The Science Behind Pilates for Back Pain Relief
Why Soma Form centers therapeutic Reformer Pilates in our approach to chronic pain
Chronic low back pain is one of the most common and most frustrating conditions people face today. Whether it’s a dull ache from sitting too long, lingering tension from past injuries, or radiating pain that interrupts daily life, back pain often becomes something we silently learn to live with.
But what if movement, done mindfully and intentionally, could be part of the solution?
At Soma Form, we focus on therapeutic Reformer Pilates because the evidence is clear: when guided with precision and care, Pilates can significantly improve pain, mobility, and overall quality of life.
A 2014 systematic review published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy looked at multiple studies examining the effect of Pilates on people with chronic low back pain. The findings were compelling:
“Pilates-based exercises significantly improved pain and disability in individuals with chronic low back pain.”
— Wells et al., JOSPT, 2014
This review which covered thousands of participants concluded that Pilates, particularly when led by a trained practitioner and performed regularly, offers measurable benefits in both pain reduction and functional movement.
“Pilates-based exercises significantly improved pain, disability, and quality of life in individuals with chronic low back pain.”
