The Alexander Technique

A 19th century Shakespearean actor’s personal technique now helps patients with chronic pain

Archana S. Rai

Posted: Mon, Jan 12 2009. 10:34 PM IST

For over four years, every working day has ended the same way for Arun Srinivasan, 32, a software professional based in Bangalore: with stiff shoulders and a great deal of pain in the neck. This despite regular sessions of yoga, massage and exercise. “The pain always returned… I finally went to Recoup, a neuromuscular rehabilitation centre where I was asked (by orthopaedic specialist Deepak Sharan) to try (the) Alexander Technique,” he says.

With the aid of Alexander

The Alexander Technique (AT) makes use of your own perception of movement to improve muscle coordination. The method was formulated by F. Matthias Alexander, a theatre actor who devised this regimen in the final decade of the 19th century. It has since evolved into a method that can identify how a person is misusing his body and show him the way to reducing superfluous muscular tension or force. “By the time I had attended 12 sessions, I began to feel the release of tension in my muscles and the pain has gradually come down,” says Srinivasan.

He is not alone in benefiting from therapeutic AT. In a study of 579 English patients with chronic back pain, those who got 24 AT lessons had 18 fewer days of back pain than the control group. Published in the British Medical Journal last year, it also reported that patients treated to a combination of six AT lessons plus prescribed exercise saw a 72% reduction in back pain—similar to those who had the 24 AT lessons.
“In isolation, Alexander Technique has extremely limited value in treating musculoskeletal disorders,” says Deepak Sharan, medical director, Recoup, which has centres in Bangalore, New Delhi, Hyderabad and Pune, and organizes AT training for patients (see ‘Learn’). “However, it is a useful adjunct in a holistic, integrated treatment protocol that includes manual therapy, yoga and cognitive behavioural therapy.”

Who does it help?

Recoup assigns patients with generalized musculoskeletal disorders a “severity score” to identify who will benefit from mind-body interventions such as AT. For instance, Dr Sharan advocates AT for habitual deep muscle tension, an involuntary tightening of the neck and upper back at work, with spontaneous relaxation after hours.

Chronic pain from fibromyalgia or complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) can also be treated. Increasingly, AT is also used against respiratory and digestive tract disorders, osteoporosis, blood pressure and migraine. Take 21-year-old architecture student Sheeba, who has suffered from upper back pain for as long as she can remember. She is learning AT from Bangalore-based Padmini Menon, the country’s only registered AT teacher.

How it works

AT helped Sheeba identify kinks in her posture and habitual movements. “I used to walk in a certain way, almost bouncing; I am now relearning how to walk,” she says.
“We address a very basic pattern of muscle organization that is individual to each person. If that basic pattern is leading to problems, then this technique can make you aware of it,” says Menon, who trained at Brighton Alexander Technique College, UK, approved by the Society of the Teachers of the Alexander Technique.

During a lesson, the teacher guides the student to improve coordination and reduce muscle tension in various activities (sitting down in a chair, standing up, lying down), using her hands to provide tactile feedback. AT addresses the fundamental way a person supports the body. “This is not commonly understood as having any bearing on our state of health,” says Carolyn Nicholls, head of training, Brighton Alexander Technique College, “but the way you coordinate your breath and balance are not separate issues.” Indeed, she believes it has profound effects on the way a person’s body works—or doesn’t work, leading to discomfort.

Write to us at businessoflife@livemint.com

Pain is a complex, personal, subjective and unpleasant sensory and perceptual experience that may or may not have any correlation with bodily injury or tissue damage. Pain, as defined by the International Association for Study of Pain, is a “sensory and emotional experience.” The basic definition of pain includes the emotional component. This implies that emotional distress or distress in general can significantly influence the perception of pain or can act as a significant contributing or maintaining factor for pain. Besides emotional distress, a person’s cognitive characteristics like pain-related beliefs and attitude toward pain, his/her socio-cultural factors also plays a significant role in contributing to pain or in maintaining pain behaviours.

Research has shown that reinforcing/encouraging pain behaviours tend to continue them and finally the person adopts a “sick role” and his/her overall functional status is significantly impaired. In a nutshell, it can be said that besides physical factors like inflammation, swelling, tissue injury, ligament or tendon injury, psychosocial factors like emotional distress, one’s belief and attitude toward pain and environment that reinforce pain behaviours also significantly contribute to pain. This model (Biopsychosocial model) is the recent model in managing health behaviours including pain management. There is a need that all health professionals should understand this model and implement it in their clinical practice for the overall well-being and speedy recovery of their clients.
   
RECOUP is one of the pioneers to incorporate this model in its internationally acclaimed physician-led, holistic, multidisciplinary treatment approach called SHARAN’S Protocol for various musculoskeletal disorders. Behavioural management of pain utilises various psychological interventions for pain management. This includes relaxation training, cognitive behaviour therapy, teaching problem solving skills to manage pain, pain education to the clients, techniques like mindfulness, guided imagery, sleep hygiene, and using techniques based on operant model to increase the frequency of non-pain behaviours and decrease the frequency of pain behaviours. The overall goal of behavioural management of pain is to increase the clients’ self-efficacy skills so that they can better manage their pain by using the techniques taught during the sessions.

This service is available at all RECOUP locations in Bangalore, and is delivered by a Clinical Psychologist.

Dear Dr Deepak,

My mother is being treated for Osteoporosis by you. As per your advice, she has been taking Osteophos, Supracal etc for past one year now.

I was a little concerned after I looked at this article.
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Health__Science/Osteoporosis_drugs_lead_to_cancer_/articleshow/3923324.cms

Please let me know your views on this. Thanks,

Saurabhi

—————————-

Dear Saurabhi,

This article is based on a letter and not a valid scientific study. 23 patients out of millions who took the medicine developed oesophageal cancer over a 13 year period. Considering the prevalence of this cancer, many of those might have developed the same even if they would not have been taking the medicine.

The number of deaths caused by fractured hips due to Osteoporosis is actually greater than the number of deaths from cancer of the cervix, cancer of the uterus, and breast cancer combined!  Millions of patients die every year worldwide (including several in India) due to Osteoporosis related complications. 

Among the medications available currently, Bisphosphonates like Alendronate are considered to be the drug of choice for post menopausal osteoporosis. The benefits of taking it far outweigh the risks of side effects. Newer medicines like Teriparatide injections are used in more severe cases of Osteoporosis.

Dr. Deepak Sharan

RECOUP Certified Courses

The following training opportunities (Clinical Attachments) are currently available at RECOUP:

1. Rehabilitation of Musculoskeletal Disorders, e.g., Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) and Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction
2. Functional Rehabilitation of a Child with Neurological Impairment 

Duration of each attachment: 1 month

MSD Rehabilitation 

Suitable Candidate: Physician (Orthopaedist, Physiatrist, Occupational Health, etc.), Ergonomist, Physiotherapist, Occupational Therapist, or other Rehabilitation Professional.

Educational Objectives :

By the end of the training period, the trainee should be able to

1. Elicit and document a comprehensive history, emphasising the predisposing factors for Myofascial Pain Syndrome, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Tendinopathies, Compressive Neuropathies, Fibromyalgia, Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome and other common MSDs.
2. Perform and document a thorough musculoskeletal examination
3. Perform and document a thorough workstation ergonomic workstation assessment using RULA, OCRA, Strain Index, etc.
4. Education and correction of contributory and perpetuating factors (posture, diet, stress, harmful habits, etc.)
   Understand the Clinical Reasoning behind SHARAN’S Protocol and its stages
5. Learn the application of the DEEPAK SHARAN Severity Scale to judge the prognosis of MSD
6. Observe and perform neuromuscular therapy, trigger point therapy, myofascial release, muscle energy techniques, positional release techniques, soft tissue, articular and neural  mobilisation, Kinesio and Endura Taping, and adjunctive techniques, under supervision

Features of the training :

1. In-depth study of basic and clinical research knowledge available on connective tissue and fascial system, muscles, myofascial trigger points, causes and patterns of musculoskeletal dysfunction, and therapeutics
2. Basic design and publication of a clinical research study

Functional Rehabilitation of a Child with Neurological Impairment

 Suitable Candidate: Neurologists, neurosurgeons, orthopaedic surgeons, physiatrists, pediatricians, physicians, physical therapists, occupational therapists and other disciplines involved in the diagnosis and treatment of children with neurological impairment.

 Educational Objectives:

1. Describe the pathophysiology, clinical features, consequences and complications of spasticity, hypotonia, paralysis and movement disorders.
2. Define the role of medical management for improving function.
3. Explain the indications, methods, and outcomes of medical and surgical treatments for spasticity, athetosis, dystonia, contractures and lever arm dysfunction.
4. Recognise spasticity in the context of other medical problems and disabilities.
5. Recognise the importance of and techniques for post-operative rehabilitation after SEMLARASS and other surgical procedures

Cost of each Clinical Attachment:

Rs. 30,000

The entire training fees will be paid by Cash, Local Cheque or Demand Draft (in favour of RECOUP) before starting the attachment and will not be refundable.

The cost includes training, usage of library, examination and certification. We can suggest suitable low cost accommodation nearby.

Location of Training:

RECOUP Neuromusculoskeletal Rehabilitation Centre,

312, Further Extension of Anjanapura Layout, 10th Block, Bangalore-560062, India

Certificate :

Please note that this training is not an academic qualification and hence it has no university affiliation. The candidate is required to complete a research project and pass a written and practical examination before being awarded a certificate and transcript by RECOUP.

Future career prospects :

In India there is an immediate requirement for at least 1000 trained physicians and therapists to cater to the existing cases of RSI, MSD and Childhood Disabilities that we know of in various metropolitan cities. Currently, there is no structured training available in India for physicians and therapists in the management of these conditions.

If the performance of the trainee is satisfactory, a position at RECOUP or at various on-site clinics at top Organisations at Bangalore, Pune, New Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad and other cities (being run by RECOUP) may be offered.

Selection of candidates for the course will be based on submission of detailed CV and personal interview.

The following course is under preparation and will be available later in 2009.

Online Postgraduate Diploma and M Sc Courses in Ergonomics

We are in the final stages of negotiations for obtaining University Affiliation for the above course. Please watch this space for updates.
Details of the other courses will shortly appear here  and on www.recoup.in.
Please apply by email to academics at recoup.in.

Over 55,000 clients, including several from countries like USA, Canada, UK, Ireland, France, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Poland, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Zimbabwe, Pakistan, Kuwait, Singapore, China, Korea, Thailand, Israel, New Zealand and Australia (besides from throughout India) have already been successfully treated at RECOUP since 2001.

RSI’s and people suffering from it vary and so does the treatment. However, the following information would be helpful as a guide to our prospective overseas clients.

Assessment

Dr. Sharan evaluates all patients before proposing an individualised treatment plan. The assessment includes a comprehensive musculoskeletal/myofascial examination with a focus on range of motion, trigger points, biomechanical problems, and evidence of nerve or blood vessel entrapment, plus any other pertinent tests according to the presenting symptoms. Further assessments may include a workstation evaluation with a focus on biomechanical and ergonomic issues, blood tests, nerve conduction studies, x-rays, and MRI Scans.

Other team members

• Physical and Occupational Therapists
• Clinical Psychologist
• Physician
• Nutritionist
• Yoga Therapist
• Fitness Trainers
• Alexander Teachers
• Feldenkrais Teachers
• Ergonomists

SHARAN’S® Protocol for RSI (Skilled Hands-on Approach for Release of myofascia, Articular, Neural and Soft-tissue mobilisation)

Phase 1 – Severe discomfort

• Ischaemic compression, deep pressure soft tissue massage
• Myofascial release
• Voluntary contraction and release methods
• Muscle Energy Technique
• Positional Release Techniques 
• Integrated Neuromuscular Inhibition therapy (INIT)
• Behavioural Management of Pain: Relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, Mindfulness training, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Sleep Hygiene
• Aquatic Therapy in a Swimming Pool 
• Alexander Technique 
• Yoga
• Kinesio and other taping modalities
• Interferential Therapy (IFT), Ultrasound, Laser, Functional Electrical Stimulation
• Spray and stretch                                                                                                                                                                                                                       
• Needling (TrP injections)

Phase 2 – Moderate discomfort

• Soft tissue, neural, articular (rib / clavicular / scapulo-thoracic) and/or spinal (Maitland, Mulligan) mobilisation
• Self-stretching exercises
• Nerve and tendon glides
• EMG Biofeedback
• Yoga                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               
• Alexander technique

Phase 3 – Mild discomfort

• Further self-stretching exercises
• Progressive strengthening exercises
• Postural retraining, body mechanics and ergonomics training on a model computer workstation
• Ergonomic furniture and accessory recommendation
• Yoga                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 
• Alexander technique

Phase 4 – Maintenance phase

• Further strength training
• Aerobic conditioning
• Yoga
• Alexander Technique                                                                                                                                                                                            

Usually, a team of 5-6 professionals, including the senior most therapists at RECOUP, is  selected for the treatment by Dr. Sharan. There is a designated therapy coordinator.

DURATION OF TREATMENT 

An average stay in Bangalore for 12 weeks is recommended for overseas clients with chronic pain, based on our previous experience. We use the DEEPAK SHARAN RSI Severity Score to judge the likely duration of recovery after the initial assessment.

FOLLOW UP

Dr. Sharan reviews a patient at least once a week and takes all clinical management decisions himself

LOCATION

RECOUP Neuromusculoskeletal Rehabilitation Centre, 312, Further Extension of Anjanapura Layout, 10th Block, Bangalore 560062, India (Phone: +91-80-64504224, 64504334)

Only in-patient treatment is available for overseas and outstation patients who wish to undergo the intensive rehabilitation programme.

The cost of stay in the Hospital or Guest House varies from Rs. 25,000 to 50,000 (USD $ 500 to 1,000) per month (1 GBP = Rs. 90 approx., 1 USD = Rs. 48 approx., 1 Euro = Rs. 70 approx). Please correspond with Bieju K Balan, Manager-Admin, RECOUP (bieju dot balan at recoup.in) for booking and further assistance.

COST OF TREATMENT

Approximately Rs. 65,000 (USD $ 1,300) per month. Visiting patients spend most of the day at RECOUP undergoing various therapies or reading about RSI at our library/resource center. Treatment is available on all days (including Sundays and Public Holidays). The cost includes consultation and treatment with the following professionals: Orthopaedics & Rehabilitation Specialist, Clinical Psychologist, Nutritionist, Ergonomist, Physiotherapist/Myotherapist/Occupational therapist, Yoga Therapist and other rehabilitation professionals (as required), rental for gymnasium and Ergonomics/postural training on a model workstation.  The costs of investigations/tests and food is not included in the package. Alexander lessons are also charged separately. We accept payment by credit card (VISA and Mastercard).

 This treatment regime, if taken in Australia, USA or Europe, assuming all the facilities can be put together, will cost over USD $ 50,000 per month at a conservative estimate

WAITING PERIOD

The usual waiting period for being accepted into RECOUP’s rehabilitation programme is 2 to 3 months.

UNIQUE FEATURES OF RECOUP

• One pitch stop centre for all musculoskeletal disorders under a single roof.
• Physician directed treatment, based on clinical protocols for specific MSDs developed at RECOUP.
• Holistic and multi disciplinary team approach.
• All the staff are RECOUP employees and work in a team.
• In-patient treatment that is convenient, economical and less strenuous.
• Relaxing atmosphere, away from the city rush.

RECOUP’S SUCCESS RATE

Success rate > 95%
400 patients treated daily; Over 55,000 patients treated since 2001

ABOUT RECOUP’S THERAPISTS

• The core group of therapists have been with RECOUP since its inception in 2001. Thirteen therapists have been working at RECOUP for durations ranging between 2 years and 8 years.
• RECOUP already has the largest Physiotherapy Department in the world and is still growing rapidly.
• An opportunity to work at RECOUP is now one of the prime career aspirations of freshly graduating therapists in India. There is currently a waiting list of over 100 therapists.
• RECOUP conducts an average of 3 International Conferences and Courses in Ergonomics and Musculoskeletal Disorders per year and organises personalised training for its staff.
• RECOUP’s staff have received exclusive hands-on training from renowned experts like Prof. Daniela Colombini, Dr. Natale Battevi, Ms. Lucia Pigini (Ergonomists from Milano, Italy; inventors of OCRA and MAPO methods of Ergonomics Assessment), Prof. Arun Garg and Jay Kapellusch (Ergonomists from Wisconsin, USA; inventor of Strain Index and NIOSH Lifting Equation), and Ms. Suparna Damany (RSI Physiotherapist and Author from Allentown, USA) among others.
• The 5 senior-most therapists at RECOUP have a collective experience of treating over 30,000 RSI patients.

We strongly recommend yoga as a beneficial fitness and relaxation technique, especially for people in sedentary jobs. Yoga is also an integral part of the SHARAN’S Protocol for treating Musculoskeletal Disorders like RSI.

However, some precautions should be observed in the use of yoga as a treatment modality for Musculoskeletal Disorders:

1. We do not recommend aggressive stretching in the acute stage of RSI, in the presence of active Myofascial Trigger Points or nerve entrapment. We only recommend relaxation techniques and breathing exercises initially and introduce other aspects of yoga at an appropriate stage in the rehabilitation.
2. It is necessary to individualise the asanas in people with complex musculoskeletal disorders and group sessions may sometimes be dangerous.
3. Several asanas need to be modified or avoided in RSI. This is possible only if the yoga therapist works in a multi-disciplinary medical team in a holistic environment.
4. We have seen numerous clients suffer severe flare-ups of RSI on starting Yoga prematurely or in a mixed group situation, even in reputed Yoga Institutes. We do not subscribe to the popular and simplistic view that practising Pranayama alone can cure all Musculoskeletal ailments.

RSI Yoga Courses at Bangalore

Prerequisite for entry:

You must be an existing client of RECOUP and require an assessment and referral by Dr. Sharan within 30 days prior to starting the course. This referral is not necessary if you have no symptoms and wish to join Yoga for overall fitness. Email me your contact details mentioning the preferred date of joining and location. I will send a report about your medical condition to the Yoga teacher.
Make the payment by cash or cheque addressed to “RECOUP.” Please hand over the payment to RECOUP’S Reception.
Turn up at the venue and start the course after showing the payment receipt to the teacher.

Locations: All branches of RECOUP in Bangalore

How does this course differ from other Yoga Lessons?

It is focused on recovery from RSI and other musculoskeletal disorders, is tailor made and delivered by a Physician (MBBS doctor) cum qualified Yoga Teacher who understands the medical aspects of RSI.

Cost: Rs. 250 per lesson of 45 minute. Treatment packages for 3 months are also available.

On site programmes subject to a minimum number of participants can be organised.

About the Technique

An Alexander Technique (AT) student will find his voice grow richer, his presence stronger, and his mood calmer and more alert. Whenever we move or think, we have a choice: we can use ourselves either intelligently or carelessly. AT lessons can teach you to use yourself with intelligence, improving professional and personal performance and promoting freedom from injury, rapid recovery and a better overall standard of health.

Musculo-skeletal disorders such as RSIs are among medical conditions that respond exceptionally well when someone “improves their use of themselves.” Lessons are typically one-on-one, and involve guiding touch and verbal instruction. No special clothes or equipment are needed, just a willingness to learn.

Our Elite Panel of Alexander Teachers (Expected to visit in 2009 or later):

• Padmini Menon: presently teaching at RECOUP since October 2008
• Tina Murphy: AT teacher and masseur from Waterford, Ireland (visiting from January 5, 2010 to January 30, 2010)
• Peter Hammond: AT Teacher from UK
• Laura Corcoran: AT teacher from London, UK
• Gabriele Breuninger: AT teacher from Frankfurt, Germany
• Mary Gallagher: AT teacher and Naturopathic Doctor from Seattle, Washington, USA
• Patrisha Hawkins: AT teacher, and Feldenkrais and Jin Shin Jyutsu Practitioner from Perth, Australia
• Elyse Shafarman: AT teacher and RSI Researcher from USA (http://www.bodyproject.us)
• Larissa Makila: AT teacher from Calgary, Canada
• Marilyn Lock: AT Yoga, Dance and Pilates Teacher, and Physiotherapist from Australia
• Diana Bradley: Director, Alexander in the Caribbean (St. Thomas), a Certified AT Teacher since 1979, and a founding member of Alexander Technique International and AmSat member. Diana’s excellent Alexander credentials include a 13-year apprenticeship with Marjorie Barstow, F.M. Alexander’s first certified teacher.
• Elena Lopez Sans: AT and Yoga Teacher for 12 years and 20 years respectively, based at New York, USA.
• Erika Senft Miller: AT teacher, Physical Therapist and Dance Educator from Colchester, USA.
• Joseph Stevens: Treasurer of Society of Teachers of Alexander Technique, based at London, UK.

Teachers who have already visited RECOUP, Bangalore:

• Georg Schmidt: AT Teacher from Wurzburg, Bavaria, Germany  (Visited in 2008 for 6 weeks)
• Daniel Harbach: AT Teacher from Zurich, Switzerland (Visited in 2007 for 4 weeks) http://alexanderte.ch
• Dr. Brian Tracey: an AT teacher, a practising Dentist and RSI patient himself from Sydney, Australia (Visited in 2006 for 4 weeks)
• Christine Hardy: an AT teacher and Psychoanalyst from Paris, France (Visited in 2006 for 4 weeks)
• Nick Mellor: an AT teacher based at Cumbria, UK and a RSI Patient himself (Visited in 2005 for 4 weeks) http://www.back-pain-self-help.com
• Vertti Pollanen: an AT teacher, masseur and trainee Osteopath from Finland (Visited in 2005 for 1 week) http://www.geocities.com/vertti_pollanen/English.html
   

BOOK YOUR ALEXANDER LESSONS NOW!

Fees:

Rs. 12,000 for 15 lessons
Rs. 900 for a single lesson
Rs. 500 for a taster lesson
Rs. 700 per lesson (after the initial 15 lessons)

Payment can be made by cash, credit card (Visa/Mastercard), DD or local cheque addressed to “RECOUP.” Please hand over the payment to RECOUP’s Reception or post the cheque/DD to the address given below.

Timings:

Tuesdays and Thursdays 8 am to 12 pm.

Location:

RECOUP Neuromusculoskeletal Rehabilitation Centre, 312, Further Extension of Anjanapura Layout, 10th Block, , Bangalore 560062, India

Number of lessons recommended:

15-20 one-on-one lessons (lasting about 40 minutes each) are usually required before one can start practising AT independently.

 

Reproduced below are some introductory articles:

Hope for people with RSI
Author: Sahana Charan
Bangalore, The Hindu, September 9, 2005
http://www.healthlibrary.com/news/2005/4-10-sep05/news16.html

Finding it hard to move your stiff neck after a hard day’s work? Or do you have shooting pain in your fingers and hands every time you touch a computer keyboard? People with repetitive strain injury (RSI) or musculo-skeletal disorders (MSD) often lose valuable time at work and home and their quality of life is affected. According to a study by Deepak Sharan, consultant, Bangalore Children’s Hospital and an expert in RSI and paediatric orthopaedics, 75 per cent of the computer professionals suffer from this disorder.

Repetitive strain injury is a work-related disorder which affects the neck, lower limb, lower back, legs, jaws, chest and vocal chords. But now there seems to be hope for such people. Thanks to Dr. Sharan, “Alexander Technique,” which is fairly new to India, is being introduced in the city. A number of experts from the U.K. and the U.S. are coming here at regular intervals to teach this technique to those affected by RSI so that they can lead productive lives. One such expert, who was in the city recently and worked with persons affected by RSI for a month, was Nick Mellor, an Alexander technique teacher based in Leeds, U.K.

“Alexander Technique (AT) is not a medical treatment for RSI but a set of skills for improving your performance. It essentially involves learning how to meet a stressful situation and to deal with it constructively,” explained Mr. Mellor, who was an RSI patient himself. AT helps in improving personal and professional effectiveness, mainly through better self care. One of the main principles of the technique is to teach people to exercise choice. “Whenever we move or think, we have a choice: we can use ourselves either intelligently or carelessly. AT lessons can teach you to use yourself with intelligence promoting freedom from injury, rapid recovery and a better overall standard of health,” he said. The lessons, which are mostly one to one, train you to take care of your head, neck and back. We teach people to use their big joints, their hips, ankles, knees, head and neck joints appropriately instead of bending their spines too often,” he added. He worked with around 30 persons here and 75 per cent of them started feeling a positive change after a few lessons.

 

Learning the Alexander Technique
Author: Dr Deepak Sharan
Bangalore, The Times of India, August 21, 2004

Over the past few weeks, I have been learning the Alexander Technique (AT) from a British teacher. Although unheard of in India, AT is well established in USA, Europe and Australia.

AT is an educational method that shows people how they are misusing their bodies due to work habits that create excessive amounts of static loading and how to reduce the unnecessary muscular force they are applying to their bodies. AT was developed by Fredrick Matthias Alexander (1869-1955), an Australian farmer-turned-actor with no academic or medical background.

Alexander was a sickly child who barely survived a stormy childhood to become a Shakespearean stage actor. Unfortunately, he developed a voice disorder and was unable to recite his lines. His doctors advised voice rest for a few months. When he returned to the stage, the problem persisted. Multiple tests turned out normal and he was told there was nothing wrong with him and was advised more rest cure. After unsuccessfully visiting a variety of medical and not so medical practitioners, he decided he had to find out for himself what was wrong because penury beckoned. Alexander figured out that the problem had something to do with what he did on stage, as he did not have any trouble with his voice when he was not acting. His co-actors told him that he made a gasping sound as he breathed in between lines.

Alexander then set up mirrors at strategic locations and observed himself when he spoke normally and when he recited. He discovered that when he got ready to recite he drew in air with a loud gasp and tensed his neck muscles pulling his head back and down. He also made his entire body shorter and tenser, restricting his breathing and freedom of movement. By means of prolonged, tedious experiments Alexander found a way of preventing this pattern from initiating during recitation. He subsequently found new and better ways of using the various parts of his body involved in reciting. The final result was that Alexander’s voice trouble vanished and thus was AT born.

 

Benefiting from an AT Lesson
Author: Dr Deepak Sharan
Bangalore, The Times of India, August 28, 2004

What is common between Paul Newman (actor), Roald Dahl (author), Sting (singer), John Cleese (comedian), George Bernard Shaw (playwright) and a host of musicians and opera singers worldwide? All of them practice(d) Alexander Technique (AT) in their daily lives. Dr. William Barlow, a Consultant Rheumatologist in UK, was a prominent AT teacher, and AT is still practiced in several NHS pain clinics in UK. Yet, unlike many complementary modalities AT makes no sale pitch at being a cure-all.

AT is not a therapy, though it has therapeutic effects, but an educational process. It is not something where you just lie down passively and let a practitioner treat you. It teaches you not facts, but how to learn about yourself, for yourself, what habits of body use you have and how you can prevent the harmful misuse.

During the lesson, the teacher guides a student to improve coordination in activities like getting up from a chair and sitting down, and lying down without tensing the muscles, skillfully using his hands to provide the tactile feedback. AT prevents or inhibits misuse due to subconscious, habitual directions and then builds up the primary control with consciously chosen directions, leading to a more effective use of the body. After each lesson, I could experience enhanced body flexibility, and a subtle perception of increase in the length of spine and limbs. Like me, many people take AT lessons, not because of health problems, but because they find it a valuable tool for improving their wellbeing and self-knowledge. Some also take it for painful conditions like RSI.

Most people need about 30 lessons of 45 minutes each before they can successfully begin applying AT on their own. I think the key to success with AT lies in finding a highly skilled and experienced teacher, and by taking individual (rather than group) lessons. At present there are no AT teachers in India, but I plan to have an eminent teacher from the UK visit Bangalore twice a year to give lessons.