EFFECT OF PILATES ON THE TREATMENT OF PREGNANCY-RELATED LOW BACK PAIN

Abstract

Introduction: Low back pain affects up to 80% of the population and occurs in 76% of pregnant women, being most common during the second trimester. Pilates is an effective method for pain relief and muscle strengthening, offering benefits such as improved flexibility and quality of life, as well as aiding in fall prevention and anxiety control during pregnancy. Objective: This study aims to analyze the benefits of using the Pilates method during pregnancy and its application as a preventive and therapeutic approach for low back pain. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted through a bibliographic review of international and national databases, including PubMed, Scielo, and BVS Brasil, using descriptors related to low back pain, pregnancy, exercise, Pilates, and physiotherapy. Out of 41 initial articles, 27 were selected as the basis for this study after applying inclusion criteria and conducting detailed analyses, supplemented by consultations with the book Pilates in Rehabilitation and the guide from the Brazilian Association of Women’s Health Physiotherapy. Results: Studies have shown the effectiveness of Pilates in treating low back pain, providing significant reductions in pain, pelvic floor strengthening, and improved muscle stability. These contribute to the overall well-being of pregnant women, including enhancements in mood, sleep, and self-esteem, as well as potential positive impacts on labor and postpartum recovery. Despite these positive outcomes, the research underscores the need for more methodologically rigorous studies to confirm these benefits and broaden their applicability. Conclusion: The study demonstrates the effectiveness of Pilates in treating low back pain, highlighting its benefits in pain reduction and quality of life improvement. Despite its potential, there is a lack of more robust and concrete studies on its controlled application, especially for pregnant women, as well as a lack of solid evidence regarding its inclusion in the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS), indicating the need for more research to validate its effectiveness and expand its availability in the public health network.