Abstract:

Purpose: Chronic spinal pain is a condition that causes loss of postural control. Exercise is useful to improve postural control however there has been lack of evidence that Pilates exercises increases postural control in patients with chronic neck pain (PwCNP). The aim of the study was to determine the effects of Pilates exercises on postural control in PwCNP. Materials and Methods: Thirty-six PwCNP randomly divided into two groups: Pilates (n=18) and home exercise (control) group (n=18). Eight-week Pilates and home exercise training performed for both groups. Limits of stability, postural stability and clinical test for sensory interaction balance tests were used to evaluate postural control. Evaluations were repeated in 8th week, when training sessions were completed. Results: Pain, disability, overall limits of stability and overall postural stability scores were improved for both groups. Anteroposterior postural stability and eyes open-eyes closed firm surface sensory interaction for balance showed significant improvement only in Pilates group. Pilates training showed superior effect over home exercise group for improving anteroposterior postural stability in between group analysis. Conclusion: Pilates exercises can be useful to provide improvement in anteroposterior postural stability and sensory interaction for balance. Pilates training should be included physical therapy programs when postural control improvement is desired in PwCNP.  

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