The effect of Pilates exercise during pregnancy on delivery outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to investigate the effectiveness of the Pilates exercise program during pregnancy on different delivery outcomes. Various databases were searched from inception until November 2022. The included studies compared Pilates exercise to routine antenatal care in pregnant women. The primary outcomes assessed were vaginal and cesarean delivery rates, as well as labor duration. Secondary outcomes included episiotomy incidence, Apgar scores, and epidural analgesia. Seven studies met the inclusion criteria, involving a total of 1,003 patients. Results indicated a significant increase in the vaginal delivery rate among the Pilates exercise group compared to the control group (p < .001). Moreover, the Pilates exercise group exhibited significantly reduced rates of cesarean delivery and shorter labor duration. Pilates exercise was associated with a significant decline in the incidence of episiotomy and the number of women requiring epidural analgesia during delivery (p < .001 & p = .008). In addition, Apgar scores at one and five minutes were significantly higher in the Pilates exercise group compared to the control group (p < .001). In conclusion, Pilates exercise during pregnancy has a positive effect on maternal outcomes and Apgar scores. However, more trials are needed to confirm these findings.

Effectiveness of Pilates exercise on low back pain: a systematic review with meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: Low back pain is the most frequently reported musculoskeletal disorder and represents one of the highest patient burdens in healthcare. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the effectiveness of Pilates exercise on pain intensity and functional disability caused by low back pain (LBP). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A Systematic review with meta-analysis was conducted. Data sources: MEDLINE-NLM and MEDLINE-EBSCO. We also searched on Scopus Elsevier, Cochrane, DOAJ, SciELO, PEDro, and PLOS ONE databases. Eligibility criteria: randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating LBP in which the primary treatment was based on Pilates exercise compared with no exercise, or non-specific exercise. RESULTS: The search returned 1566 records of which 36 articles were included in the systematic review and 19 in the meta-analysis. Twenty-two studies compared the effects of Pilates exercise vs no exercise and 13 studies examined the effects of Pilates exercise vs non-specific exercise. Analysis showed that Pilates had a positive effect on the perception of LBP vs no exercise. A similar trend occurred with non-specific exercise. CONCLUSIONS: Pilates exercise can decrease LBP compared to no exercise and non-specific exercise. General practitioners should consider Pilates exercise as an effective strategy to manage LBP and counteract the growing health. TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO registration number: CRD42022308387.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONPilates is a good strategy for improving low back pain and is more effective than other exercise programs or no exercise.Pilates is a safe tool to apply to most of the population with low back pain.Pilates is a non-pharmacological strategy useful for counteracting low back pain.

Pilates Method and/or Photobiomodulation Therapy Combined to Static Magnetic Field in Women with Stress Urinary Incontinence: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial.

This clinical trial aims to provide evidence about the effectiveness of the Pilates method on stress urinary incontinence (SUI), as well as to elucidate the effects of photobiomodulation therapy associated with static magnetic field (PBMT/sMF) alone or associated with the Pilates Method on Pelvic floor muscle (PFM) in women affected by SUI. For that, a three-arm, parallel randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial was conducted (NCT05096936). We recruited thirty-three women diagnosed with SUI, randomly allocated to three groups: placebo PBMT/sMF plus method Pilates, PBMT/sMF active plus method Pilates and only PBMT/sMF active. The evaluation consisted of anamnesis and physical examination, muscle strength, completion of the ICIQ-SF questionnaire, and urinary loss. The evaluation of muscle strength and filling the ICIQ-SF were performed on the first and last days, while the Pad test was applied in baseline, one month, two months, and three months of intervention. We observed an increase in strength (p < 0.01), tone (p < 0.01), and quality of life (p < 0.01), in addition to a decrease in urinary lost (p < 0.01) for all groups comparing the pre and post-intervention. The PBMT/sMF alone, the Pilates, and the combination of the two therapies proved to be effective in improving the signs and symptoms of women with SUI.

Effects of the Implementation of an Intervention Based on Falls Education Programmes on an Older Adult Population Practising Pilates-A Pilot Study.

Age brings consequent physical deterioration of body balance, strength, flexibility and agility. It has been demonstrated that daily physical activity (PA), managed by professionals, is fundamental to ageing with increased quality and to reducing the number of falls, which are a consequence of factors highlighted above. This has been most evident during the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this study is to determine and analyse the effects of a multidisciplinary intervention based on the Safe Fall, Safe Schools, adapted utilitarian judo (JUA) and Pilates programmes in a population of older people. After an intervention of 60 min, 2 days a week for 12 weeks, the changes produced in variables such as quality of life, balance, lower body strength, flexibility and agility were analysed. A p-value ≤ 0.05 is accepted. The data show that the intervention can help to improve quality of life, especially two of its dimensions: pain (increases 12 points) and health transition (increases 13 points). It also helped to improve balance, lower body strength, flexibility and agility to a lesser extent. It is concluded that this type of intervention has positive effects for the sample in all the variables mentioned above.

Long term effect of the Pilates method in a reconstructed knee with osteoarthritis: A case report.

BACKGROUND: Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most debilitating diseases, and a patient with a reconstructed knee could develop it early and lives with this condition for an average of 30-years. Furthermore, most studies focus on short-term results, not long-term. The purpose of this article is to show how a patient with reconstructed knees and OA improved clinical outcomes using the Pilates Method (PM) in the long term. METHODS AND MATERIALS: The patient was treated with common medical treatment for 10 years and then treated with the PM for 15 years. Authors used the biomechanics-based approaches, radiographic examination of the knees, magnetic resonance imaging, the numeric pain rating scale, range of motion (ROM), the Polestar fitness screening test (PFST), the knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score questionnaire (KOOS), and the physical function performance-based tests (PFPBT) recommended by Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI). RESULTS: There was an improvement in the evaluated outcomes when using the PM in the long term: a decrease in pain-related scores (constant pain = - 4; worst pain = - 5), improved ROM in 15°, improved stability in both knees (right Lackman Test (LT) = -1; left LT = - 2). When comparing the patient with healthy women in the middle age through the PFPBT her scores are above average, with no restrictions in performing daily activities and a good quality of life according with the KOOS questionnaire. CONCLUSION: This case study suggests that long-term Pilates training may be useful for the treatment of pain, stiffness, and function in patients with reconstructed knees and OA.

Is the Combination of Aerobic Exercise with Mat Pilates Better than Mat Pilates Training Alone on Autonomic Modulation Related to Functional Outcomes in Hypertensive Women? Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Although mat Pilates (MP) has become popular, the effects of MP in hypertensive women (HW) are not entirely clear. Here, we investigated the effects of 16 weeks of MP training contrasted with MP supplemented with aerobic exercise (MP+AE) and compared with a non-intervention group on autonomic modulation, cardiorespiratory fitness, strength, flexibility, performance of functional tasks, QOL, anthropometric variables, clinical BP, and heart rate. METHODS: This is a three-arm, secondary analysis of an RCT. Sixty HW, aged 30 to 59 years, were allocated into: MP only (MP), MP+AE on a treadmill (MP+AE), and Control Group, without exercises. Assessments were performed before and after 16 weeks of training. RESULTS: The ANOVA shows differences in between-group comparisons in the SDNN, rMSSD, and SD1 in the heart rate variability analysis, with increases in rMSSD, SDNN, and SD1 only in the MP, and this result was not found in the MP+AE group (p < 0.05). Differences were observed in the between-group comparisons in time in the cardiorespiratory exercise test (CPX), flexibility, and the waist-to-hip ratio, with changes in the MP+AE, differences in QOL, and increments in the MP and MP+AE (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: MP increased the indices that reflect vagal and global cardiac autonomic modulation. MP+AE improved the CPX performance, flexibility, QOL, and anthropometric variables. These results suggest that MP supplemented or not with AE has promising effects in HW.

The Effect of Mat Pilates Training Combined With Aerobic Exercise Versus Mat Pilates Training Alone on Blood Pressure in Women With Hypertension: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of mat Pilates (MP) versus MP plus aerobic exercise (AE) compared with the effects of no intervention on ambulatory blood pressure (BP) in women with hypertension. METHODS: This 3-arm, parallel-group randomized clinical trial assessed 60 women who had hypertension and were 30 to 59 years old. The intervention lasted 16 weeks, and the participants were allocated into 3 groups: MP only (MP group), MP with alternating bouts of AE on a treadmill (MP + AE group), and control group (CG) with no exercises. Primary outcomes were the effects of the interventions on ambulatory BP assessed in the 24-hour, awake, and asleep periods of analysis. RESULTS: A 2-way analysis of variance did not reveal statistically significant differences in between-group comparisons in the 24-hour period of analysis for systolic BP (CG vs MP = 3.3 [95% CI = -7.1 to 13.8]; MP vs MP + AE = 0.7 [95% CI = -4 to 5.4]; CG vs MP + AE = 4.0 [95% CI = -5.2 to 13.4]), diastolic BP (CG vs MP = 2.2 [95% CI = -5.6 to 10.0]; MP vs MP + AE = 1.1 [95% CI = -4.3 to 6.5]; CG vs MP + AE = 3.3 [95% CI = -3.8 to 10.4]), and heart rate (CG vs MP = 3.4 [95% CI = -2 to 8.8]; MP vs MP + AE = 2.0 [95% CI = -3.4 to 7.5]; CG vs MP + AE = 5.4 [95% CI = -0.8 to 11.8]). The awake and asleep periods of analyses also showed similar behavior and did not reveal statistically significant between-group differences. Furthermore, in the responsiveness analysis based on the minimal clinically important difference, no differences were observed between groups. CONCLUSION: The magnitudes of the decrease in systolic BP during the 24-hour period of analysis were -3 and -5.48 mm Hg for the MP and MP + AE groups, without differences for responsiveness between groups. The results suggest that MP supplemented with AE or not may be an alternative adjuvant treatment for women who have hypertension and are using antihypertension medication. IMPACT: Sixteen weeks of MP training reduced ambulatory BP in women who had hypertension. The MP + AE group displayed a BP reduction similar to that of the MP group. A reduction in ambulatory BP can decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Pilates method on pulmonary function and range of motion after coronary artery bypass grafting: A clinical trial.

INTRODUCTION: Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) can compromise pulmonary function and range of motion (ROM) of the shoulder and knee joints due to median sternotomy and saphenectomy, the Pilates method being a strategy for reducing loss. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of applying the Pilates method on pulmonary function and ROM in patients undergoing CABG. METHOD: ology: This is a clinical trial. Patients were evaluated preoperatively at discharge from the hospital for shoulder flexion and abduction and knee flexion-extension. In addition, vital capacity(VC), maximum inspiratory pressure(MIP), expiratory pressure(MEP) and peak expiratory flow(PEF) were evaluated. Upon discharge from the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), they were divided into a control group(CG) that received conventional assistance and Pilates(PG) was increased with Pilates method techniques. RESULTS: 40 patients were analyzed, 25 were men(61%), with a mean age of 66 ± 7 years. At the end, the left shoulder abduction in the CG was 105±9vs115 ± 8 in the PG(p = 0.03), the right shoulder abduction in the CG 104 ± 11vs116 ± 10 in the PG(p < 0.001) and right knee flexion in the CG 78 ± 13vs92 ± 9 in the PG(0.002). In relation to MIP, the CG had a loss of 32 ± 8 while the PG 18 ± 10cmH2O(p < 0.001), the worsening MEP was 31 ± 9(CG)vs29 ± 11cmH2O(PG)(p = 0.53), the VC in the CG reduced 8±9vs6±8 in the PG(p = 0.23) and the PEF reduced 107 ± 5 in the GCvs83 ± 88 in the PG(p = 0.09). CONCLUSION: It is concluded that the Pilates method decreased the loss of ROM and maximum inspiratory pressure in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting.

The Effects of the Pilates Method on Pelvic Floor Injuries during Pregnancy and Childbirth: A Quasi-Experimental Study.

The perineal injuries suffered during childbirth have a great impact on the quality of life of the female population. Evidence suggests that the Pilates method is used by pregnant women to improve the physical and psychological outcomes of pregnancy. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of the Pilates Method during pregnancy on the incidence and degree of intrapartum perineal trauma. A quasi-experimental study was carried out between November 2018 and December 2019 at different health centers in two health districts. Participants were 72 pregnant women attending the antenatal program, who were assigned to a Pilates group or a control group (48 and 24 pregnant women, respectively). The main outcome measurement was perineal trauma during childbirth. After participating in the Pilates program, the women in the experimental group were significantly less likely to suffer perineal trauma in spontaneous deliveries compared to the women in the control group. After evaluating these results, it is concluded that health center managers should promote the training of midwives in the prevention and treatment of pelvic floor injuries during pregnancy and should consider strategies to enhance adhesion and participation with respect to pelvic floor exercise programs throughout pregnancy by means of Apps and other digital media specifically aimed at this phase.

Efeitos do método pilates sobre a capacidade funcional, fatores antropométricos, marcadores inflamatórios e qualidade de vida em idosas sedentárias / Effects of the pilates method on functional capacity, anthropometric factors, inflammatory markers and quality of life in sedentary elderly women

O objetivo do presente estudo foi investigar os efeitos de exercícios físicos baseados no método Pilates solo sobre a capacidade funcional, fatores antropométricos, níveis de marcadores inflamatórios circulantes e a qualidade de vida em idosas sedentárias. Trata­se de um delineamento quase experimental com pré e pós teste. A amostra foi constituída por 33 mulheres idosas com idade igual ou superior a 60 anos. Para avaliar a capacidade funcional (CF) foram utilizados os testes de velocidade de caminhada (VC) e de força de preensão manual (FPM). Para avaliar a presença de marcadores inflamatórios foram realizados exames laboratoriais a fim de quantificar os níveis séricos de proteína C reativa ultrassensível (PCR-us) e fibrinogênio. E para avaliar a qualidade de vida (QV) foi utilizado o questionário SF ­ 36. Na análise estatística utilizou-se o teste de normalidade Shapiro Wilk. Para os dados paramétricos teste t pareado e ANOVA one Way e, para os dados não paramétricos, o teste Wilcoxon e Kruskal-Wallis. O teste Qui-Quadrado foi utilizado para analises de associações. Os dados foram analisados pelo no programa SPSS-IBM, versão 22.0 devidamente registrado. O nível de significância adotado foi de p≤0,05. O grupo Pilates não apresentou alterações estatisticamente significativas em relação à CF (p>0,05), porém as demais variáveis apresentaram diferença significativa. Para variáveis antropométricas, PCR e fibrinogênio (p < 0,05); e QV, dois domínios apresentaram alterações significativas: limitações por aspectos físicos (p=0,045) e dor (p=0,011). Conclui-se que a prática do método Pilates solo promoveu redução significativa sobre a composição corporal, sobre os níveis séricos de marcadores inflamatórios, sobre a qualidade de vida e manutenção da capacidade funcional de idosas sedentárias. (AU)

The aim of the present study was investigate the effects of exercises based on the Pilates method on functional capacity, anthropometric factors, levels of circulating inflammatory markers and quality of life in sedentary elderly women. It is an almost experimental design with pre and post-test. The sample considered of 33 elderly individuals, aged 60 years and female. In order to evaluate the functional capacity (FC), the tests of walking speed (WS) and manual grip strength (MGS) were used; to evaluate the presence of inflammatory markers, laboratory tests were performed to quantify the serum levels of C-reactive protein and fibrinogen, and the SF-36 questionnaire was used to evaluate the quality of life. For statistical analysis, Shapiro Wilk normality test was used. For parametric data, paired t- test and one-way ANOVA were used, and for nonparametric data, the Wilcoxon and Kruskal -Wallis test. Chi-square test was used for association analysis. All data were analyzed by SPSS-IBM, version 22.0 duly registered and the significance level of p ≤0.05 was stipulated. The Pilates group did not present significant alterations in relation to CF (p> 0.05), but the other variables presented. Anthropometric variables (total body mass, BMI, waist and hip circumference), C-reactive protein and fibrinogen (p< 0,05); and in relation to QV, two domains presented significant changes: limitations by physical aspects (p = 0.045) and pain (p = 0.011). It was concluded that the Pilates solo practice promoted a significant reduction in body composition, serum levels of inflammatory markers, quality of life and maintenance of functional capacity

What is the exercise intensity of Pilates? An analysis of the energy expenditure, blood lactate, and intensity of apparatus and mat Pilates sessions.

BACKGROUND: Pilates is a form of exercise commonly used in rehabilitation settings that improves muscular fitness and flexibility. However, it is unknown whether the energy expenditure (EE) from Pilates sessions could also lead to the intensity suggested by health organizations to improve physical fitness. This study aimed to quantify and compare the intensity and the EE of two different Pilates sessions (mat and apparatus). METHODS: 18 healthy females (age: 22 ± 3 years; height: 1.6 ± 0.1m; body mass: 61.0 ± 10.0 kg; body mass index: 21 ± 3 kg/m2) performed two different sessions. Each session involved the performance of 15 exercises. Oxygen consumption (V˙O2) was measured continuously and then converted to EE in Kcal/min. Blood lactate, heart rate (HR), and blood pressure (BP) were also measured. A repeated measures two-way ANOVA (time X group) determined differences between sessions. Bonferroni's post hoc analysis was used to identify significant differences between measures. RESULTS: The Reformer apparatus and Mat sessions presented an EE of 2.59 ± 0.53 and 1.93 ± 0.26 kcal/min, respectively. V˙O2 was higher for the Reformer session (8.67 ± 1.15 ml/kg/min) when compared to Mat (6.44 ± 0.73 ml/kg/min). There was no significant increase in blood lactate, HR, and BP for either session above resting values. CONCLUSION: The Pilates sessions analyzed in this study elicit low cardiovascular stress, leading to low EE levels. However, a typical session performed on the Reformer apparatus presented a higher EE, V˙O2, and HR compared to the Mat Pilates session.

Aporte del método pilates a la terapéutica de los cuadros dolorosos

RESUMEN El Método Pilates es un sistema de acondicionamiento físico y mental de baja a moderada intensidad que se enfoca en utilizar principalmente la respiración, la contracción muscular, y la flexibilidad muscular, en coordinación a una ejecución controlada y fluida de cada movimiento corporal. Aunque la evidencia aún es limitada en cuanto a su efectividad, existen estudios que demuestran mejoría en la salud de las personas que lo practican. El objetivo de esta revisión fue resaltar la utilidad del Método Pilates como herramienta terapéutica para el manejo de cuadros dolorosos sobre todo aquellos originados por trastornos musculoesqueléticos. Esta fue una revisión narrativa no sistemática, de literatura primaria, la búsqueda seleccionada fue extraída de SciELO, PubMed y Elsevier. Como criterio de inclusión se tuvo en cuenta investigaciones que incluyeron personas de todas las edades con diferentes afecciones físicas sobre todo aquellas que cursan con dolor por trastorno musculoesquelético, además se tuvieron en cuenta aquellas asociadas a afecciones psíquicas y sociales.

ABSTRACT The Pilates Method is a physical and mental conditioning system of low to moderate intensity that focuses primarily on using breathing, muscle contraction, and muscle flexibility, in coordination with a controlled and fluid execution of each body movement. Although the evidence is still limited in its effectiveness, there are studies that demonstrate improvement in the health of people who practice it. The objective of this review was to high-light the usefulness of Pilates Method as a therapeutic tool for the management of painful conditions, especially those caused by musculoskeletal disorders. This was a non-systematic narrative review of primary literature, the selected search was extracted from SciELO, PubMed, and Elsevier. As inclusion criteria, research that included people of all ages with different physical conditions were taken into account, especially those who experience pain due to musculoskeletal disorders, and those associated with psychic and social conditions were also taken into account.

Electromyographic evaluation of trunk core muscles during Pilates exercise on different supporting bases.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the electromyographic (EMG) activity of the rectus abdominis (RA) and internal oblique (IO) muscles during Pilates exercise on different trunk supporting bases. METHODS: Sixteen female Pilates practitioners participated in the study. EMG of the RA and OI muscles was evaluated during the double leg stretch (DLS) exercise on three different supporting bases - mat, long box, and short box. Trunk stability varies according to the size and type of the base. To normalize the data, the RMS value (EMG) obtained during the DLS exercise was divided by the RMS value from the torque test - the maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) - and multiplied by 100 (%MVIC). One-way repeated-measured analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Bonferroni tests were used to compare data concerning the supporting bases and Student t-test regarding the muscles (p < 0.05). RESULTS: The comparison among the bases involving each muscle - RA or IO (p < 0.05) - showed significant difference (%MVIC) between the mat and the short box. No significant difference was observed between the muscles concerning the exercise on the mat (p = 0.9266), on the long box (p = 0.5113) and on the short box (p = 0.2972). CONCLUSION: The short box increased the activity of the rectus abdominis and internal oblique muscles during exercise. The DLS exercise was able to challenge the stability of the trunk and thus recruit its stabilizer and mobilizer muscles at the same intensity.

One Year of Pilates Training for Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Pilot Study.

Objectives: This prospective long-term study examines the effects of a Pilates training intervention on spinal mobility, disease activity, and functional capacity in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Design: The study design was quasi experimental and single blind. Subjects: 11 subjects were recruited among patients undergoing followup of AS diagnosed according to modified New York criteria at the rheumatology clinic. Interventions: Over a 12-month period, 11 patients completed a training program consisting of two sessions per week of selected Pilates exercises. There was no control group. Outcome measures: The primary outcome variable was functional capacity measured using the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index (BASFI) questionnaire. Exploratory outcome measures were Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI), Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Metrology Index (BASMI), and chest expansion and fingertip-to-floor (FTF) test. Baseline and follow-up examinations were performed immediately before the intervention and during the course of treatment at 4, 8, and 12 months. Results: After the exercise intervention, improvements were observed in BASFI (77.51%), BASDAI (64.39%) and BASMI (58.95%) scores, FTF distance (71.92%), and chest expansion (88.74%). Conclusions: These findings suggest that Pilates training could be useful in AS patients and provide direction for larger controlled trials designed to determine the therapeutic benefits of Pilates in the management of these patients.

BENEFÍCIOS DO MÉTODO PILATES ASSOCIADO À EDUCAÇÃO EM SAÚDE NA SOBRECARGA E QUALIDADE DE VIDA DE CUIDADORES DE PACIENTES NEUROLÓGICOS / BENEFITS OF THE PILATES METHOD ASSOCIATED WITH HEALTH EDUCATION IN OVERLOAD AND QUALITY OF LIFE OF NEUROLOGICAL PATIENTS

Este trabalho teve como objetivo verificar as contribuições do Método Pilates e das orientações posturais na dor, na qualidade de vida e na sobrecarga de cuidadores de pacientes neurológicos. Trata-se de um estudo do tipo série de casos, o qual foi realizado na clínica escola de fisioterapia da Unicesumar com dez cuidadores independente do sexo, com idade variando entre 40 a 65 anos. Inicialmente os cuidadores foram submetidos a uma avaliação da dor através da Escala Visual Analógica (EVA); da qualidade de vida pelo questionário SF-36 e de sobrecarga por meio do questionário de Avaliação do Cuidador Informal (QASCI). Após a avaliação, os mesmos receberam orientações posturais gerais relacionadas ao posicionamento correto para exercer atividades de vida diárias (AVDs) e foram submetidos a dez sessões com o método Pilates na bola suíça. Ao término do tratamento, os cuidadores foram reavaliados com os mesmos instrumentos para verificar os resultados alcançados e os dados foram submetidos à análise estatística e interferencial, apresentados em formas de gráficos e tabelas, utilizando o programa estatístico Statistical Package for Social Science versão 20 e empregados os testes Kolmogorov-Smirnov e T-Student. Nesse estudo, concluiu-se que o Método Pilates proporcionou a redução da dor e da sobrecarga de cuidadores de pacientes neurológicos. Em relação a qualidade de vida os resultados mais favoráveis foram observados nos domínios capacidade funcional, limitação por aspectos físicos, estado geral da saúde e saúde mental.

This present study aims at verifying the contributions of Pilates Method and guidance the postural advices when in pain, on the quality of life and on the overload of neurological caregivers. This is a study of series reports and it was performed at a school clinic of physiotherapy at Unicesumar´s University, with ten caregivers regardless of gender, with ages varying from 40 to 65 years. At first, the caregivers were subjected to a pain evaluation based on Visual Analog Scale (VAS); from the questionnaire of quality of life SF-36 and the overload by the questionnaire of assessment of the informal caregivers (QAIC). After the evaluation, they received general postural orientations related to properly positioning in the performance of daily life activities (AVDs) and were submitted to ten sections of the Pilates Method on the Swiss Ball. By the end of the treatment, the caregivers were revaluated with the same instruments in order to verify the achieved results. All data were sent to statistical and interferential assessment, For the statistical treatment of the study data the SPSS(Statistical Package for Social Science) version of 20.0 was used and the following statistics tests were employed Kolmogorov-Smirnov and T-Student. The study concluded that Pilates Method afforded the reduction of pain and the overload of neurological caregivers. In relation to the quality of life, the favorable results were verified in the field of functional capacity and limitation by the physical appearance, general state of health and mental health.

Pilates method in the treatment of patients with Chikungunya fever: a randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of the Pilates method on the reduction of pain, improvement of joint function, and quality of life of patients with chronic Chikungunya fever. DESIGN: This is a randomized, controlled, blind trial for the evaluators. SETTING: The study was conducted at the Advanced Laboratory in Physical Education and Health at Federal University of Pernambuco, Brazil. SUBJECTS: A total of 51 patients were allocated randomly and divided into 2 groups: a Pilates group (26 patients) and a control group (25 patients). After 12 weeks, 4 patients in the Pilates group and 5 in the control group were lost to follow-up. INTERVENTION: The Pilates group performed 24 Pilates method intervention sessions; the control group continued to receive standard clinical treatment at the outpatient clinic. MAIN MEASURES: The main measures were as follows: visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain, functional capacity evaluated by Health Assessment Questionaire (HAQ), quality of life measured by the 12-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-12), and range of joint motion by goniometry. RESULTS: After 12 weeks, patients in the Pilates group presented lower VAS (P < 0.001), lower HAQ scores (P < 0.001), and higher quality-of-life scores (P < 0.001) compared with the control group. We found statistically significant results for the Pilates group in the range of movement for shoulder, knee, ankle, and lumbar spine (P < 0.001). In the intragroup analysis, there was a significant improvement in all outcomes evaluated. CONCLUSION: In this study, patients undertaking Pilates method for 12 weeks had less pain, better function and quality of life, and increased range of joint movement.

Effectiveness of the Pilates method versus aerobic exercises in the treatment of older adults with chronic low back pain: a randomized controlled trial protocol.

BACKGROUND: Chronic low back pain is potentially disabling for older adults, and exercise is considered the best treatment. The Pilates method and aerobic exercises have been proven to be effective in pain and function improvement in patients with low back pain, but evidence in the treatment of older adults with low back pain is scarce. Therefore, the objective of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of the Pilates method compared to aerobic exercises in the treatment of older adults with chronic nonspecific low back pain. METHODS: This is a randomized controlled trial with blinded assessor, to be held in a physical therapy clinic in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Seventy four patients aged 65 to 85 years with chronic nonspecific pain will be randomized into Pilates Group (n = 37) with exercises based on the Pilates method and Aerobic Group (n = 37) with treadmill aerobic exercise. The primary outcomes will be pain intensity and general disability, assessed eight weeks after randomization. The secondary outcomes will be: pain intensity and general disability, assessed six months after randomization; and global perceived improvement, specific disability, dynamic balance, muscle strength (gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, and lateral hip rotators), and pressure pain threshold, assessed eight weeks and six months after randomization. Therapists and patients will not be blinded. DISCUSSION: This study has the potential to reduce pain and, consequently, improve balance and function of older adults with chronic low back pain with both therapies. However, Pilates may be more effective because the exercises are more targeted to the trunk stabilization muscles. The results of this study may provide valuable information on the effects of Pilates and aerobic exercise in older adults with chronic low back pain and contribute to a better selection of the treatment program according to the patient preference. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02729779 , April 6, 2016.

Método Pilates: benefí­cios e aplicabilidade para melhorar a qualidade de vida / Pilates method: benefits and applicability to improve the quality of life

O método Pilates de condicionamento corporal foi criado por Joseph H. Pilates, que transmitiu os benefícios de um equilíbrio perfeito entre corpo e mente, e chamou de Contrologia, coordenação completa do corpo, da mente e do espírito. Utilizando princípios específicos para promover a integração entre eles, que são a concentração, centro de força (power house), fluidez, precisão, respiração e controle dos movimentos. Como o número de praticantes do método Pilates tem aumentado muito nas últimas décadas demonstra a necessidade de evidências científicas sobre os benefícios desse método. Sendo assim, este artigo teve como objetivo geral verificar através de um levantamento bibliográfico no qual foram realizadas buscas sistematizadas em três bases de dados eletrônicas (Lilacs, Scielo e Google Acadêmico). Os termos de busca utilizados nas bases foram Pilates, método Pilates, indicações do método Pilates e contraindicações do método Pilates. Dentre os resultados, verificou-se que o método Pilates é utilizado como recurso para condicionamento físico e mental em diversas áreas da saúde, e os estudos analisados evidenciaram a eficácia do método Pilates como ferramenta na prevenção, promoção, reabilitação e melhora da qualidade de vida das pessoas que o praticam. (AU)

The Pilates method of body conditioning was created by Joseph H. Pilates, who conveyed the benefits of a perfect balance between body and mind, and called Contrology, complete coordination of body, mind and spirit. Using specific principles to promote integration between them, they are concentration, power house, fluidity, precision, breathing and movement control. Since the number of Pilates practitioners has increased greatly in the last decades, scientific evidence on the benefits of the Pilates method is needed. Therefore, this article had as general objective to verify through a bibliographic survey carried out in three electronic databases (Lilacs, Scielo and Academic Google). The search terms used in the bases were Pilates, Pilates method, Pilates method indications and contraindications of the Pilates method. Among the results it was verified that the Pilates method is used as a resource for physical and mental conditioning in several areas of health and the studies analyzed demonstrated the effectiveness of the Pilates method as a tool in prevention, promotion, rehabilitation and improvement of people's quality of life who practice it. (AU)

Effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the modified Pilates method versus aerobic exercise in the treatment of patients with fibromyalgia: protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Fibromyalgia is characterized by chronic generalized pain, fatigue, sleep disorders and other symptoms. Physical exercise is recommended as the first choice of non-pharmacological therapy. Thus, the aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of modified Pilates exercises compared to aerobic exercises in the treatment of patients with fibromyalgia. METHODS: In this randomized controlled trial with blinded assessor, 98 patients who meet the fibromyalgia classification criteria of the American College of Rheumatology 2010, aged between 20 and 75 years, and with pain intensity greater than or equal to 3 points in the Pain Numerical Rating Scale, will be randomly divided into Aerobic Group (aerobic exercises on treadmills or stationary bikes) and Pilates Group (modified Pilates exercises), and treated twice a week for eight weeks on the Center for Excellence in Clinical Research in Physical Therapy at Universidade Cidade de São Paulo, Brazil. The following outcomes will be evaluated by a blinded assessor at baseline, eight weeks, six months, and 12 months after randomization: impact of fibromyalgia assessed by the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire, pain intensity by the Pain Numerical Rating Scale, kinesiophobia by the Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia, specific disability by the Patient-Specific Functional Scale, functional capacity by the 6-min Walk Test, quality of sleep by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and health-related quality of life by EQ-5D-3L and SF-6D questionnaires. DISCUSSION: It is expected that the Pilates exercises will be more effective than aerobic exercises in improving clinical outcomes and that this improvement will be maintained over the medium to long term. This study aims to clarify whether the Pilates method can be incorporated into the clinical practice of physical therapists treating patients with fibromyalgia. The study will also provide information on which exercise will be most cost-effective, information that can be used by insurers and public health systems. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This study was prospectively registered at the Clinical Trials Registry (NCT03050606) in February 2017.

Niveles de salud psicológica y laboral en practicantes de Pilates / Levels of Psychological and Occupational Health in Pilates Adherents

Resumen Actualmente, la práctica de Pilates carece de fundamentación científica sólida que establezca beneficios sobre la salud psicológica. El objetivo principal del presente trabajo fue analizar si los participantes que combinan Pilates con otras Actividades Físico-Deportivas (AFD) presentaban puntuaciones más altas en las variables psicosociales y laborales estudiadas que practicantes de Pilates, practicantes de otras AFD diferentes al Pilates y participantes sedentarios. El segundo objetivo fue comprobar si los años de experiencia practicando Pilates, de forma aislada, influían positivamente sobre las variables estudiadas. El cuestionario de autoeficacia (AEG), autoestima (RSE), personalidad situacional (CPS), optimismo (LOT-R), satisfacción laboral (S10/12) y engagement (UWES) fueron completados por 212 participantes con una edad media de 41.83 años (DT = 12.41). Los practicantes de Pilates asistían a centros especializados en la técnica Pilates original. La metodología empleada fue de corte transversal. Las puntuaciones más altas en autoeficacia, estabilidad emocional, autoconcepto, optimismo y satisfacción con las prestaciones recibidas obtenidas por el grupo que combina Pilates con otras AFD no son estadísticamente significativas frente al resto de los grupos. Sin embargo, los minutos semanales de AFD correlacionan significativamente con la autoeficacia, el autoconcepto y la tendencia optimista. Los resultados del segundo objetivo muestran diferencias significativas en las variables autoeficacia y autoconcepto entre los practicantes más expertos de Pilates con respecto a los principiantes. Como conclusión, no se detectan diferencias significativas entre los grupos analizados, pero una práctica continuada y regular de Pilates en el tiempo, superior a 5 años, puede reportar interesantes beneficios psicológicos.

Abstract: Currently, the practice of Pilates lacks a solid scientific foundation that establishes benefits on psychological health. The main objective of the present work was to analyze whether participants who combine Pilates with otherPhysical Sports Activities (PSA) had higher scores in psychosocial and work variables studied than Pilates adherents, devotees of other PSAs other than Pilates and sedentary participants. The second objective was to check whether years of experience practicing Pilates, in isolation, had a positive influence on the variables studied. Two hundred twelve participants completed the self-efficacy questionnaire (GSE), self-esteem (RSE), situational personality (CPS), optimism (LOT-R), job satisfaction (S10/12) and engagement (UWES) questionnaires with an average age of 41.83 years (SD = 12.41). Adherents of Pilates attended centers specialized in original Pilates techniques. The methodology used was cross-sectional. The highest scores on self-efficacy, emotional stability, self-concept, optimism and satisfaction with the benefits received by the group that combines Pilates with other PSAs are not statistically significant compared to the rest of the groups. However, the weekly minutes of PSA correlate significantly with self-efficacy, self-concept and optimistic tendency. The results of the second objective show significant differences in the self-efficacy and self-concept variables among the most expert Pilates adherents with respect to beginners. In conclusion, no significant differences were detected between the analyzed groups, but a continued and regular practice of Pilates over time (more than 5 years), may provide interesting psychological benefits