Pilates & Research

Presented at the 17th Annual Pilates Method Alliance Conference

October 2017 | Poster Format

Research Abstract

Using Pilates Exercises After Reconstructive Knee Surgery to Restore Full ROM in the Knee Joint (Weeks 7–12 Post-Op)
Single Case Study

Authors

Joanna Telacka, MS, NCPT
Wojciech Telacki, MS, PT
Harmonious Pilates, Inc.
Roslyn, New York, USA
harmoniouspilates@yahoo.com

Purpose

To demonstrate that apparatus-based Pilates exercises are an effective method for restoring full range of motion (ROM) in the knee joint during weeks 7–12 after reconstructive surgery.

Subject

• Female, age 49

• Injury: Skiing accident

• Procedures:

  • Medial meniscus repair

  • Lateral meniscus debridement

  • ACL replacement with custom allograft

• Recovery protocol:

  • Non-weight bearing (weeks 1–4)

  • Knee brace (weeks 1–6)

  • ROM restricted to 90° flexion (weeks 1–6)

Assessment Tools

• Goniometer – for measuring knee joint ROM

• Manual muscle testing – for evaluating strength of:

  • Knee flexors

  • Knee extensors

  • Plantar flexors

Materials Used

• Reformer

• Chair

• Mat

• Stationary bike

• Passive ROM techniques

• Heat and ice therapy

Methods

• Frequency: 3–5 sessions/week for 6 weeks

• Session protocol:

  • 15 minutes of heat

  • Intermediate-level Reformer and Chair closed kinetic chain exercises

  • Isometric Mat and Reformer exercises to strengthen thighs and lower legs

  • Passive stretching (weeks 6–10)

  • Stationary bike: gradual seat lowering to increase ROM; low RPM; duration increased from 2 to 10 minutes

  • Ice therapy: 15–30 minutes post-session

Why closed kinetic chain exercises?
They promote sequential movement in the ankle, knee, and hip joints. Each exercise recruits multiple muscle groups while minimizing shearing forces—unlike open kinetic chain exercises.

Results

• Passive ROM increased from 90° to 140° within 3 weeks

• By weeks 4–5: ROM improved further to 148°

• Muscle strength increased from 3/5 to 4/5 in knee flexors, extensors, and plantar flexors

Conclusion

The Pilates method is an effective rehabilitation tool for restoring knee joint ROM.

• The use of springs on the Reformer and Chair supports controlled flexion and extension through closed kinetic chain exercises

• Isometric exercises within the Pilates system help strengthen stabilizing muscles, improving knee joint congruity

• This approach prepares patients for the next phase of rehabilitation—dynamic strength training and proprioception

Key Words

Pilates for ACL reconstruction, Pilates and rehabilitation, Pilates and knee reconstruction, ACL replacement, closed kinetic chain exercises

Funding

No funding was received for this study.