Training with Pelvic ClockⓇ - Product Review

By Caesar Cantone, PT, LAc (www.acupuncturewithpt.com)

“It is a both a mystery and a wonder that our bodies’ complex system of movement is based on such a simple and fundamental element as ‘the circle’.  From the anatomical way our muscles spiral around joints and bones, to the oscillation or rhythmic swagger in the way we walk, there is hardly an element of locomotion within us that is confined to the prison of a straight line.  Computer biometrics have proven that something as simple as raising up one’s arm, or running across a room, can actually be broken down into dozens of smaller components, or micro-rotational “spins.” It naturally follows, that ideal systems of exercise should utilize the principles of circles, balls, and rotations, in order to more closely maximize rehabilitation and functional training outcomes.

As a physical therapist working with a diverse and broad population of clients, from child athletes to the balance-impaired elderly, I frequently utilize physioballs and wobble boards to mimic natural movement patterns and to promote a higher level of control and internal balance with activity. Therefore, I became quite excited when discovering a new circular product called, the Pelvic ClockⓇ, developed by former Russian Olympic coach Yana Blinova.  Having incorporated it into some of my treatment strategies for low back pain, I then had the opportunity of meeting with Yana to share my thoughts and learn more about the principles underlying its invention.

The Pelvic ClockⓇ is a small and simple, hemi-spherical “prop” that positions on the sacrum when lying down, in an effort to support the sacroiliac (SI) joint and promote both mobility and stability of the lumbar spine and abdominal region.  The basic movement guidelines are modeled after the dial of a “clock” with each cardinal direction, or plane of motion, of the pelvic girdle corresponding to a number, or “time.”

When pivoting correctly over the sphere’s dynamic, or rotational, axis toward target numbers, the Pelvic ClockⓇ helps to facilitate gentle opening of the joints within the stiff and painful spine.  And in order to achieve this proper movement, the practitioner is obliged to recruit and control many weak and under-utilized muscles of the abdomen, hips, pelvis, and low back. The key strategy here being control. The circular shape of the Pelvic ClockⓇ not only encourages freedom of motion, but challenges the body to work in a fluctuating state of readjustment and balance.

There is a classic mantra within the practice of Chinese Medicine which states, “Use complex methods to treat simple problems, and use simple methods to treat complex problems.”  The Pelvic ClockⓇ, with its uncomplicated circular shape, can be a valuable tool when used properly in the application of a wide range of complicated and stubborn pain conditions of the low back region.  Of course, its use should never be painful, or contra-indicated, and may best be discussed with your physical therapist or doctor first, should any concerns arise.”