CPT code 97110 describes a therapeutic exercise procedure used in physical and occupational therapy to develop strength, endurance, range of motion, and flexibility for one or more body areas.
Herman & Wallace Senior Faculty member Pam Downey, PT, MSPT, DPT, WCS, BCB-PMD, PRPC, CSCS has been integrating Pilates into the treatment of pelvic floor and spine dysfunction for more than 20 years. She explains, “I use Pilates every day in practice to teach patients that movement is therapeutic and accessible—even for those who feel overwhelmed by their diagnosis.”
Pilates offers clinicians a unique lens for evaluating movement dysfunction. Because many patients are unfamiliar with Pilates, these exercises often reveal compensatory patterns that may be contributing to their symptoms. Dr. Downey highlights how equipment like the Reformer allows her to adapt spring tension - providing support when needed or adding challenge for patients further along in their rehab journey.
A Clinical Pearl from Dr. Downey
One of Dr. Downey’s go-to strategies involves using Pilates Footwork and Hamstring Arc strap work in the treatment of a short, tight pelvic floor.
Patients with restricted adductors, hip flexors, or hip rotators—often the result of prior injury or habitual postures - can inadvertently create excessive tension in the pelvic floor. When this is paired with dysfunctional breathing patterns (such as upper chest breathing), intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) regulation becomes compromised.
By integrating breathwork into supine strap exercises, patients experience both a sensory and motor connection to lengthening the pelvic floor. This helps them achieve the sought-after “drop” during volitional pelvic floor movement.
Dr. Downey reflects, “Patients really understand it once they feel their muscles stretch and release on the equipment. The best reward for me is when they return with improved movement patterns and reduced pelvic floor symptoms.”
Is This Course Right for You?
This Pilates-focused rehabilitation course may be a fit if you:
- Want to explore Pilates, but don’t know where to start. You’ll be introduced to the original 34 mat exercises and select Reformer activities, with an emphasis on safety and clinical application. This course is not a replacement for formal Pilates certification, but rather a way to build on your existing clinical expertise.
- Have strong pelvic health knowledge, but want patients to be more active in their care. Learn strategies to take patients beyond the treatment table and empower them through movement.
- Prefer hands-on, movement-rich learning. This course offers a lab-heavy format focusing on problem-solving within the lumbopelvic-hip complex. Even experienced Pilates practitioners will benefit from the discussion on integrating Pilates into pelvic health treatment.
By weaving Pilates into therapeutic exercise (CPT code 97110), clinicians can reclaim the therapeutic intent of movement - empowering patients with strategies that are safe, accessible, and transformative.
Ready to integrate Pilates into your pelvic health practice?
Join Pilates Therapeutic Exercise for Pelvic Health with Pamela Downey, PT, MSPT, DPT, WCS, BCB-PMD, PRPC, CSCS on September 20–21, 2025.
AUTHOR BIO
Pamela Downey, PT, MSPT, DPT, WCS, BCB-PMD, PRPC, CSCS
Pamela A. Downey is a Board-Certified Specialist in Pelvic Health Physical Therapy, Board-Certified in Biofeedback for Pelvic Muscle Dysfunction, and a Certified Pelvic Rehabilitation Practitioner. She has more than 25 years of experience treating individuals with pelvic pain, including neuralgias of the lumbosacral plexus, voiding and sexual dysfunction, pregnancy-related and post-partum musculoskeletal dysfunction, including diastasis recti, sacroiliac joint pain, and dyspareunia. She has extensive experience in applying Pilates therapeutic movement in physical therapy and pelvic health practice. Dr. Downey’s private practice, Partnership in Therapy, is located in Miami, FL, and welcomes all people from adolescents to octogenarians for personalized one-on-one care.
Dr. Downey is an adjunct professor in the Physical Therapy Program at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine in Coral Gables, Florida. She received her Bachelor of Arts from Sarah Lawrence College and her Master of Science, Doctorate in Physical Therapy, and is ABD in her Doctor of Philosophy from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine.
Dr. Downey has presented research and lectured nationally and internationally at professional conferences and has authored a book chapter on pelvic pain in the medical text Women’s Health Physical Therapy. She is actively involved in the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association, a Polestar Pilates Rehabilitation Educator, and Senior Faculty in the Herman & Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute.