How Can Pilates Help My EDS/HSD Symptoms?

Transcription

1 How Can Pilates Help My EDS/HSD Symptoms?

2 I have no disclosures to declare

3 Bringing Solutions to HSD & EDS Teaching Pilates and Movement Therapy since 2008 Create+ London clinics SW London & Central London Author - Pilates Without Tears No Pain, No Strain Strategy to Move Well and Feel Great Rehab focus pain management, chronic pain, injury, hypermobility, EDS Developed The Integral Movement Method Certified Health Coach

4 Starting at the end Testimonials It gives me awareness and control. Emma Pilates is my physiotherapy and it keeps me pain free. If I miss it for more than a few weeks the pain cycle starts up again. Dena I was scared at first but I now look forward to it. It leaves me energised and optimistic. Gillian Pilates means strength and togetherness to me with EDS. Jen It gives me strength and stability. My body feels amazing and connected after class. Nicole

5 Pilates as Movement Therapy Unique to the individual. Physical symptoms: chronic pain, joint instability, lack of fine motor control, subluxations/dislocations, stiffness and yet flexibility, headaches, flat feet, impaired proprioception and body awareness. Emotional and psychological: anxiety, tension, stress, fear of movement, lack of confidence and a feeling of isolation. The Integral Movement Method: Pilates-based, holistic, 360- degree perspective to movement and wellbeing.

6 Mr Pilates The Pilates Method teaches you to be in control of your body and not at its mercy Change happens through movement and movement heals (Return to Life, Joseph Pilates, ) Photo courtesy of Life Magazine

7 What s right for my body? Mat Contemporary Classical Clinical Reformer Chair One to one / duets HIIT Cardio Jumpboard Group or one-to-one Different schools of thought NOT a replacement Not every exercise is going to be suitable for everyone Always consult with a medical practitioner before beginning any new exercise method

8 Looking beyond Pilates as just exercise The language we use is going to impact the movement we make Language creates feelings The feelings we create in the body are going to impact the movement we make Connotations of force: push, pull, squeeze, fix = stress, strain, pain, faulty movement Block the connection of mind and body No pain, no strain evolution

9 Things I hear from new clients The pain is part of life I ve come to live with my pain now I used to be able to do that, but I can t now because of my pain I don t like taking pain medication I manage It s normal to feel like this I d love to but I can t I m not sure I can do that anymore I was too tired to do my exercises I m scared I m going to hurt my back or muscles

10 But this is where we can get to It gives me awareness and control. Emma Pilates is my physiotherapy and it keeps me pain free. If I miss it for more than a few weeks the pain cycle starts up again. Dena I was scared at first but I now look forward to it. It leaves me energised and optimistic. Gillian Pilates means strength and togetherness to me with EDS. Jen It gives me strength and stability. My body feels amazing and connected after class. Nicole

11 Pain Cycle and Exercise Pain Increased fatigue and stress Fatigue and stress Increased pain No exercise

12 Small steps Firm believer that everything counts Progress not perfection Not performing an exercise, but moving with awareness Small physical step is a massive emotional step Self-awareness, self-belief Confidence, inner strength, resilience Pacing is essential

13 Case Study: Sarah Before Pilates Fit, athletic, pushed her body hard Bendy as a child funny tricks Experiencing dislocations after exercise Back pain every day Anti inflammatory meds and painkillers Thought pain was part of life

14 Case Study: Sarah Now Pilates completely changed physical life Re-learnt how to move totally Exercising pain-free now No longer lives in constant pain Sleeps throughout night without pain waking her up. No painkillers for 3 years Why: Keeps her fit, keeps joints healthy, increases endurance & tones the body

15 Case Study: Emma Before Pilates Young mum, 2 children Chronic muscle pain since 2000 Injury prone Uncoordinated; constant neck and shoulder pain; sciatica Low mood and stressed Misdiagnosed as autoimmune condition

16 Case Study: Emma Now Weekly Pilates sessions, less physio Less injury prone Minimal pain knows why Breathing efficiently to power and relax body Greater body awareness Feels totally transformed from how she felt Why: Brings control and awareness, understand how to exercise safely within range of control. Feels a deep sense of movement and power from within, never felt before.

17 How? A Programme for the HSD/ EDS Patient The science The Integral Movement Method Pilates-based, but evolved from a rehabilitation, pain management and somatic focus 360 degree approach not mechanical Designed to work on mind first and then body Build solid foundations Six integrated elements: Breathing Relaxation Proprioception Joint Stability Balance Posture

18 1. Breathing Relearn Awareness Physiological impact Breath first, movement second Breath creates movement Improved proprioception / reduces pain Meditation benefits are well documented including muscle relaxation = interrupts pain

19 2. Relaxation Integrated to breath Release tension Recognise holding patterns Build sensory awareness Promotes good sleep hygiene

20 3. Proprioception Awareness Control Explore Range Reduces pain

21 4. Joint Stability Awareness Core Control Protection Fluid movements No pain, no strain Start at the ground and work up!

22 5. Balance Essential Integration Stability Strength Strong, Integrated Feet Everyday Activities

23 6. Posture Not taught Emerges Body and mind organisation Healthy alignment Whole body awareness and integration A forever

24 Benefits Summary for the HSD/EDS Community Increased sensory awareness use of language and feelings key Strength and control of range of movement Improved muscle tone = less pain Decrease in pain and confident self management techniques Injury prevention / decrease subluxations Improved breathing patterns Dynamic posture with stamina Good tension in body, not unhelpful tension Overall quality of life energy, vitality, ability Confidence, mood and stress levels Sense of overall wellbeing and calm Clearer thoughts and less brain fog Community and support Adaptable base for exercise, sport and everyday living

25 Further Information Check with your medical practitioner first. Support and information daily on Facebook: Jeannie Di Bon IMM reading Pilates Without Tears Online Teacher Training Sept 18 London Not all exercises are suitable! Photo courtesy of Getty Images

26 Thank you for listening Contact me directly: All material is copyrighted to the author and cannot be reproduced without permission

27