Wednesday, August 27, 2008

New study on alexander technique for back pain - BMJ report

What is already known on this topic
Combined manipulation and physiotherapy-supervised strengthening exercises helps functioning moderately (1-2 activities no longer limited by back pain)
Preliminary evidence suggests that massage and lessons in the Alexander technique might help in the short term

What this study adds

Six sessions of massage, prescription for exercise and nurse counselling, six lessons in the Alexander technique, and 24 lessons helped with back pain and functioning at three months
Lessons in the Alexander technique still had a beneficial effect on pain and functioning after 12 months
Six lessons in the Alexander technique followed by exercise prescription are nearly as effective as 24 lessons
Link:http://www.bmj.com/cgi/content/full/337/aug19_2/a884

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