APTA CSM
Last month, Sarah and Blair had an opportunity to travel to Anaheim, California to learn about the latest research in our field and network with top Physical Therapists from across the country. Below each of them explain one of their favorite lectures and how it applies to you!
Blair- I attended a lecture by Lara Boyd, PT, PhD, and Cameron S. Mang, MSc on optimizing exercise effects on neuroplasticity to promote motor rehabilitation outcomes post-stroke. Neuroplasticity is the brain's ability to restructure itself as a result of experience. Neuroplasticity in the brain is highly influenced by behavior and mediates motor learning. Blair learned that intrinsic properties of the central nervous system, such as BDNP (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor) can change with motor learning. Studies are now showing that short, low intensity aerobic exercise paired with skilled, task specific training enhances the release of BDNP, which increases brain function and drives long-term exercise effects of motor improvement and increased cognition post-stroke. One way we could introduce aerobic exercise to patients is with exercises using the Pilates reformer, jump board, and principles. Additionally, combining Pilates with task specific training would promote body centering since once sided muscle weakness and inability to find mid-line are common deficits post-stroke.
Sarah- I attended a lecture by Lawrence Cahalin, PhD, PT, CCS, Mary Massery, PT, DPT, DSc, and Marlon Wong, DPT, OCS on how breathing and orthopedics are linked more than we think. Everyone knows the diaphragm muscle is vital for breathing, but what most don’t realize is that it interdigitates with the deepest layer of the abdominals, the transverse- i.e. the diaphragm is also considered postural muscle! Unfortunately, when respiratory demand is increased postural activity of the diaphragm greatly reduces. As a result, other areas of the body may become compromised, including our ability to remain balanced. More simply, the body may be referred to as a tin can with the throat being the top and the pelvic floor being the base. The soda can itself is a relatively weak structure unless there is more force from the inside (the can being closed). The second the inside structures are weakened, or the can is open, the structure becomes collapsable. Recent studies show that disorders of breathing and continence have a stronger association with back pain than obesity and physical activity level. Enhancing musculoskeletal performance, including reduction of back pain, may be achieved by focusing on inspiratory muscle training. Perhaps the reason so many people find low back pain relief through Pilates is not just because you are strengthening the abdominals, but because each movement is completed with deep purposeful breaths strengthening the diaphragm. Whether you are a physical therapist, patient, athlete, etc., we need to become more aware of breathing with all activities and make inspiratory muscle training a standard component of regular exercise in order to prevent and heal injuries.
MARCH MATNESS
In lieu of an exercise of the month, follow @pilatespt on instagram and watch us participate in this worldwide Pilates Mat Challenge along with our peers! We have been posting exercises daily in the classical mat order with tips and fun facts.
ASK PILATES PT
Having difficulty finding the right position during exercises? Don’t understand a recent medical diagnosis? Want to know how to target a problem area? You have questions, WE have answers! Don’t hesitate to email askpilatespt@gmail.com!
With love, scrubs, and sidekicks,
