Pilates for Scoliosis
Over the past twenty years clients have been coming to Mongoose Bodyworks to help with back pain caused by scoliosis. Every spine is unique, and no two scoliotic spines are the same. While we cannot “cure” scoliosis, we can design a custom Pilates session that targets the spinal curves, improves alignment and brings much needed relief.
What is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a lateral deviation of the spine that in often accompanied by spinal rotation. Scoliosis is either congenital (you are born with it), idiopathic (it develops for unknown reasons) or functional (caused by surgery or poor postural habits). In all cases, the goal is the same – to bring the spine as close to the midline of the body as possible.
How does Pilates for scoliosis work?
At our Pilates studio we start each first session with assessment tools to “map” your scoliosis. This gives us a picture of how how spine moves, where the strongest curves are and how how pelvis and shoulders are affected. This information allows us to design exercises specific to your needs. There are three main observations that are critical to you understanding your scoliosis.
- Are your hips shifted to one side?
- Is there a part of your spine that you tend to collapse into?
- Are your ribs flared open and shifted to one side?
This information will not only inform the instructor’s choice of exercises but will also function as a guideline for you to make your own adjustments as you go through your daily activities. As movement educators, we see our work as a collaboration with our clients. Our most successful stories are ones in which the client see themselves as an active part of the process.
Pilates, Scoliosis and Axial Elongation
In addition to identifying the imbalances unique to your spine we also teach you how to create more space between each vertebra, this is referred to as axial elongation. We do this with breath, movement and Pilates equipment and props. This is one of the most powerful ways to create relief and move towards a pain free life.
More about Pilates
Pilates is a type of exercise that focuses on the body’s core muscles, allowing for improved posture, balance, and flexibility. When taught by an experienced instructor, Pilates can improve spinal issues and improve overall physical health. Pilates also encourages mindful practices such as focusing on the breath, allowing you to become more aware of your body and the way it moves. Pilates is an excellent form of exercise for those living with scoliosis.
Mongoose Bodyworks and Scoliosis
At Mongoose Bodyworks, we believe that our tailored Pilates sessions can be a wonderful way to manage scoliosis. Our assessment tools and personalized programs help us create a safe and effective experience for each client. We also offer ongoing support and advice to ensure that the client is getting the most out of their program. By combining physical activity with mindful movement practices, you can help to manage scoliosis and live comfortably. If you or someone you know has scoliosis, do not hesitate to contact us at Mongoose Bodyworks. We are here to help you find relief and improved posture through Pilates.
Mongoose Bodyworks is a boutique Pilates studio in Soho NYC that focuses on delivering customized private sessions designed for your exact needs.
Halle Clarke NCPT is a 2nd generation master teacher having studied closely with two of the great NYC protégés of Joseph Pilates: Kathy Grant and Romana Krysanowska. Halle opened Mongoose Bodyworks, a boutique Pilates Studio that offers personalized Pilates sessions in New York City in 1999.
As well as training in Pilates Halle has pursued studies in ideokensiology, anatomy, biomechanics, muscle energy technique, trigger point therapy, neuromuscular re-patterning, Alexander technique, The Feldenkrais Method, Polarity therapy and Cranio-Sacral Therapy. She has additional certifications from the PMA-CPT and ACE. Halle integrates all of her extensive studies of the body into her work as a New-York based Pilates Instructor and Teacher Trainer.
She has been conducting Pilates Teacher Trainings for Balanced Body since 2006 both in New York and around the country. Halle has taught Master Pilates classes nationally and internationally, including at The PMA Conference and Mind Body Expo.
