The Fitness Pilates Blog

This Week’s Deep Dive: Spinal Fusion & Fitness Pilates

It’s Summer Solstice Week!
We’ve got a fantastic line-up of masterclasses happening, and to make it even more special, Pure Energy are releasing brand-new Summer Solstice music! I’ll be posting all the offers and deals in the Facebook group, so keep an eye out.

This Week’s Deep Dive: Spinal Fusion
Many people who’ve experienced back problems or undergone spinal surgery are drawn to Pilates as a way to build strength and support their recovery. That’s why it’s so valuable to keep your knowledge updated on common procedures like spinal fusion.

Today, we’re focusing on what spinal fusion is, why it’s done, and how to adapt Fitness Pilates safely and effectively for clients with this condition.

What is a Spinal Fusion?

Spinal fusion is a surgical procedure used to permanently join two or more vertebrae in the spine, eliminating motion between them. It is often used to stabilise the spine, reduce pain, or correct deformities.

Why Might Someone Have a Spinal Fusion?

A person may undergo spinal fusion for several medical reasons, including:

Chronic back pain from degenerative disc disease or arthritis
Spinal instability or spondylolisthesis
Spinal deformities such as scoliosis or kyphosis
Injuries like fractures or dislocations of vertebrae
Herniated discs not resolved by other treatments
Spinal infections or tumours
Post-trauma instability

What Does the Procedure Involve?

The surgeon places bone or a bone-like material between the affected vertebrae.
Metal plates, screws, or rods may be used to hold the vertebrae together while the bones fuse.
Recovery can take several months, and flexibility in the fused area is permanently reduced.

Fitness Pilates: Do’s and Don’ts for Clients with Spinal Fusion

Always seek medical clearance and work within the client’s comfort zone. Exercises should be adapted to avoid spinal strain or excessive movement.

DOs:

Focus on neutral spine alignment throughout.
Emphasise core activation (especially transverse abdominis and pelvic floor).
Include breathwork and controlled movement to improve proprioception.
Use small, safe ranges of motion – think stability over mobility.
Include hip mobility and shoulder girdle mobility where appropriate.
Opt for closed chain exercises and supine or side-lying positions for safety.
Encourage functional movement patterns to support daily activities.

DON’Ts:

Avoid any exercises involving spinal flexion, extension, or rotation in the fused segments.
No roll downs, spine curls, teasers, or hundreds with head and shoulders lifted.
Avoid loaded twisting or aggressive mobility work.
Don’t cue “tuck the pelvis under” or over-articulate the spine.
Be cautious with unsupported seated work if core strength is limited.
Avoid prone positions if uncomfortable or not medically approved.

How Common is Spinal Fusion Surgery?

Spinal fusion is a relatively common orthopaedic procedure, especially among individuals with chronic back issues.

In the UK, spinal fusion is performed less frequently than in the US but is still a standard treatment for specific spinal conditions.
It is more common in adults over 50, particularly those with degenerative disc disease, osteoarthritis, or spinal instability.

What’s the Recovery Like?

Recovery can vary, depending on:

The location and number of vertebrae fused
The individual’s age, health, and fitness level
Whether the surgery was done using minimally invasive techniques

Typical Recovery Timeline:

Hospital stay: 2–5 days (longer if complications occur)
Initial recovery: 4–6 weeks for basic healing and reduced pain
Bone fusion time: 3–6 months for vertebrae to fully fuse
Return to full activity: May take up to 12 months for high-impact or strenuous movement

During recovery:

Clients are encouraged to start gentle movement and walking early on to avoid stiffness and aid circulation.
Physiotherapy is often part of the rehabilitation process.
Long-term mobility may be reduced in the fused area, so functional movement and core support become critical for daily living and exercise.

Is this helpful….email me and let me know and please feel free to share with your class members.

Ill post this in the Fitness Pilates Facebook group so we can continue the discussion there.

Have a lovely weekend.

Rachel x

JUNE PILATES COURSES

June Training Opportunities – Don’t Miss Out!

June is Pilates Teacher Training month here at Choreographytogo Education! We have a wide range of pilates courses and qualifications in Pilates and reformer, see below:

Active IQ Level 3 Pilates Matwork Diploma 5/12/19 June Online via Zoom 3 contact days