Celine Dion is rebuilding her physical strength through ballet, Pilates and medical treatment as she continues managing stiff-person syndrome (SPS), a rare neurological disorder that has affected her ability to perform.

The Grammy-winning singer revealed her diagnosis in December 2022, explaining that the condition had affected her ability to sing and walk. Her struggles were later documented in 'I Am: Céline Dion,' a 2024 documentary that showed the painful muscle stiffness, spasms and physical challenges associated with the disorder.

In an August 2026 interview, Dion discussed her intensive rehabilitation routine as she prepared for a Paris residency scheduled to begin in September. Her reported schedule includes 90-minute Pilates sessions three times a week and ballet classes twice a week, alongside physical therapy, vocal therapy, medication and immunotherapy.

Although these activities may help support mobility and physical function, exercise alone cannot cure SPS. Dion's routine is part of a broader treatment plan designed to help her manage symptoms and pursue her performance goals.

How Ballet and Pilates May Help Manage SPS

Stiff-person syndrome is a rare neurological disorder characterized by muscle stiffness and painful spasms, particularly in the torso and limbs. Symptoms can fluctuate and may be triggered by external stimuli, including unexpected sounds, touch or emotional distress.

In severe cases, SPS can affect balance, walking and everyday activities. Treatment generally focuses on reducing symptoms and preserving mobility through medication, immunotherapy and rehabilitation. However, experts are saying that ballet and Pilates can also help.

'Low impact is key, since jarring or unpredictable movements [like in] other activities can be more difficult for someone whose spasms are triggered by sudden stimuli,' said Dr. Olivia Gruder, M.D., Green Hills Multiple Sclerosis Clinic clinical director and Vanderbilt University Medical Center clinical professor of neurology.

Gruder explained that ballet and Pilates involve controlled, coordinated movements that may help support flexibility, balance and physical function. However, their benefits can vary depending on an individual's symptoms and abilities.

Providence Saint John's Health Center neurologist Clifford Segil, D.O., has echoed the same sentiment, saying, 'Prolonged activity is a mainstay of treatment for stiff person syndrome.'

More than the small movements and mind-muscle connection, University of Nevada, Reno physical therapist Jennifer M. Nash, P.T., D.P.T., believes the breathing technique in these two forms of exercise helps with alleviating SPS symptoms. 'Both also focus on breathing technique, which is a natural mechanism the body has to feel control and relaxation,' she said.

Pilates emphasizes core strength, posture, controlled movement and breathing. Ballet incorporates balance, coordination, body alignment and deliberate shifts in weight.

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Why Movement Matters in Dion's Rehabilitation

Dion's reported routine combines physical training with medical care rather than relying on exercise alone. Physical therapy can help patients adapt to movement difficulties, maintain function and work toward specific physical goals.

Medication may help control stiffness and spasms, while immunotherapy targets aspects of the immune system involved in the disorder.

According to the U.S. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) has demonstrated benefits for some patients, including improvements in stiffness, gait and sensitivity to external stimuli. Responses vary, and treatment must be individualized.

Dion's rehabilitation illustrates how multiple approaches can support a person's efforts to maintain physical abilities while living with a chronic neurological condition. However, her personal experience should not be interpreted as proof that the same routine will produce similar results for other patients.

Dion has continued intensive rehabilitation while managing SPS, working towards her return to the stage. Although her progress has allowed her to pursue her performance goals, she continues to live with the condition.

For now, treatment focuses on managing symptoms, reducing muscle stiffness and spasms, and maintaining mobility and independence.

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