With Desmond Bernstein

Not all pain is created equal. Some types of pain originate from nerves, poor posture or spinal position can cause pain, and other times pain are generated in the brain after trauma. This workshop is intended for Pilates instructors that are seeking a deeper understanding of the causes of pain and in turn how better to work with clients that suffer from different types of pain. Nearly everyone that is in pain is able to do Pilates, but the strategies to work with different types of pain can be very different.

In this workshop, instructors will learn to recognize the following types of pain in clients.

• Pain originating from the spine, such as low back and other types
• Neuropathic pain (including pain associated with cancers and other types)
• Chronic pain

The second portion of the workshop will focus on strategies to successfully work with clients with different types of pain to enable client success with movement. Types of strategies taught will include proper positioning based on pain type, modifications to the Pilates repertoire to facilitate pain free movement, mindfulness techniques and education to empower clients to feel safe to move and grow their strength and physical abilities. Participants will work through example clients scenarios to build their skills in facilitating pain free movement. This workshop will also encourage participants to learn through experimentation with different types of movement and positions.

This workshop is ideal for experienced instructors that

• are ready to build their confidence working with patients with pain in both group and private settings.
• have clients that they want to discuss with the group to troubleshoot how to provide more impactful Pilates sessions.