Feldenkrais as group treatment for chronic pain

Researchers at Umea University, in Sweden, report on the experiences of people with chronic pain after Feldenkrais group intervention.

First, the details.

• 14 women with non-specific neck and shoulder pain participated in group treatment using the Feldenkrais Awareness Through Movement method.
• Data were collected from diary notes after the sessions and from interviews 4 to 6 months later.

And, the results.

• The participants’ major opinions about the group intervention:
  • “Feldenkrais is wholesome, but difficult”
• Participants’ descriptions of effects of the movement therapy:
  • “More erect without effort”
  • “Extended space for myself”
• The women described changes in posture and balance, a feeling of release, and increased self-confidence.
• Some ambivalence about the method was expressed, especially regarding the difficulty to continue the exercises at home.
• Feelings of improved body awareness remained after 4 to 6 months.
• The women were also more aware of their attitudes towards activities in daily life.

The bottom line?

The authors concluded, “Positive experiences from the Feldenkrais group treatment were reported, especially concerning movement ability and body awareness.”

Interesting that in a “study” of patients with chronic pain, there were no results related to changes in, well… pain.

3/23/11 20:38 JR