How does pilates work? Is it regarded as good exercise and is it suitable for th!

How does pilates work? Is it regarded as good exercise and is it suitable for the disabled?

I have a broken back and cannot do `normal` exercise. Is pilates a good alternative for me. Please describe how it works and what health benefits I can expect from it. Thanks.

Pilates is an exercise system based on core muscle stability.
Your core muscles are those that support your lower back and provide a stable base from which to work your arms and legs. The main ones to remember are your deep tummy muscles (transversus abdominus), your pelvic floor muscles, your diaphragm and your deep back muscles (particularly multifidus).
By teaching yourself an awareness of these muscles and an awareness of your breathing during controlled movements, you train your body to move correctly and to hold your lower back supported during normal movements and activities.
Regarding your back, it depends on what you mean by a broken back- if it's been repaired and/or if enough time has elapsed (about three months for a stable single fracture), then you should be ok with Pilates, it's mostly mat work, and is low impact.
The benefit you could expect would be strengthening of your core muscles, and better movement patterns.
You would not expect to benefit much in the movement gained, though, so you would need to continue doing your mobilising exercises as well.
You should also not rely on Pilates alone for strengthening - you would need specific strengthening exercises for your back extensors too.
All in all, a good idea, when you're medically cleared to do them, but not enough on their own. Pilates is an extremely precise system, so it's important that your instructor is not only well trained, but has a background in movement and understands your particular problems. Some chartered physios have trained up as instructors - and that skill mix would be ideal for you.
Good luck!