The BMJ Study - Alexander Technique works for back pain, there's proof!

In 2008, the British Medical Journal ran a clinical trial to determine the effectiveness of lessons in the Alexander Technique, massage therapy, and advice from a doctor to take exercise (exercise prescription) along with nurse delivered behavioural counselling for patients with chronic or recurrent back pain.

There were 579 participants in the trial.

The main results of the study were that exercise and lessons in the Alexander Technique, but not massage, remained effective at one year. The conclusions read: "One to one lessons in the Alexander technique from registered teachers have long term benefits for patients with chronic back pain. Six lessons followed by exercise prescription were nearly as effective as 24 lessons." To read the full extract please click here.