Pilates for Spinal Disc Injuries – Strength & Recovery
Learn how Pilates supports managing spinal disc conditions. Effective exercises improve strength, mobility, and prevent further strain.
“In 2004 I had an accident which left me with three prolapsing discs in my lumbar spine, chronic lower back pain and sciatica. For five years, the only way I could manage my pain was through prescribed pain killers and muscle relaxants. I was approaching my thirties but I felt very old, immobile and depressed. There were days when my husband had to help me wash, dress, and tie up my shoes, because I was unable to do any of those basic functions by myself.
In 2009 our mutual friend, who is also a personal trainer, introduced me to Pilates. I wanted him to help me build muscles but when he put me on the treadmill I was unable to stand upright, let alone run, that’s how weak my core was!
We started with very basic Pilates exercises on the mat: pelvic curl, single leg lifts, chest lift. I remember it was very frustrating: I could not understand how such small movements could make anyone feel better, I had difficulties concentrating on mindful breathing, and I didn’t want to accept the fact that I need to surrender fighting my body and to start listening to it.
After six months of regular practice I was pain and medicine free. My trainer started adding fitness programmes on top of my Pilates routine. Two years later I was in the best shape ever: running, cycling and lifting weights.
Pilates has changed my life forever. Discovering Pilates apparatus helped me build strength I never believed I was capable of having.
Although the accident left me with some irreparable damage in my body (and I still get occasional flare ups), through Pilates I learned how to self-manage myself, I never rely on pain-killers anymore and I lead a pretty regular, pain free life.
In 2011 I decided to qualify as a Pilates instructor because Pilates gave me my life back. I believe if I managed to rehab myself from such an advanced injury then anyone can, and helping others discover Pilates became my life mission.“
For many women, discovering they’re pregnant brings a mix of excitement, curiosity, and understandable uncertainty. For first-time mothers especially, the first trimester can feel like uncharted territory. At The Pilates Clinic in Wimbledon, we often meet women in this early stage who wonder: Can I still exercise? Is Pilates safe? Will it help or harm my changing body?
If you're a man who thinks Pilates is all about slow stretching and Instagram-worthy poses, you’re not alone—and you’re also missing out. In recent years, more and more men have discovered what seasoned athletes and rehab specialists have known for decades: Reformer Pilates is one of the most intelligent, effective, and challenging workouts around.
At The Pilates Clinic in Wimbledon, we believe the future of fitness isn’t just about data or automation—it’s about intentional movement, real connection, and sustainable health practices that support you at every stage of life. Pilates offers all of that—and more.
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