Physical therapy meets pilates

“Pilates is a form of exercise originally used for dancers to lengthen the muscles and improve posture,” she says. Now Dunn helps her own patients use basic Pilates moves as a part of the healing process for back injuries. “It’s not stressful on the joints as it stretches the back muscles,” explains Dunn, “and it strengthens abdominal muscles while keeping the spine in a neutral position.”

Marilu Dunn, a physical therapist at Kessler Rehabilitation Center in Hackensack (201.342.1404, kesslerrehabilitationcenter.com) turned to Pilates when she injured her neck dancing several years ago. “Pilates is a form of exercise originally used for dancers to lengthen the muscles and improve posture,” she says. Now Dunn helps her own patients use basic Pilates moves as a part of the healing process for back injuries. “It’s not stressful on the joints as it stretches the back muscles,” explains Dunn, “and it strengthens abdominal muscles while keeping the spine in a neutral position.” She’s not the only PT who’s turning to this popular fitness practice. According to Jennifer Gamboa, a physical therapist and spokesperson for the American Physical Therapy Association, “in the last 10 years, the popularity of incorporating Pilates moves into physical therapy practices has really grown. It’s such a good match to help clients train their abs and protect their lower backs.”

Want to try? Start with the Scoop: Lie on your back, with both knees bent and your feet flat on the ground, knees and feet in line with your hips. Place the palm of your hand underneath your lower back. Tighten your abs and gently push your back down toward your hand, doing a small pelvic tilt movement. Hold for 10 seconds, breathing deeply. Release for 30 seconds, then repeat 7-8 times. Aim to do it daily.