The Alexander Technique
Osteoporosis
Many people with osteoporosis suffer from back, neck or
shoulder pain. This relentless pain can leave them feeling
tired, tense and concerned about bad posture, which also
contributes to pain. The Alexander Technique can sometimes
help all these problems. Described as "an education
not a therapy", it aims to help people understand and
sense how they carry their body and practise ways to break
the bad habits that cause pain and tension. London teacher
Tamar Dhiri explains what it's all about.
What is the Alexander Technique?
The Alexander Technique was developed in the 19th century
and is based on the principle that by learning how to consciously
prevent unwanted, unnecessary and harmful habits we can
prevent strain and injury and promote ease of movement.
Today's lifestyle often puts an unnatural strain on our
bodies as we spend more time sitting at our desks or slumped
in front of the TV. Over time this hunching and slouching
can distort the way our muscles and joints work. Poor postural
habits then become locked in the body, interfering with
our natural poise and freedom of movement, and compressing
the spine. This can lead to stress, exhaustion and pain.
The Alexander Technique teaches you how to transform the
way you use yourself in everyday activities. It doesn't
seek to "treat" specific ailments, but the therapeutic
effects of applying it can be considerable if we learn how
to change habits that do us harm.
How can it help people with osteoporosis?
Many people with osteoporosis suffer from pain, tension
and altered posture because of spinal fractures. When the
bones of the spine collapse, this can trap or irritate nerves
which radiate from the spinal cord. Pain can come from a
trapped nerve or a muscle going into spasm to protect the
area because the body's natural reaction to pain is to contract
muscles in the surrounding area and to stop moving or using
a painful part of the body. This allows us to guard a weak
area from further damage. However, it comes at a price -
restricted movement and circulation. Over the long term
this can lead to more pain. As one part of your body becomes
less used, more and more movements become stiff and painful,
leading to more muscles being affected, and the pain can
then seem to spread. Finally you can end up with chronic
pain and tension, an overall reduction of fitness and postural
problems. AT can teach you to gently release this excess
tension and regain confidence in you body.
What happens in a lesson?
One-to-one lessons from an AT teacher will enable you to
develop a greater understanding of your own body. Through
learning how to sit, stand and move effectively, you will
be taught how to recognise and change the patterns and stresses
caused by harmful habits that can lead to pain and tension.
Often, part of the lesson takes place lying down on a treatment
couch, where you will learn how to release tension. This
is both relaxing and rejuvenating. An initial consultation
can last up to an hour and will allow your teacher to assess
your specific needs. It is important to inform them that
you have osteoporosis so that they are aware of any problems
you may have. You can generally see some changes in just
a few sessions, although it will take longer in order to
see lasting improvements.
But does it work?
AT can be a powerful tool for change and it has been the
subject of several scientific studies (for more on these
visit www.stat.org.uk). The Technique can be learnt by anyone
from nine to 90 and can lead to increased enerjy levels
and an enhanced sense of wellbeing.
Where can I find out about teachers in my area, and how
much will it cost?
STAT, which stands for the Society of Teachers of the Alexander
Technique, holds a directory of qualified teachers across
the UK (contact details at the end of this article). The
cost of a lesson will depend on the teacher's level of experience
and where they are in the country. You should expect to
pay a similar price as you might pay, for example, an acupunturist
or a homeopath. Doctors may also recommend that patients
learn AT and some medical insurance companies pay for lessons
if a consultant prescribes these. Back to top
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