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The Alexander Technique, named after its developer Frederick Matthias Alexander (1869–1955), is a type of alternative therapy based on the idea that poor posture gives rise to a range of health problems.[1][2]: 221 The American National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health classifies it as a "psychological and physical" complementary approach to health when used "together with" mainstream methods. When used "in place of" conventional medicine, it is considered "alternative".[3]
Alexander began developing his technique's principles in the 1890s[4] in an attempt to address his own voice loss during public speaking.[2]: 34–35 He credited his method with allowing him to pursue his passion for performing Shakespearean recitations.[5]
Proponents and teachers of the Alexander Technique believe the technique can address a variety of health conditions, but there is a lack of research to support the claims.[6][7] As of 2021[update], the UK National Health Service and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) cite evidence which suggests that the Alexander Technique may be helpful for long-term back pain and for long-term neck pain, and that it could help people cope with Parkinson's disease.[7][8] Both the American health-insurance company Aetna and the Australian Department of Health have conducted reviews and concluded that there is insufficient evidence for the technique's health claims to warrant insurance coverage.[6][9]
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