The effect of reformer pilates on pain, flexibility, and functionality in sacroiliac joint dysfunction

Sacroiliac joint dysfunction is a condition that negatively affects individuals' quality of life by causing pain, movement limitations, and functional impairments. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of reformer pilates and home exercise programs on pain, flexibility, balance, and functionality in individuals diagnosed with sacroiliac joint dysfunction. The study included individuals aged 20 to 55 years who had pain in the lumbar region and showed positive responses in at least three sacroiliac provocation tests. Exclusion criteria included history of pelvic or lumbar surgery, leg length discrepancy, osteoporosis, and pregnancy. Participants were divided into two groups. The Reformer Pilates Group performed exercises targeting abdominal, lumbar, and gluteal muscles on a reformer device under the supervision of a physiotherapist three times per week, while the Home Exercise Group performed individual exercises every day to support pelvic stability, flexibility, and core activation. Pain levels were evaluated using the Visual Analog Scale, functionality with the Oswestry Disability Index and Oxford Hip Score, flexibility with the Schober test, and balance with the Stork test and Timed Up and Go test. The results showed that both interventions positively affected pain reduction, improved functionality, increased flexibility, and enhanced balance. However, the reformer pilates program demonstrated higher levels of improvement across all these domains compared to the home exercise program. In conclusion, both reformer Pilates and home exercise programs can be applied in individuals with sacroiliac joint dysfunction; however, reformer Pilates stands out as a more effective option in terms of pain, flexibility, and functionality parameters.