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Pilates Exercises After Back Surgery

Americans are no strangers to back surgeries. According to a 2008 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, the United States sees about 1.2 million spinal surgeries every year. The same study reported that the percentage of U.S. residents seeking medical attention for back pain increased from 12 percent in 2000 to 15 percent in 2005. It's not easy to recover from a major back surgery, but regularly performing Pilates exercises that are easy on the back can help you stay fit during the healing process.

  1. Flat on the floor is best

    • Performing certain Pilates exercises, mostly those done from a lying position, can help you keep fit as you recover from back surgery. But it's important to craft a Pilates exercise routine that doesn't place additional stress on your back. You should only lift light weights, and be sure to lift with your leg muscles, not your back, after a recent back surgery. You should also avoid twisting or side-bending exercises. It's best to meet with your doctor first before performing any Pilates exercises. Your doctor will be able to tell you which exercises to avoid and which ones are appropriate following spinal surgery.

    Working your way back

    • It can be hard to stay physically fit after a major back surgery. The U.S. Pilates Association says that certain Pilates exercises can help because they strengthen the back without straining it. The association recommends that patients recovering from back surgery concentrate on Pilates exercises that are done while patients lie flat on their backs with their knees bent in the air. If you attempt Pilates while recovering from back surgery, make sure to keep your tailbone flat on the floor at all times. This will allow you to exercise the muscles in your legs, arms, neck and shoulders without placing unwelcome stress on your recovering back.

    Variety is important

    • If you prefer some variety, and if your doctor gives the OK, you can also lift medium weights. Just make sure to bend your legs and keep your back flat when doing this. This way, your leg muscles will receive the impact of lifting weights, and not your recovering back. Officials with the United States Pilates Association also say that regular Pilates routines can help you avoid back surgeries because they strengthen the back.

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