By: Rajal Cohen
A study led by Dr. Rajal Cohen at the University of Idaho explored how the Alexander Technique (AT) reduces chronic neck pain and whether group AT classes are as effective as one-on-one lessons. Two key questions were examined:
(1) Can group AT classes provide the same pain relief as individualized instruction?
(2) Does AT lead to lasting changes in neck muscle activity?
The studies found that group AT classes reduced neck pain by 33%, a result comparable to previous individual AT sessions. Participants also reported greater body awareness, reduced habitual muscle tension, and increased ease of movement. Interestingly, AT decreased overall neck muscle activation while improving muscle efficiency, suggesting that pain relief may come from reducing excessive effort rather than simply strengthening muscles.
A second study compared AT with a physical therapy exercise program. Both reduced pain, but AT uniquely lowered surface muscle activation, while exercise tended to increase it. These findings highlight AT’s potential for cost-effective, long-term pain relief through mindful movement rather than force-based strengthening. More research is needed, but these studies suggest AT could be a powerful tool for chronic pain management.
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The study used multiple pretests and post-tests to ensure that pain reduction was due to the intervention rather than natural recovery. Participants were tested twice before the AT course, immediately after, and again five weeks later to assess lasting effects.
Participants rated the Alexander Technique (AT) course highly, averaging 9 out of 10 for enjoyment, clarity, and usefulness. Many reported applying what they learned daily and recognizing habitual tension patterns.
Neck pain decreased by 33% after the AT course and remained improved five weeks later, mirroring results from a previous one-on-one AT study.
Postural alignment temporarily improved but returned to baseline, reinforcing the AT perspective that posture alone is not the key to pain reduction.
Pain self-efficacy showed moderate improvement but was not statistically significant in this small study.
Neck muscle activity and fatigue decreased after AT, suggesting participants used their muscles more efficiently and experienced less fatigue, which correlated with reduced pain.
This study replicated the first study but added a comparison group. Participants with chronic neck pain were randomly assigned to either an Alexander Technique (AT) group or an exercise group. Both groups met for the same duration, with the AT group following the original protocol and the exercise group performing a physical therapy-based program of stretching and strengthening exercises.
Participants enjoyed both programs, but AT participants were more likely to report learning about their movement habits and applying what they learned daily.
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