According to a study published in the journal Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, both Pilates and yoga were found to be effective exercises for people with chronic lower back pain.
However, the study found that yoga was more effective than Pilates for reducing lower back pain.
So, if you are suffering from lower back pain, it is recommended that you try yoga instead of Pilates.
But still, some will suggest Pilates for back pain relief as the cure option.
This actually varies from person to person or the severity of the problem. Therefore, Pilates is another option to reduce lower back pain.
This blog is on yoga or pilates for lower back pain covers some important pieces of information that can surely help you.
Pilates For Lower Back Pain and Sciatica and Hips
In order to prevent and treat lower back pain, it is important to learn how to practice Pilates.
Pilates is an exercise that will help to strengthen the hips and lower back. However, you must know the process to use.
You should always remember to be careful when you are bending and moving, especially when you are carrying something.
If you are planning for it, Pilates for lower back pain and sciatica and hips will be the best option.
For Lower Back Pain
The Neutral Spine position is taught in Joseph Pilates philosophy and is used as the most functional position for our bodies.
The curves in our spine are used to create stability and mobility for taking on the weight and pressure of our daily lives.
If you feel pain in your hips and lower back, it is likely because you are not in the neutral spine position.
Learning how to do the Neutral Spine position is a simple, yet powerful way to help improve your posture and make your back and hips happy.
So, how do you do the Neutral Spine position?
- Start on all fours. It is important to use your hands and knees to start. You do not want your knees to directly overhang your hands. This will cause the hips to be in an open position.
- Next, lift up to a sitting position. If you lift your hips up, you will be creating a curve in your lower back. You do not want to lift your hips up, because you will be creating the curve in your lower back.
- Next, lift your hips up higher.
- Finally, you will end in a push-up position. Again, it is important that you do not lift your hips up to the point that you create a curve in your lower back. You should be able to do this pose in a few reps.
Moving further, let’s have a look at what comes with sciatica.
For Sciatica
If you’re looking for a way to relieve sciatic nerve pain, consider Pilates.
The combination of exercise and stretching is shown to help with sciatica symptoms, and this is possible because it strengthens and loosens the muscles in the back and hips.
Place your hands on either side of your head comfortably. Inhale, as you exhale, push your head and chest away from the floor to extend the elbows.
Only as far as you feel comfortable.
You must hold your tummy and buttock muscle gently so as not to center on the joints in your back.
For Hips
To start with, you start on your mat with your head, shoulders, and hips in one line.
You can use a wall or the back edge of your mat to help line you up. Then, you need to move your knees and feet to the side while you keep your hips in line with your shoulders and head.
Stay here for a few seconds and then return to the center.
You will repeat this movement a total of 10 times.
Pilates for hips and lower back has been proved very effective nowadays.
But, What If Pilates Causing Lower Back Pain?
Let’s have a look into this in this blog on yoga or pilates for lower back pain.
Is Pilates Causing Lower Back Pain Within You?
If you are suffering from lower back pain, you should remember that Pilates is a mat and chair exercise program.
This can lead to poor posture.
This is because the mat position is uncomfortable for your back. That’s why many people suffering from lower back pain prefer chair exercise to mat exercise.
But, this does not mean that you should not try Pilates.
You should always remember that the right exercise is the safest exercise.
If you are worried about your back, you should consult your doctor. This is because there are certain exercises that are harmful to your back.
Yoga or Pilates: Which is the Best for Lower Back Pain?
Now you are thinking, yoga or Pilates for lower back pain, what will be the best?
Well, both have been found to be effective in reducing lower back pain.
However, the study found that yoga is more effective than Pilates.
But, if you are suffering from sciatica, it is recommended that you opt for Pilates.
This is because Pilates is the most effective exercise program for sciatica.
Is Pilates Reformer Good for Lower Back Pain?
Pilates reformer exercises are one of the best ways to exercise for the lower back.
These exercises will help to target the lower back, strengthen the core muscles and prevent back pain.
It is important to note that you should not be doing any of these exercises if you have back pain as it is important not to restrict your movement too much if you have back pain.
Pilates reformer classes are not cheap. However, they are not unaffordable. The average cost per class is about $60 per hour, which can be prohibitive for many people.
If you plan on using the reformer regularly, however, the cost may be well worth it.
It is a good investment for anyone who wants to take their Pilates to the next level and improve their health and fitness.
Pilates or Yoga: Conclusion
So, which one is better?
It really depends on your situation. Pilates for back pain relief is more effective. But, you can always try yoga.
This is because yoga is an effective exercise program for lower back pain. It is also helpful in reducing sciatica.
It is true that Pilates and yoga are both great exercise programs. But, they are also different.
It is always recommended that you consult a doctor or a fitness expert before starting a new program.
Because it’s always true, that prevention is better than cure.
Also Learn>> Yoga vs Gym better Workout Form you should Usually Prefer.