Research approves Alexander Technique
This August sees the publication of some research in the online BMJ. It is by the Universities of Southampton and Bristol into the use of the Alexander Technique. The trial involved some 580 patients who were suffering from chronic back pain. The Technique teaches better posture and other coping strategies combined with a directed physical exercise regime based on walking increasing distances at faster speeds. The standard treatment is painkillers like tramadol. Doctors also recommend massage. The study found massage produced some benefits but the effects faded after three months. There was a lower use of tramadol and other painkillers, better long-term mobility and an improved quality of life. The Technique is a “cheap” form of treatment. If more people follow the research findings and adopt it, they may benefit and countries like the UK may save valuable medical resources.