Pilates for neurological conditions (or how I found Pilates)
I started my Pilates journey after I was diagnosed with a rare and painful neurological condition called cervical dystonia, where the neck muscles contract involuntarily, causing my head to twist or turn to one side, like the exorcist. Unfortunately, there is no cure for this condition. You just need to learn to live with it (easier said than done). The only treatment available is to inject Botox into the affected muscles. The injections can sometimes reduce the spasms. In my case they didn’t really help much. The constant muscle contraction makes my neck very stiff and creates a chain of events all the way down to my feet.
Pilates for Dystonia and neurological conditions
My neurologist at the time suggested to try Pilates to keep my muscles healthy, build core strength and avoid muscles from shortening especially on my neck, as well as, providing more flexibility to my whole body.
I decided to become a Pilates instructor to be able to design my own routine and try different things knowing what I was doing. Dystonia affects people differently. In my case I really need to work on developing strong back muscles to avoid becoming the hunchback of Notredame! I also work on my balance daily, as I have lost it big time, as well as keeping my core strong and my neck and spine mobile. Pilates has made a massive difference in my life, not only physically but also mentally. Pilates is a body and mind exercise.
Dystonia is related to Parkinson’s and like dystonia in Parkinson’s your muscles also become very stiff and they lose strength. Pilates helps you manage physical symptoms by strengthen the muscles, improve balance, flexibility and improve your posture. For these conditions exercise can be as important as the medication to help you take control and manage the symptoms. When I don’t move enough, I’m so stiff that I feel I’ll break. It’s very painful.
Pilates can also help with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). MS is another neurological condition that can have affect your movement. Can affect your balance, including difficulties with coordination, tremor and muscle weakness, stiffness or spasms. Again, Pilates can help with coordination and stabilizing and strengthening the body.
Pilates helps with so many different conditions. We will be covering them in different posts. Do let me know if you have stories or experiences where Pilates has helped you with particular issues. If you would like to share your story shoot me an email at mariajose@pilatescoreclub.com