Effect of Pilates exercise on balance and spinal curvature in subjects with upper cross syndrome: a randomized controlled clinical trial

Abstract

Introduction. To investigate the outcomes of Pilates exercise compared to traditional treatment for the management of upper cross syndrome (UCS). Methods. Forty female participants with UCS were randomly divided into two equal groups: group A (control group) and group B (experimental group). Both groups received two sessions per week for four consecutive weeks. Group A received a traditional physical therapy program consisting of stretching, strengthening, and postural correction exercises, while group B received a Pilates exercise program. Primary outcome measures were balance, spinal curvature, craniovertebral (CV) angle, and rounded shoulders, while the Neck Disability Index and Visual Analogue Scale served as secondary outcome measures. Measurements were recorded before and after treatment. Results. A comparison of pre-and post-treatment test results showed that all dependent variables significantly improved for both groups (p > 0.001). However, Pilates exercise resulted in greater improvement in terms of balance, spinal curvature, CV angle, and pain (p > 0.001). Conclusions. The Pilates exercise program proved more effective than the traditional physical therapy program in improving spinal curvature, balance, and function, and in reducing pain in UCS.