Delphi Survey 1

1. Explain what Pilates exercise is, and list identifying features that are relevant to people with chronic low back pain.

2. Describe the ideal design of a Pilates exercise program that would suit the majority of people with chronic low back pain including: a) Strength of exercise session (min) and rationale

b) Frequency of exercise session (per week) and rationale

c) Duration of exercise program (number of weeks) and rationale

d) Exercise supervision (number of students:instructor) and rationale

e) Use of specialised Pilates equipment (please specify type) and rationale

f) Other features (and rationale)

3. Describe principles that you would use to guide safe and effective prescription and progression of Pilates exercise in people with chronic low back pain.

4. Explain your rationale behind the use of the above principles to prescribe and progress Pilates exercise in people with chronic low back pain.

5. What potential benefits does Pilates exercise offer to people with chronic low back pain compared to other forms of exercise?

6. What ensures maximal effectiveness of Pilates exercise in people with chronic low back pain?

7. Which clinical indicators form the subjective and objective physiotherapy assessment would suggest that a client with chronic low back pain would benefit from Pialtes exercise? Explain your rationale.

8. Describe any contraindications or precautions in using Pilates exercise in people with chronic low back pain. Explain your rationale.