HEAD AND SPINE
In a city where we are always on the go, "how is my posture?" is often the last thing on our minds. We work with clients to bring more awareness to poor—but reversible—habits that can lead to neck (cervical) or low back (lumbar) pain, which is often related to herniated discs or fusions, nerve impingement, or sciatica. By using Pilates to connect the dots, we can build a movement practice that integrates new, more efficient, injury-preventative movement patterns.
SHOULDER
Most people don't realize that the only bony attachment connecting our arms to the rest of our skeleton is right at the base of the neck and collar bone. This anatomical feature allows extreme range of motion at the shoulder, but it can also result in extreme instability. We educate clients on the basic anatomy and function of the shoulder complex, and help them regain strength and increase mobility. We have extensive experience assisting clients with painful injuries and conditions that limit range of motion, such as frozen shoulder, torn rotator cuffs, fractures, sprains, and strains.
HIP
Like the shoulder, the hip joint is a relatively mobile ball-and-socket joint. This allows the leg to move forward, backward, and side to side, as well as to rotate. Unfortunately, the hip joint can become quite restricted or unstable due to multiple factors, including our tendency to sit for extended periods of time. As a result, a group of muscles commonly referred to as "hip flexors" become short and/or tight. In addition, our gluteal muscles (located in the buttocks) become inactive and less responsive when needed for things like climbing stairs and running. The long-term consequences can range from chronic pain in the back, hip, and knee to foot and ankle issues to a torn labrum (the cartilage surrounding the hip joint), torn ligaments/meniscus (cartilage) of the knees, and even hip replacement. If you are suffering from one of these issues and working with a physical therapist for rehabilitation, consider a Pilates program with The Co to heal the issue locally and complement the treatment.
