Feldenkrais method on neck and low back pain to the type of exercises and outcome measurement tools: A systematic review

Abstract

Introduction: Feldenkrais method (FM) has been applied on a large number of people as an educational method to create awareness of themselves and of their own body postures. Despite several existing FM studies, there has not yet been a review of FM in the context of musculoskeletal disorders. Aim: This review aimed at determining the effect, type of exercises, duration and the outcome measure utilized in assessing the FM among individuals with neck and low back pain (LBP). Material and methods: Four databases were searched for eligible studies, which were published in the years 1999-2015. Two authors individually assessed selected studies. From a total of 165 articles, 3 articles were selected and another 1 article from other resources with a total of 4 articles. Results and discussion: The number of participants in all of the four included studies were 65.5 AE 30.1 (mean AE SD). The quality of the studies that was assessed using Physiotherapy Evidence Databases (PEDro) scale revealed the score of at least 5/10. Evidence exists that FM may be used for treating musculoskeletal disorders. However, the studies were not enough to make a decision because of different selections of FM lessons, duration and outcome measures. The review also determined type of exercises and outcome utilized in assessing the benefit of FM. Conclusions: Overall, judging from the increasing number of articles in recent years related to FM, this review reports sufficient evidence that FM is increasingly being used in the management of neck pain and LBP.

Comparison of the effects of the Feldenkrais method versus core stability exercise in the management of chronic low back pain: a randomised control trial

“…Feldenkrais method improves proprioceptive awareness via conducted treatment sessions with verbal guidance of the trainer. 13 The Feldenkrais method is a self-learning method to select the most suitable technique for moving the body. The Feldenkrais method is categorised as a pedagogical method.…”

“…The Feldenkrais method is categorised as a pedagogical method. 13 Sensorimotor practices and experimental methods of movements lead to the self-learning process in which individuals will be aware of their most appropriate and painless method of body movement. 13,14 The purpose is to modify incorrect posture with the aim of reducing the pain.…”

“…13 Sensorimotor practices and experimental methods of movements lead to the self-learning process in which individuals will be aware of their most appropriate and painless method of body movement. 13,14 The purpose is to modify incorrect posture with the aim of reducing the pain. 13 Motor learning via external emphasis of attention (verbal instruction of the trainer) is achieved in the Feldenkrais method.…”

“…13,14 The purpose is to modify incorrect posture with the aim of reducing the pain. 13 Motor learning via external emphasis of attention (verbal instruction of the trainer) is achieved in the Feldenkrais method. 15 Improving functional integration is the second principal methods applied in the Feldenkrais method.…”

“…14 According to the high prevalence of low back pain and its disabling effects on quality of life and productivity of occupations, developing complementary treatment approaches is mandated. 16 Studies that have evaluated the effects of the Feldenkrais method in individuals with low back pain are limited 7,[11][12][13] and there is limited evidence about the comparative effects of the Feldenkrais method versus other treatment methods in individuals with low back pain. 13 The challenging question is whether if there are any advantages in the Feldenkrais method over exercise therapy in individuals with low back pain in a comprehensive evaluation framework?…”