Sports injuries can be emotionally and physically debilitating, and the road to recovery through physical therapy can often feel stressful. Pilates can be an integral holistic tool for rehabilitation and physical therapy that can help you recover from sports injuries while helping to prevent future injuries and address the emotional cost of becoming injured with mental and stress-relieving benefits.
At Sheppard Method Pilates in Westwood, we understand the importance of long-term health and wellness. By strengthening the deepest muscles of the core, optimizing mobility, stability, flexibility, and balance, and offering a low-impact movement to recover and prevent future injuries, Pilates may be the rehab and recovery you need to get back to your sport.
Want to learn more about how Pilates can help you recover from sports injuries? Contact Sheppard Method Pilates in Westwood. Contact our office to get started!
Why Pilates is Great for Injury Recovery
There is a reason why physical therapists recommend pairing PT with Pilates practice. The long-term benefits of practicing Pilates and the inclusivity of Pilates’ low-impact, accessible movements allow Pilates to meet you wherever you are in your stage of recovery and continue with you long after you are healthy again.
The top fundamental reasons that Pilates is great for injury recovery include:
- A focus on deep core muscles
- An emphasis on both stability and mobility, which helps to strengthen and lubricate the joints and tendons, preventing future injuries
- Pilates helps to build balance – balance throughout the body, helping to maintain proper form in athletics and preventing future issues.
- Exercises that work muscles statically and dynamically for easy translation into any athletic movement
- Pilates exercises are functional and easily adaptable for any skill level or recovery stage
- The focus on breathing, which encourages healing and full-body wellness, as well as emotional and mental benefits during rehabilitation
- Regular Pilates practice is a form of conditioning for both mental and physical endurance and control
- Increased flexibility will help prevent future injuries
Is Pilates Safe to Do for Sports Injury?
The short answer is YES! Depending on the type and severity of the injury, the time between injury and beginning Pilates for recovery will vary from person to person. Your physical therapist and your Pilates instructor will be able to consult you on exactly when and where to start your Pilates practice and what movements may be best to help you with your specific injury recovery.
Athletic injuries that Pilates can help rehabilitate include:
- Knee injuries
- Hamstring issues
- Hip tendonitis
- Stroke recovery
- Disc herniations
- Lower back pain
- Weak neck
- Scoliosis
- Meniscus injury
- Joint replacement
- ACL recovery
- Shoulder pain or injury
Pilates Practice for Sports Injury Rehabilitation
Pilates works best as a complement to physical therapy for injury recovery rather than a replacement. However, if you do not have a physical therapist, experienced a minor injury, or have a chronic issue when playing your sport, Pilates can still be safe to practice. It is recommended to practice Pilates two to three times a week for the best results on your road to recovery.
Any Pilates is appropriate for sports injury recovery: mat Pilates, Reformer Pilates, hybrid Pilates, and more. Your Pilates instructor can help you determine what is best for you and assist with any adaptations you may need to perform the movements or use the equipment.
Sheppard Method Pilates: Your Key to Sports Injury Recovery
At Sheppard Method Pilates, we offer several options for you to practice Pilates to recover from sports injuries. Group classes are a low-risk option with a variety of classes offered. Here, you can still discuss your treatment goals with your Pilates instructor, who will ensure you’re needs are being met in class. If you cannot be mobile or prefer one-on-one instruction for a more targeted rehabilitation, we also offer private classes and at-home sessions where an instructor will come to you. No matter where you are, or what injury you have suffered, Sheppard Method Pilates is here to get you back to your sport, healthier and happier than before.
Contact Sheppard Method Pilates for more information about our class schedule and available instructors!
