury or condition management may be claimed through your health fund. You will need to make an appointment with a physiotherapist for a Pilates assessment. During this assessment, the physiotherapist will take a history of current and past conditions, assess your physical limitations or requirements for optimal functioning, assess your core muscle activation and control levels, and teach you the basic terms and positions that you will require for your Pilates program. This initial Pilates assessment is claimable through your private health insurance. If you have any questions regarding clinical Pilates or if it may be of benefit to you, please contact our friendly staff on 5442 5556 or drop in to the clinic at 3/11 Garnet Street Cooroy. Alternatively, a current timetable and class information is available on our website: www.hinteractivephysio.com.au

Horse-riding is a very common activity among hinterland residents and is a great form of exercise. Back pain is also a common complaint, so, when is horse-riding beneficial and when it is harmful? What exercise should you do to help prevent back pain from riding and reduce your time off the horse.

Riding with a good technique uses most muscles in the body. Sitting on a saddle with a controlled, upright posture requires the core muscles to stabilise the body against the movements of the horse. This type of activity is great for the spine, as long as good posture and core stability are maintained. Problems occur when people are suffering with back pain and have lost their core control before they start riding, or when they are riding with poor posture and control or for longer periods than their fitness allows. Getting a horse to move in certain ways under command requires whole body strength along with core stability.

As physio’s we tend to see more injuries from looking after horses than we do from riding. The manual work required to look after a horse requires lots of lifting, bending and twisting. These repetitive actions are known to be harmful to the spine and often lead to injury. Be aware of your spine when you are cleaning and maintaining your horses. Use your legs more than your spine for lifting and turning and consider a back support if you have had a previous injury.

Most people ride on a weekend basis and may not be physically fit enough to cope with the length of ride and postural control required. Having good cardiovascular fitness is essential, so this type of exercise (eg. Walking, swimming, running, cycling) should be incorporated into your lifestyle. Core stability exercises such as pilates and fitball exercises will ensure that the postural muscles have the endurance required to support the spine during horse-riding. If you are already suffering with back pain, it is essential to have these muscles working well before you return to riding.

Seek advice from a physiotherapist early to avoid chronic back pain or time out of the saddle. Craig and Rebecca Steele operate Hinteractive Physio and can be contacted on 5442 5556.

Clinical Pilates – What is It and Is it for Me?

How to Stay Comfortable in the Saddle

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