Effects of Pilates Exercises in Rheumatological Diseases

Rheumatic diseases encompass a wide range of chronic, inflammatory, and autoimmune conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, fibromyalgia syndrome, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, and systemic lupus erythematosus. These conditions are often associated with pain, joint stiffness, muscle weakness, reduced physical fitness, psychosocial issues, and a decline in quality of life. Traditionally, pharmacological treatments have been the cornerstone of disease management. However, in recent years, exercise has gained recognition as an important complementary approach in therapeutic strategies. Regular exercise has been shown to have multifaceted effects such as increasing muscle strength and flexibility, relieving pain, reducing fatigue, supporting cardiovascular functions and strengthening psychosocial well-being. Thanks to controlled and fluid movements, exercise structure targeting the central muscle group and its respiratory-focused approach, Pilates provides both physical and psychosocial benefits in rheumatic diseases. Studies in the literature have shown that Pilates has positive effects in many areas such as disease activity, posture, balance, respiratory functions and quality of life. In this context, Pilates exercises have come to the fore in recent years. Therefore, in the management of rheumatic diseases, it is recommended to implement Pilates-based exercise programs that will be designed according to individual needs and disease characteristics. This review aims to comprehensively examine the effects of Pilates exercises on rheumatic diseases in the light of current literature.