Analysis of the effect of Pilates method on the postural profile of elderly women

Abstract

The aging process is characterized by various morphological, physiological, biochemical, and functional changes. Objectives: To investigate the effect of the application of Pilates exercises on angles and distances of the elderly women’s body segments. Methods: We performed an interventional quantitative study consisting of the application of 20 sessions of Pilates exercises twice a week with a population of 20 elderly women who had undergone a postural assessment by biophotogrammetry prior to and following the intervention. Results: We observed postural differences and confirmed a reduction in the distance of the lower angle of the scapula, of the epicondyles, and of the styloid process; a reduction in distance between T1 and the lower angles of the scapula; a reduction in notch angle of the sternum and epicondyles; and horizontal alignment of the head. Conclusions: The practice of Pilates exercises was enough to promote improvement in some postural variables. It is recommended to carry out further studies with larger population and frequency to obtain positive effect on other variables of the postural profile.