Yesterday, Terry Gross, of National Public Radio, interviewed James Weinstein, M.D., one of the nations leading experts on low-back pain and the chair of orthopedic-surgery at Dartmouth College. During the interview, as they were discussing various treatment options, Gross asked Dr. Weinstein about Pilates. I quote his answer here:

I think it's fantastic. Core body strength for the spine, which is what Pilates focuses on, is really important.

Weinstein followed up by emphasizing, as I often have, that it is critical to get good instruction. I think one of the riskiest things people who have been diagnosed with back pain do is get a book or DVD about Pilates and start doing Pilates without guidance in the basic principles of Pilates movement. Books, DVDs and online Pilates exercises can be a great support once you get a foundation, but if you have back pain, please, work with an instructor who can spot your movement habits and help you modify exercises.

• All About Pilates Classes and Instruction
• Core Strength and Core Stabilization Training from About's back and neck site.