Special Populations

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is one of the most common neurological conditions worldwide. It is a chronic, unpredictable disease that targets the central nervous system (CNS) that causes balance difficulties, gait abnormalities, single side weakness, spasticity, and bladder/bowel issues. More than 2.3 million people worldwide are affected, with many more women than men developing it.

Parkinson's Disease (PD) is a long-term degenerative disease of the CNS that can cause symptoms like tremors, rigidity, balance, cognitive changes and gait problems among others. Affecting 53 million people worldwide, it occurs more frequently in males than females over age 60. Symptoms for both of these conditions can appear longbefore an official diagnosis.

Strokes occur when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted causing brain cell death and can happen at any age. Common symptoms include balance and coordination problems, same side weakness, bladder/bowel problems, spasticity, gait and speech problems.

Why is Pilates the ideal exercise system for neurological conditions? Pilates can address nearly every major symptom of these conditions and qualified Pilates instructors are uniquely trained to note posture and movement. Pilates' spring-based equipment can serve as "preventative rehab", connecting the breath with movement and speed up the neuromuscular recovery process.

Phoenix Pilates and Rossiter Center hosted an international neurological conditions workshop, drawing instructors from Canada, California, Utah, Nevada as well as Arizona. The intensive course included information on the diseases, symptoms, and the design of individual-specific programming as each client and each day is different. We received the latest research in neuroplasticity with innovative exercises designed to form new neural pathways and bypass central nervous system damage. These exercises are applicable to most neurological conditions, and were selected based on research on MS, stroke, and Parkinson's disease.

We invite  anyone with a neurological or auto-immune condition  to discover how Pilates can help improve your quality of life. Contact Deborah Lavinsky, NCPT 602-318-5068 or deb@bellabodypilates.com to schedule your appointment.