The results of the study were both striking and encouraging for those suffering from back pain. Since up to 80% of the population of the UK will suffer from back pain at some point, that includes almost all of us. Trial results revealed a reduction in the number of days in pain and significant improvement in functioning and quality of life:

• 24 AT lessons proved to be most beneficial

• However, 6 AT lessons with exercise also showed great benefit

• The long-term benefits were unlikely to be due to placebo effect

• Both the number of pain-free days and activities increased

One year after the start of the trial, while the control group was still experiencing 21 days of pain per month on average, the group which had 24 AT lessons experienced only 3 days of pain per month on average. The number of activities they were able to engage in also increased. It was a dramatic improvement in the quality of life of those who participated in the study.

The Alexander Technique is a taught, life-long self-help method that can enable patients with chronic or recurrent non-specific low back pain to reduce number of days in pain and overcome associated incapacity. Experience shows it can also help patients avoid recurrence.