Alexander Technique

[Pupsiecola]

Has anyone got any experience of this? I am plagued with neck/upper body issues and I am hell bent on trying to improve the current situation which is really getting me down.

TIA

I went for physio and had three deep sports massages. He recommended Pilates for strengthening the core and also gave a load of exercises. The pain was on my neck and shoulders and upper back but it was my lower back that is actually the problem...

Have you tried an osteopath?

I read a book on it and followed the guidelines.

I think it’s a good idea.

Never met a practitioner though.

Don't! Unless you know 100% what is wrong with your spine and the exercise will be beneficial to your condition. This technique left my friend with worse problems than on the outset.
Best way to deal with it is GP and anything that will strengthen your core muscles in terms of exercise.

Thanks for the replies. I have done Pilates for about 10 years, but haven't done much recently so I do need to sign up to another class. My core is still strong though :-). I'm fit and healthy and like to run and to lift weights and do HIIT. I'm physically strong and I have a sports massage every 3 weeks. I've had physio recently for my neck. I wouldn't see a chiro or ostepath, I don't think.

I know much of it is posture related (I've had an x-ray and an MRI and in the past seen a shoulder specialist). Got some wear and tear going on too. So I'm specifically looking for something to help wtih posture/

Sorry. Hit send too early... posture/head forward position.

I had a course of 15-20 Alexander Technique lessons about 25 years ago - so while I cannot offer much up to date experience, I can talk about the longer term impacts.

For me, it was useful for a number of different things, mainly to do with giving thought to the ‘stacking’ of my spine - lifting up from the head (but not the chin) and allowing each bone in my spine to feel supported. I learned how to stand easily, without undue pressure on any part of my body (and to stand in this way when doing everyday tasks like brushing teeth). I find it much easier to sit comfortably if I think about my posture. There are also things to do with being present in the moment, and releasing tensions from focusing either on the past or the future.

On the other hand, I am currently slouched on a chair, having heaved my heavy handbag home on the same shoulder as it’s been for the past 25 years...some lessons just didn’t quite sink in!

I am now 50, so while the lessons are a distant memory, I would have to say that I found them beneficial and they have served me well over the years.

That's helpful Golden thank you. I have found and booked an advanced Pilates class to start early January. I've emailed a couple of AT teachers. I might just see if I can have a couple of one to ones. I imagine once you know what to do and have practised a bit you can continue by yourself as it's something to apply 24/7 (well, during waking hours at least).

Hi I only joined mumsnet. I'm an Alexander Technique teacher practising in E5 N16. Let me know if you need some information about the Technique or like a 1-2-1 lesson. I also run classes for mums and babies 0-9months

It’s expensive and there isn’t evidence it has medical benefit.