Empowering Clients Beyond Fear: Addressing DRA in Pilates
As Pilates teachers specialising in pre- and postnatal care, we understand the unique challenges our clients face. Diastasis Recti Abdominis (DRA) often brings not just physical concerns but also a significant emotional burden, with fear avoidance playing a major role in their journey.
We've all seen clients hesitant to engage fully in exercises, worried about worsening their DRA or causing injury. This fear, if left unaddressed, can lead to a cycle of avoidance that hinders their progress and impacts their overall well-being. It's crucial for us to recognise and address this fear to truly empower our clients.
The fear avoidance model highlights how fear of pain or injury can lead to avoidance behaviours, ultimately resulting in decreased mobility and, in some cases, functional limitations. This is especially relevant for our clients dealing with DRA.
Research indicates that pain, fear of movement, and emotional distress are key factors in DRA-related disability (Crommert, Flink & Gustavsson, 2021). While the causal link between DRA and back pain is complex (Gluppe, Engh & Kari, 2021), we know that fear avoidance can exacerbate pain experiences. Studies have shown that chronic pain sufferers who fear movement experience greater disability. This emphasises the vital role we play in shaping our clients' perceptions and experiences.
Shifting the Narrative: Empowering Through Education and Movement
As Pilates teachers, we are uniquely positioned to help our clients break free from this cycle. By providing accurate information, tailored exercises, and supportive language, we can transform fear into confidence and empower them to reclaim their bodies.
Key Strategies for Pilates Teachers:
Education is Empowerment: Debunk myths and provide evidence-based information about DRA. Help clients understand the adaptability and resilience of their bodies.
Progressive Exercise: Design progressive Pilates programs that gradually build strength and stability, focusing on functional movement and finding ways to increase load.
Positive Language: Use empowering language that emphasises strength, resilience, and progress. Avoid language that reinforces fear or limitations.
Individualised Approach: Recognise that each client's experience is unique. Tailor exercises and modifications to meet their specific needs and concerns.
Elevate Your Expertise: "Diastasis Recti: Separating Fact From Fiction"
To further equip you with the knowledge and tools to support your clients, I've created the ebook "Diastasis Recti: Separating Fact From Fiction." This resource delves into the science behind DRA, debunks common myths, and provides practical strategies to enhance your teaching.
Inside, you'll find:
Evidence-based insights into DRA and exercise for pre and post natal clients.
Strategies to address fear avoidance and build client self-efficacy.
Insights into intra-abdominal pressure and the strength of the linea alba
Guidance on using empowering language to support client recovery.
Empower your clients to move beyond fear and embrace their strength. Download "Diastasis Recti: Separating Fact From Fiction" today and become a trusted guide in their postpartum journey.
References
Crommert, M. E., Flink, I., & Gustavsson, C. (2021). Predictors of Disability Attributed to Symptoms of Increased Interrecti Distance in Women after Childbirth: An Observational Study. Physical therapy, 101(6), pzab064. https://doi.org/10.1093/ptj/pzab064
Gluppe, S., Engh, M. E., & Bø, K. (2021). What is the evidence for abdominal and pelvic floor muscle training to treat DRA abdominis postpartum? A systematic review with meta-analysis. Brazilian journal of physical therapy, 25(6), 664â675. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bjpt.2021.06.006