The spine fulfils a key role in the body, holding up our torso and allowing us to move. Injuries to the spine can therefore be debilitating and have a huge effect on the body as a whole.
There are many factors that contribute to low back pain. Key areas will be addressing the posture and any imbalances, as well as strengthening the abdominals and deep back muscles. It is important to take action at the first sign of non-specific lower back pain in order to avoid this turning into a more complex condition. A tailored studio session 2-3 times a week along with regular exercise can improve posture and strengthen the muscles that support the spine – thus relieving pain.
Between each vertebra is a small shock absorber known as an intervertebral disc. When these intervertebral discs are completely healthy they keep the vertebrae separated and allow nerves space to exit the spinal column. An unhealthy disc however, can be thinning, squashed on one side, protruding out of the vertebral column, or have burst (herniated) so that the nucleus protrudes. Each of these pathologies can be very painful, often with referred pain due to the proximity of nerves. In these cases we work alongside allied health practitioners to devise a treatment plan that unloads the spine and works to strengthen the spine and supporting musculature, as well as addressing postural imbalances. At Aligned for Life Pilates we would recommend two supervised sessions with a senior instructor along with treatment from a qualified health practitioner.
As we journey through life, each decade brings its own set of challenges on one end, as well as opportunities for growth on the other, both physically and mentally.
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March is Endometriosis Awareness Month. Nurse-Midwife and AFLP Pilates teacher Melissa Mazzarino has written about her personal journey of suffering endometriosis and how Pilates helped throughout her journey to gaining wellness. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare report (2019) have reported that 1 in 9 women born between 1973-1978 have been diagnosed with […]
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Can I exercise during my pregnancy? Exercise during pregnancy benefits maternal health by improving fitness and quality of life and lowering the likelihood of developing gestational diabetes or hypertension. Women who exercise during pregnancy report less fatigue and may adapt better to the physical changes of pregnancy. For these reasons, women are recommended to exercise […]
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