Pili Research Articles

Effects of Pilates compared to whole-body vibration on range of motion in postmenopausal women.: A randomized controlled trial

Background: Postmenopause is marked by a sudden drop in hormone levels, leading to several physical, psychological, and functional changes. Thus, range of motion (ROM), an important component for maintaining functionality, is also affected. One way to improve ROM is by using the Pilates method, which has already proven effective for this component. Another intervention option is whole-body vibration (WBV), however, little is known about the effectiveness of this therapy in ROM. Objective: To compare the effects of Pilates vs. WBV on ROM in postmenopausal women. Methods: Randomized, single-blind, controlled study with 51 postmenopausal women. Pilates and WBV were performed three times a week for six months, totaling 78 sessions. The control group maintained their usual routine. ROM was assessed in trunk flexion and extension movements using a fleximeter. Results: Post-intervention, no difference (p > 0.05) was observed between Pilates and WBV (trunk flexion: 4.9º [95% CI, -0.4 to 10.2] p=0.247, d=0.62; trunk extension: 1.9º [-0.2 to 4.0] p=0.262, d=0.62). Compared with the control group, only Pilates was significantly superior for trunk flexion (8.8º [95% CI, 3.4 to 14.3] p=0.009, d=1.09) and extension (3.2º [95% CI, 0.8 to 5.6] p=0.024, d=0.90), with a large effect size (d > 0.80). Conclusions: Pilates and WBV did not differ significantly for ROM, either in trunk flexion or extension in postmenopausal women. However, only Pilates was superior to the control group, which maintained the usual routine.

O IMPACTO DO PILATES NO TRATAMENTO DA FIBROMIALGIA

Fibromyalgia is a chronic syndrome that causes diffuse muscle pain and increased sensitivity in specific points on the body. It mainly affects women between the ages of 30 and 60, but can occur in men and at younger ages. Symptoms include chronic pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances and cognitive difficulties. Pilates is adaptable to different populations and health conditions and can be customized to meet individual needs. This adaptability makes Pilates a versatile and inclusive therapeutic option, suitable for rehabilitation and health promotion programs. The objective, therefore, was to investigate the impact of the Pilates method in the treatment of fibromyalgia, evaluating its effects on reducing pain, improving physical function and quality of life for patients. Methodologically, a systematic review of the literature was incorporated, with a search for articles carried out in the PubMed and Google Scholar databases, starting from a period of 5 years (2019-2024). It was concluded, based on the available evidence, that Pilates can be considered as a complementary treatment option for patients with fibromyalgia. It is recommended that healthcare professionals consider including Pilates in multidisciplinary treatment programs for fibromyalgia, adapting intervention protocols as necessary to meet each patient’s specific needs. Even more so, the implementation of Pilates programs supervised by qualified professionals can guarantee the safety and effectiveness of this therapeutic intervention for patients with fibromyalgia.

Effect of home based tele pilates on pelvic girdle pain and lumbo pelvic stability among pregnant women – A randomized controlled trial

Introduction. Pelvic girdle pain is one of the common musculoskeletal problems in pregnancy, resulting from hormonal variations and biomechanical alterations in the muscles that support lumbo-pelvic stability. The Pilates method, which includes mind-body approaches and focuses on core strength, provides relief from pelvic pain. In recent years, tele-rehabilitation has emerged as one of the most popular solutions in clinical practice. Aim. To find out the effect of home-based Tele Pilates on pelvic girdle pain and lumbo-pelvic stability among pregnant women. Materials and methods. A randomized controlled trial was conducted in Sri Ramachandra Hospital, Chennai, from January 2023 to June 2023. Pregnant women with pelvic girdle pain from 20-30 weeks of gestation were screened and randomly divided into a Pilates exercise group (n = 19) and a control group (n = 19). Subjects in the Pilates group followed the exercise thrice a week for eight weeks. Subjects in the control group followed standardized antenatal exercises and education. The outcome measures used were Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain level, Pelvic Girdle Questionnaire (PGQ) for functional disability, and Pressure Biofeedback for lumbo-pelvic stability. Mann-Whitney test, Wilcoxon signed rank test, and ‘t’ test were performed to examine the pain score, Pelvic Girdle Questionnaire, and the lumbo-pelvic stability. Results. Baseline parameters are similar and comparable. (p < 0.05). Between-group analysis revealed that the experimental group showed improvement in the pain and disability with a significant difference (p ≤ 0.001). Both groups showed significant improvement in lumbo-pelvic stability in the within-group analysis (p < 0.001). Conclusion. Home-based tele Pilates (HTPE) can be recommended as an effective and safe method for decreasing pain levels and improving lumbo-pelvic stability among pregnant women with pelvic girdle pain.

Microplastic biofilms promote the horizontal transfer of antibiotic resistance genes in estuarine environments

As emerging pollutants, microplastics can aggregate microorganisms on their surfaces and form biofilms, enriching antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). Consequently, microplastic biofilms have become a focal point of research. Horizontal gene transfer is one of the primary mechanisms by which bacteria acquire antibiotic resistance, with much of the research focusing on suspended bacteria. However, microplastic biofilms, as hotspots for horizontal gene transfer, also merit significant investigation. This study primarily explored and compared the frequency of ARG conjugative transfer between suspended bacteria and microplastic biofilms. The results demonstrated that, compared to suspended bacteria, microplastic biofilms enhanced the frequency of ARG conjugative transfer by 7.2–19.6 times. Among them, biofilms on polyethylene microplastics showed the strongest promotion of conjugation. After the formation of microplastic biofilms, there was a significant increase in bacterial density within the biofilms, which raised the collision frequency of donor and recipient bacteria. Then microplastic biofilms facilitated the gene expression levels of outer membrane proteins, enhanced bacterial gene transfer capabilities, promoted the synthesis of conjugative pili, accelerated the formation of conjugative pairing systems, and elevated the expression levels of genes related to DNA replication and transfer systems, thereby enhancing the conjugative transfer of ARGs within microplastic biofilms. Among different types of microplastic biofilms, polyethylene biofilms exhibited the highest bacterial density, thus showing the highest frequency of ARG conjugation. This study highlights the risks associated with ARG conjugative transfer following the formation of microplastic biofilms and provides insights into the risks of microplastic and antibiotic resistance propagation in estuarine environments.

The Effects of cervical mobilization and clinical pilates exercises in cervicogenic headache: randomized controlled trial.

To investigate the effects of Cervical Mobilization (CM) and Clinical Pilates Exercises (CPE) in Cervigogenic Headache (CHA). The 37 patients were randomized into the 3 groups. The CM for 1st group, CPE for 2nd group and CM+CPE for 3rd group were applied 3 days/a week for 6 weeks. Pain frequency, pain intensity, number of analgesic, were recorded. The posture was measured by Posture Screen application, the cervical range of motion by the CROM device, deep neck flexor muscle endurance by the pressurized biofeedback device. Evaluations were applied 2 times as pre-post treatment. In within-group comparison a decrease in pain parameters, neck-shoulder postural deviation and an increase DNFE and CROM were observed in all groups (p<0.05). In between-group comparison pain frequency, intensity and number of analgesics were significant changes in the CM and CM+CPE groups according to CPE (respectively p<0,001, p=0,001, p=0,018). Head and shoulder angulation were significant in the CPE and CM+CPE groups according to CM (respectively p=0.009, p=0,011). It was determined that the cervical right lateral flexion range of motion and right rotation were significant changes in the CM and CM+CPE groups according to CPE (respectively p=0,026, p=0,040). DNFE were significantly increased in CM+CPE according to CM and CPE (p=0.001). This study suggests that it would be beneficial to add CM and CPE to the treatment plans of patients with CHA.

Feasibility of a Novel Movement Preference Approach to Classify Case Complexity for Adults with Non-Specific Chronic Low Back Pain

The non-specific nature of low back pain (LBP) poses challenges in its diagnosis and clinical management. Classifying case complexity with an exercise method may help overcome these challenges. The present study proposed a movement-based classification system based on Dance Medicine Australia (DMA) Clinical Pilates for patients with non-specific chronic LBP. To test the feasibility of the proposed system, 40 adults with non-specific chronic LBP were assessed on their movement preference (i.e., movement directions that can relieve pain or are pain-free) through the DMA Clinical Pilates method. The movement preferences could be a combination of each of the following movement directions: (1) flexion or extension, (2) left or right lateral flexion and/or (3) left or right rotation. For cases that had central or bilateral pain, the number of movement preferences identified was used to guide the classification. Using the proposed system, all 40 (100%) LBP cases were successfully classified into basic (n = 8, 20%), intermediate (n = 17, 42.5%), advanced (n = 8, 20%) or expert (n = 7, 17.5%) levels of complexity. In conclusion, this study has demonstrated that the proposed movement-based classification system was a feasible method for classifying case complexity in adults with non-specific chronic LBP. Future clinical intervention studies are needed to confirm if this classification system can enhance therapeutic outcomes in patients.

BENEFÍCIOS DO PILATES NA DOR LOMAR.

Low back pain, also called as lumbago, often causes functional disability. It is estimated that 80 to 84% of the world´s population will, suffer an episode of low back pain at some point in their lives. It can be related to pathologies such as infection, tumor, arthritis, fracture, cauda equina syndrome, disc herniation, and lifestyle factors; smoking, diet, sedentary lifestyle, and occupation; heavy physical work, repetitive movements. Pilates is an important treatment option for people with low back pain. Created by Joseph Humbertus Pilates, Pilates is a physical exercise method that makes it possible to condition the body and mind, correct muscle imbalances, improve posture, and tone the body. The objective of this work is to evaluate the effectiveness of the Pilates method in people with low back pain. This is a literature review based on the database pedro.org.au, which offers a specialized approach to physiotherapy research. The included studies cover, individuals aged 18 and over, ensuring the sample is composed of adults; all genders were considered in the study selection, ensuring representativity and inclusion of diverse populations.

Identifying the Problem Side with Single-Leg Squat and Hamstrings Flexibility for Non-Specific Chronic Low Back Pain.

Background and Objectives: In patients with non-specific chronic low back pain (LBP), their pain and problem sides can differ. Clinical Pilates assessment provides an approach to identify the problem side, but this approach requires experience and can be subjective. This study aimed to investigate if objective measures of single-leg squat postural control and hamstrings flexibility could identify the problem side in adults with non-specific chronic LBP. Materials and Methods: Forty adults with non-specific chronic LBP were tested on single-leg squat postural control and hamstrings flexibility. The problem side of participants was assessed with the Clinical Pilates method. Paired t-tests were used to compare the postural sway parameters of the single-leg squat and hamstrings flexibility between the problem and non-problem sides. Cohen's kappa was then used to assess the agreement of postural sway and flexibility measures with the Clinical Pilates method. Results: The problem side showed smaller vertical force variance, larger sway path distances, lower peak vertical force, smaller terminal knee flexion angle, longer time to complete the five single-leg squats, and tighter hamstrings as compared to the non-problem side. However, only the overall and anteroposterior sway path distances, terminal knee flexion angle, total squat duration, and hamstrings flexibility yielded moderate to strong agreement with the Clinical Pilates method. Conclusions: Single-leg squat postural sway parameters and hamstrings flexibility can objectively identify the problem side in adults with non-specific chronic LBP.

THE EFFECT OF TRUNK STABILITY TRAINING ON UPPER EXTREMITY ENDURANCE, STABILITY AND SHOULDER JOINT PROPRIOCEPTION IN POSTMENOPAUSAL WOMEN

Purpose: The incidence of shoulder pathologies is increasing in postmenopausal women. In this period, there is a need for protective approaches to be applied to prevent shoulder injuries. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of clinical pilates exercises on upper extremity stability, endurance, function and shoulder joint proprioception in postmenopausal women. Methods: 30 postmenopausal women between the ages of 40-60 were included in our study. Participants were given clinical pilates training for 6 weeks, 3 days a week, 60 minutes by a physiotherapist. Before and after pilates training, dynamic stability of the shoulder was evaluated with Closed Kinetic Chain Upper Extremity Stability Test (CKCUES Test) and Upper Quarter Y Balance Test (UQYBT). Upper extremity muscle endurance was evaluated with the modified push up test. Laser Pointer-Assisted Angle Reproduction Test (LP-ART) was used to evaluate shoulder joint position sense. Results: A statistically significant difference was found in CKCUES Test (p=0.000, r=0.594), UQYBT (p=0.000, r=0.537), modified push up (p=0.000, r=0.594), LP-ART abduction (p=0.000, r= 0.491) and LP-ART flexion (p=0.000, r=0.484) at end of the training compared to the pre-training. The exercise program was found to be highly effective on all parameters. Conclusion: It was concluded that clinical pilates training applied in postmenopausal women increased the dynamic stability of the shoulder, endurance and position sense. Trunk stabilization exercises may be beneficial as a preventive approach in the prevention of shoulder pathologies in postmenopausal women.

Effects of pilates practice during the aging process in women

Population aging is a global phenomenon, with a notable feminization of old age. Consequently, strategies are necessary to mitigate the negative impacts of aging, with the Pilates Method (PM) being an effective physical exercise alternative. This study aimed to examine the effects of PM on variables such as balance, strength, and functional capacity (FC) in female aging, compiling these data in a literature review. An integrative bibliographic review was conducted in the ScienceDirect and MEDLINE/PubMed databases using descriptors and Boolean operators. A total of 682 publications were identified, of which 48 were selected, and 14 were included in this review. The results show that PM significantly improves dynamic balance, muscle strength of the lower and upper limbs, and FC when practiced for a minimum period of 6 to 18 weeks. PM is effective both in the mat and equipment-based modalities. It is concluded that PM is a highly beneficial physical exercise option for elderly women, being recommended to bring benefits during the aging process.

The Importance of Mind-Body in Pilates Method in Patients with Chronic Non-Specific Low Back Pain-A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Background/Objectives: Chronic non-specific low back pain (CNSLBP) is a prevalent condition causing significant distress and healthcare costs globally. Despite various treatments, effective management remains challenging. Pilates, recognized for its focus on core strength and postural alignment, has emerged as a promising intervention. This study investigates the impact of mind-body in Pilates for directing participants on CNSLBP outcomes. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 67 participants, aged 18 to 65 years, suffering from CNSLBP. They were allocated into two groups: Pilates with mind-body cueing (n = 34) and Pilates without cueing (n = 33). Both groups underwent 60 min sessions twice weekly for 8 weeks. Outcome measures included pain intensity (Visual Analogue Scale), functional disability (Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire), fear of movement (Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia), and adherence (percentage of sessions attended). Statistical significance was determined through repeated measures ANOVA. Results: Both groups showed significant improvement in pain reduction, functional ability, and kinesiophobia. However, the mind-body group demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in kinesiophobia compared to the non-cueing group (p = 0.048), indicating the potential additional benefit of mind-body cueing in managing movement-related fear in CNSLBP. Conclusions: This study underscores the effectiveness of an 8-week Pilates intervention in managing CNSLBP, highlighting the added value of mind-body cueing in reducing fear of movement. These findings suggest incorporating mind-body cueing in Pilates could enhance the therapeutic benefits, particularly for patients with high levels of movement-related fear, potentially improving long-term adherence to physical activity and rehabilitation outcomes.

Remote and in-person Pilates impact on the quality of life of older adults: A controlled and randomized clinical trial

IntroductionSedentary behavior and physical inactivity pose significant concerns for the elderly population due to their detrimental effects on physical autonomy and quality of life. The Pilates method practiced remotely on the ground may be a promising option to enhance the quality of life for older adults. ObjectiveTo compare the effects of remote and in-person Pilates solo training on older adults' quality of life (QOL) through a controlled and randomized clinical trial. MethodologyElderly individuals aged 60 to 70 were assigned to three groups: remote training (RT), in-person training (IT), and a control group (CG). The effect size was calculated, and comparisons were conducted using Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) with a Bonferroni complementary test (α = 0.05). ResultsAll groups showed improvement in most QOL domains. However, the IT group exhibited a more significant effect size in the physical, psychological, social relationships, autonomy, death, and dying domains, as well as total scores compared to the RT group. ConclusionPilates practiced solo, whether in-person or remotely, enhances various aspects of older adults' quality of life. Nevertheless, in-person training demonstrates superiority for these outcomes.

The effects of conventional treatment in addition to Pilates on biopsychosocial status in chronic neck pain: A randomized clinical trial.

Although guidelines and systematic reviews recommend the use of exercise in the treatment of chronic pain and neck pain, there are no clear recommendations for conservative treatments frequently used in clinics. The effect of supporting clinical Pilates exercises with passive physiotherapy methods on biopsychosocial status is still unknown. The objective was to investigate the effects of conventional treatment (CT) in addition to clinical Pilates on pain levels, physical condition, functional status, and psychosocial status in individuals with chronic neck pain. Fifty women were randomly divided into 2groups, the clinical Pilates group (Pilates, n= 25), and the group receiving CT in addition to clinical Pilates (Pilates-CT, n= 25). Both groups received treatment 3days a week for 6weeks. The CT program involved the implementation of hot pack (HP) application, Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS), and therapeutic ultrasound (US) to the cervical area. CT in addition to Pilates was more effective in reducing the Visual Analog Scale (at rest and during activity), Neck Disability Index, Fear-Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire, NeckPix Scale, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale-depression, and Cognitive Exercise Therapy Approach-Biopsychosocial questionnaire scores (p< 0.05) and in increasing the degree of change in the extension range of motion (ROM) and cervical flexor endurance values and scores in the energy parameter of Short Form-36 (p< 0.05). CT provided in addition to Pilates was more effective in reducing pain levels, disability, fear of movement, depression levels, and negative biopsychosocial status and improving extension ROM and cervical flexor endurance, neck awareness, and the energy/vitality parameter of quality of life in individuals with chronic neck pain.

Targeting plasmid-encoded proteins that contain immunoglobulin-like domains to combat antimicrobial resistance

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant threat to human health. Although vaccines have been developed to combat AMR, it has proven challenging to associate specific vaccine antigens with AMR. Bacterial plasmids play a crucial role in the transmission of AMR. Our recent research has identified a group of bacterial plasmids (specifically, IncHI plasmids) that encode large molecular mass proteins containing bacterial immunoglobulin-like domains. These proteins are found on the external surface of the bacterial cells, such as in the flagella or conjugative pili. In this study, we show that these proteins are antigenic and can protect mice from infection caused by an AMR Salmonella strain harboring one of these plasmids. Furthermore, we successfully generated nanobodies targeting these proteins, that were shown to interfere with the conjugative transfer of IncHI plasmids. Considering that these proteins are also encoded in other groups of plasmids, such as IncA/C and IncP2, targeting them could be a valuable strategy in combating AMR infections caused by bacteria harboring different groups of AMR plasmids. Since the selected antigens are directly linked to AMR itself, the protective effect extends beyond specific microorganisms to include all those carrying the corresponding resistance plasmids.

Targeting plasmid-encoded proteins that contain immunoglobulin-like domains to combat antimicrobial resistance.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant threat to human health. Although vaccines have been developed to combat AMR, it has proven challenging to associate specific vaccine antigens with AMR. Bacterial plasmids play a crucial role in the transmission of AMR. Our recent research has identified a group of bacterial plasmids (specifically, IncHI plasmids) that encode large molecular mass proteins containing bacterial immunoglobulin-like domains. These proteins are found on the external surface of the bacterial cells, such as in the flagella or conjugative pili. In this study, we show that these proteins are antigenic and can protect mice from infection caused by an AMR Salmonella strain harboring one of these plasmids. Furthermore, we successfully generated nanobodies targeting these proteins, that were shown to interfere with the conjugative transfer of IncHI plasmids. Considering that these proteins are also encoded in other groups of plasmids, such as IncA/C and IncP2, targeting them could be a valuable strategy in combating AMR infections caused by bacteria harboring different groups of AMR plasmids. Since the selected antigens are directly linked to AMR itself, the protective effect extends beyond specific microorganisms to include all those carrying the corresponding resistance plasmids.

Effects of pilates method in post-COVID-19 syndrome: systematic review and meta-analysis

Effects of pilates method in post-COVID-19 syndrome: systematic review and meta-analysis

Cryo-EM structure of the R388 plasmid conjugative pilus reveals a helical polymer characterized by an unusual pilin/phospholipid binary complex

Bacterial conjugation is a process by which DNA is transferred unidirectionally from a donor cell to a recipient cell. It is the main means by which antibiotic resistance genes spread among bacterial populations. It is crucially dependent upon the elaboration of an extracellular appendage, termed "pilus," by a large double-membrane-spanning secretion system termed conjugative "type IV secretion system." Here we present the structure of the conjugative pilus encoded by the R388 plasmid. We demonstrate that, as opposed to all conjugative pili produced so far for cryoelectron microscopy (cryo-EM) structure determination, the conjugative pilus encoded by the R388 plasmid is greatly stimulated by the presence of recipient cells. Comparison of its cryo-EM structure with existing conjugative pilus structures highlights a number of important differences between the R388 pilus structure and that of its homologs, the most prominent being the highly distinctive conformation of its bound lipid.

The Behavior of Maximal Respiratory Pressures, Peak Expiratory Flow and Functional Capacity Between Pilates Method Practitioners

Introduction: The Pilates method is a strategy with positive effects not only on the balance and quality of life of its practitioners, but also on respiratory muscle strength and functional capacity. The aim of this study was to assess respiratory muscle strength and functional capacity among individuals practicing the Pilates method and compare them with the values predicted for the Brazilian population. Methods: This is a cross-sectional, observational study carried out among Pilates practitioners (N=30) of both genders, aged between 20 and 66 years, with at least 4 weeks of practice in the modality under study. Measures of lung function (peak expiratory flow) and strength (maximum respiratory pressures) were analyzed, as well as functional capacity using the step test, which were compared with normal values for the study population. The significance level adopted was p &lt; 0.05. Results: the mean maximum respiratory pressures obtained were lower than those predicted for the Brazilian population. On the other hand, the average number of ascents obtained in the 6-minute step test was significantly higher than the predicted average. No statistically significant difference was found for PEF (p=0.687). Conclusion: The Pilates method did not influence the maintenance of maximum respiratory pressures or PEF measurements in its practitioners. On the other hand, this modern form of physical activity promoted an effective increase in functional capacity, as measured by the step test.

Pain, Function and Trunk/Hip Flexibility Changes Immediately after Clinical Pilates Exercises in Young Adults with Mild Chronic Low Back Pain

Background: Pilates is among the best conservative management strategies for chronic low back pain. However, several variations of Pilates exist. This study aimed to investigate physical measures that would detect immediate changes after a brief session of Clinical Pilates exercises. Changes in self-reported clinical outcomes, pain and function were also evaluated. Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted. Eighteen young adults with chronic low back pain participated in this study. Participants were assessed for pain and function subjectively, and hip/knee strength and trunk/hip flexibility objectively, followed by a session of Clinical Pilates assessment and exercises. After the exercises, the participants were immediately reassessed for pain, function, strength, and flexibility. Results: Trunk/hip flexibility showed statistically significant changes after exercise, which were measured with the sit-and-reach test (−3.44 cm, 95% CI [−5.10, −1.79], p &lt; 0.001) and the finger-to-floor test (−6.29 cm [−9.51, −3.06], p = 0.001). Statistical significance was not found in detecting strength changes in hip extension, hip abduction, and knee extension. Changes in pain (1.56 points [0.83, 2.28], p &lt; 0.001) and patient-specific functional scale (−1.52 points [−1.93, −1.10], p &lt; 0.001) were also found after exercise. Conclusions: Trunk/hip flexibility measures detected physical changes after Clinical Pilates exercise, as well as self-reported pain and function outcomes, without reducing strength performance.

The effectiveness of the therapeutic exercise Clinical Pilates in adult patients with multiple sclerosis: a systematic review

The effectiveness of the therapeutic exercise Clinical Pilates in adult patients with multiple sclerosis: a systematic review