| Abstract |
This study investigated the effects of a mat Pilates exercise program incorporating Pilates-specific breathing on
pain, functional disability, and autonomic nervous system balance in patients with chronic low back pain. Methods: A
randomized controlled trial was conducted involving 24 patients with chronic low back pain, who were randomly assigned
to either the Pilates breathing group(n=12) or a general breathing group(n=12). Both groups performed mat Pilates
exercises twice weekly for four weeks. Outcome measures, including Pain(VAS), functional disability(ODI), brainwave
activity(Alpha, Theta, High Beta), Brain Condition Index, HRV Index, and autonomic nervous activity, were assessed before
and after the intervention. Within-group and between-group differences were analyzed using statistical methods.
Results: The Pilates breathing group demonstrated significantly greater reductions in pain(VAS) and functional
disability(ODI) compared with the general breathing group(p<.05). Autonomic nervous activity also increased significantly
in the Pilates breathing group(p<.05). Although EEG variables did not reach statistical significance in either group(p>.05),
the Pilates breathing group showed a trend toward increased Alpha and decreased High Beta activity. The HRV Index
increased in the Pilates breathing group and decreased in the general breathing group, with a significant between-group
difference in change scores(p<.05). Conclusion: Mat Pilates combined with Pilates breathing effectively reduced pain,
improved functional ability, and enhanced autonomic regulation in patients with chronic low back pain. These findings
support the use of breathing-focused Pilates exercise as an effective intervention for promoting both physical and
autonomic recovery in this population. |