Parkinson's Disease

Preliminary research has indicated the value of the Alexander technique in ameliorating the symptoms of Parkinson's Disease. This preliminary research involved quite a small number of participants and funding is hard to raise for a larger trial (there is no potential profits in this research for the drug companies).

Randomized controlled trial of the Alexander Technique for idiopathic Parkinson's disease (2002)

Retention of skills learnt in Alexander technique lessons: 28 people with idiopathic Parkinson's disease (2004)

However many Parkinson patients have found a considerable level of relief after undertaking Alexander technique lessons.

Click here for a detailed case study of one patient recorded by Alexander Teacher Marigold Smith

And here is another link to an article by Alexander teacher and researcher Chloe Stallibrass. The article is addressed to Alexander technique teachers, but will give you an idea of how work with an Alexander technique teacher may help patients with this condition.

Alexander technique lessons for Parkinson 's disease patients

In an Alexander technique lesson the teacher will provide verbal instructions as well as gentle manual guidance which will help to reduce tremor and rigidity and improve balance.

We do offer lessons for Parkinson's disease sufferers living in Melbourne. Normally you can expect to come twice a week for a series of 10 lessons and then reduce the frequency to once a week for another 10 lessons. Because of the progressive nature of Parkinson's disease you may then choose to continue lessons indefinately.

In the case of people with Parkinson's disease who do continue after this initial course of lessons the school can offer lessons at a reduced rate for those whose financial situation would otherwise not allow for them to continue with these lessons.