Management of Parkinson’s using a Pilates programme

This case study provides an exploration of the clinical benefits of a Pilates exercise programme for the management of Parkinson’s. After initial physiotherapy assessment, a Pilates programme of weekly one-hour sessions over a period of ten months was devised and taught by a neuro-physiotherapist and specialist Pilates instructors.The patient was re-assessed at regular intervals with changes to the programme made accordingly. The Goal Attainment Scale (GAS-light) was used to measure progress. During the ten-month intervention period, improvements were demonstrated in mobility, flexibility and balance.Although this is only one case study, the results suggest that a Pilates programme monitored by a physiotherapist could be of benefit to people with Parkinson’s. After initial physiotherapy assessment, attending weekly Pilates sessions with an instructor who has close links with a physiotherapist may be more achievable and cost effective.Specialist and individualised Pilates sessions for those with Parkinson’s could mean that this population have another means by which they can maintain independence and experience reduced symptoms for longer