Changes in our bodies over the past 10 years.

Pilates has grown in popularity and a wider range of people are joining Pilates classes and studios. There are many aspects of our body that have not changed. However, there are some distince changes in our bodies over these past 10 years.

Common problems and concerns

• Back pain
• Knee pain
• Shoulder pain
• Neck pain
• Weak abdominals
• Poor posture
• Low energy
• Plantar fasciitis
• Tightness

Areas I’m noticing more problems with

• Lower back issues such as compressed discs, herniated discs
• Radiculopathy
• issues in forearms
• pinched nerves
• repetitive strain injury
• pelvic floor conditions
• Diastasis recti (probably because more younger people who are younger parents are trying Pilates)
• Vertigo, motion sickness

Lower back issues were quite common among clients over 10 years ago in a Pilates studio.  It is still common among clients in studios now however, the clientele covers a broader age range so more younger people are coming in with these problems.  The vertigo and motion sickness seems to be more prevalent as well.  I’m not sure if this is because more people are trying Pilates or because these conditions are actually increasing in numbers. Neck and shoulder pain are also more prevalent. Among the many changes in our bodies, I’m noticing more nerve pain. There seems to be more pinched nerves or compressed discs in the vertebrae resulting in pain. Pain radiating down the arm, in the neck, and in the lower back. While this just speculation, poor posture is the prime suspect for this.