Pilates and Lymphedema

Pilates is beneficial exercise.

Introduction

Pilates, which were named for Joseph Pilates, is based on the concept of "contrololgy," which aims to coordinate mind, body and spirit. Many of the more than 500 exercises developed by Joseph Pilates were influenced by yoga and Tai chi. If you practice yoga or Tai chi, you may find that many of the exercises  seem familiar.

Pilates is a mind/body exercise technique that stretches and lengthens the body with flowing movements. It is unique because many of the exercises are performed lying down in a gravity reduced or eliminated position. Thus, one does not have to stand. Instead you can exercise in a positon that is supine (lying face up), prone (lying face down) or side lying position. This allows the body to be centered and the spine to be aligned with less stress on the neck and back.

Why Pilates for Lymphedema

• Pilates includes abdominal exercises; however, if you have recently received a TRAM Flap reconstruction, the abdominal exercises may not be appropriate for you.
• These exercises are particularly recommended for breast cancer survivors who face many physical challenges after undergoing breast cancer surgery and treatment including the possibility of developing lymphedema.
• Pilates is an exercise method that can help both body and mind recover and rehabilitate gradually and slowly from the physical stress of the treatments and the emotional stress of a facing a life threatening condition.
• Pilates is a natural for lymphedema management because the abdominal exercises are combined with proper breathing techniques. These actions enhance the pumping of lymph into the thoracic duct and this stimulates the return of lymph from the left side of the neck, left arm, trunk and legs.
• One breathing pattern involves an inhalation to prepare for the exercise and an exhalation as you perform it. This emphasis upon breathing works the deep transverse rectus abdominus muscles, ensures that the body is stable, and promotes relaxation.
• Pilates does not require heavy weights or repetitive arm motions therefore it is an excellent exercise program for gradually strengthening the at risk arm.
• Pilates program includes scapular (shoulder blade) stabilization exercises that are important for shoulder mobility and strength. Since an arm swollen by lymphedema places abnormal strain on the shoulder, these exercises can be particularly important.
• Pilates helps to correct posture that changes after breast surgery. Since the body is now out of balance, the back may become rounded, and the shoulders and head are in a forward position. Pilates teaches how to resume an erect posture with a neutral spine and then works on restoring strength.
• Pilates exercises are permormed when focusing and concentrating on how your body feels when it is correctly aligned. Therefore, each exercise is performed efficiently and with control. In addition, there are specific Pilates exercises such as body extension and swimming which can help stretch the tight chest muscles while strengthening the back. These activities help one to regain proper muscle balance and to strengthed the back thereby promoting proper posture.
• Pilates practitioners may use visual imagery to help you connect your mind and body to the exercise. This is unique, and another way of helping you to perform the exercise correctly.

Important Tips to Consider Before you Begin:

• Always obtain doctors clearance before participating in Pilates or any exercise program.
• Be sure to obtain a baseline DEXA (bone density test) to determine if you have low bone density (osteopenia) or thinning bones (osteoporosis). The bending and twisting of the spine are not recommended if you have these conditions and there are many Pilates exercises use these movements. However, many of the exercises can be modified to meet your individual needs.
• Work with a Pilates practitioner who has experience with the special issues faced by breast cancer survivors and lymphedema patients. It is important to seek out someone who can adapt or change the exercises to meet your needs.
• Make sure that your instructor is qualified.There is no regulation of theseinstructors. Occupational therapists and physical therapists are learning Pilates in greater numbers and are oriented towards proper body mechanics and rehabilitation.
• Wear a well fitted compression garment when exercising. The exception is when swimming because then the water provides the necessary compression.
• Take individual sessions before joining a Pilates group. This enables you to receive individual attention as you learn the basics such as neutral spine, breathing and control before embarking on group sessions.
• Nothing should be painful. If an activity is uncomfortable, speak up so that the exercise can be changed to suit your body!!
• Release unwanted tension from the body prior to starting each session. Pilates is relaxing, yet you should feel energized, alert and stronger after participation.
• In the words of Joseph Pilates, "Concentrate on the correct movements each time you exercise, lest you do them improperly and thus lose all the vital benefits of their value."

Pilates takes mental focus, concentration, and physical work to do it correctly. Don't give up as the benefits will become apparent as you gain mastery!! The benefits should be clearly demonstrated if you keep at it and gradually build up by participating at least two times a week.

Pilates is a way to reconnect with a body that may be in pain and feels lost after breast cancer. I have found Pilates to be a useful tool in rehabilitation for breast cancer survivors and am excited to see the response of those with lymphedema. I encourage you to find a qualified Pilates teacher who can help you to reclaim your body.

Special Thanks

Many thanks to Naomi Aaronson MA OTR/L CHT, the founder of Recovercises for Wellness, for sharing this information with us. Naomi is an occupational therapist and fitness instructor who believes that exercise is essential in recovery. She specializes in breast cancer recovery and rehabilitation and her mission statement includes the following, "take back your body and improve your physical and emotional health." To learn more about Pilates and Recovercises, visit her Recovercises for Wellness website.

© LymphNotes.com 2009.This information does not replace the advice of a qualified health care professional.

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Category: Living With Lymphedema Updated: 2009-07-28