Impacto do método pilates no alinhamento postural em adultos avaliado por fotogrametria computadorizada

Abstract

The Pilates method is used empirically as physical exercise that improves posture. There is strong evidence in favor of its use for improving flexibility and balance, and also some evidence on improvement of muscle strength. However, benefits related to posture have not been proven. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate this issue. The aim of this study was to assess postural alignment in healthy adults, through postural assessment software SAPO before and after completion of first Pilates class, and after finishing a program of 16 classes. We obtained six angles in the sagital plane. The reference values for these angles was achieved through a systematic review study, which analyzed articles that used PAS/SAPO as an assessment tool in healthy adults. Thus, it was possible to obtain a standard angle for: horizontal alignment of the head (51.42 ± 4.87°), horizontal alignment of the pelvis (-12.26 ± 5.81°), hip angle (-6.40 ± 3.86°) and vertical alignment of the body (1.73 ± 0.94°). As none of the studies included in the review evaluated the thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis, we can not get reference values for these angles. The subjects were also evaluated for the presence of pain/discomfort as well as its intensity. The data were analyzed using the R for Windows 3.0.1 and described as median and interquartilar range. It was considered the significance level of p <0.05. Linear mixed effects models were used to study the association of covariates and the outcomes studied. Comparing the periods before and after the first class, there was significant improvement for: horizontal alignment of the head/left (45 vs. 46.40°), the vertical alignment of the body/left (1.80 vs. 1.70o), thoracic kyphosis right and left, respectively (154,40 vs. 155,10o; 154,70 vs. 155,80o). When comparing the periods before the first class and after the program, significant improvement was observed for: horizontal alignment of the head right and left, respectively (43.10 vs. 44.10o, 43.20 vs. 47.20°), angle of the hip/right (- 3.90 vs. -6.20°), thoracic kyphosis right and left, respectively (154,40 vs. 157,40o; 153,40 vs. 156,90o), lumbar lordosis right and left, respectively (152.40 vs. 155.20°; 152.30 vs. 155.60°). The results of our study indicates that Pilates has positive effects on postural alignment, in addition to being a safe form of exercise.