Det er stor interesse i Feldenkraismiljøet for forskning på metoden og flere vitenskaplige artikler har blitt skrevet over de siste tiårene. Noen er teoretiske, andre mer erfaringsbaserte. Det er også gjort effektstudier.

Den tilgjengelige forskningen viser gode resultater ved bruk av metoden, med forbehold om usikkerhet på grunn av gruppestørrelser, metodebruk mm. Feldenkraismiljøet er lite, med små økonomiske ressurser, og forskning tar derfor tid og beveger seg sakte fremover.

Det er flere internasjonale nettsider med oversikt over den tilgjengelige forskningen og som oppdateres når nye vitenskapelige artikler og forskning blir publisert. I Norge er det ikke gjennomført studier, men metoden er beskrevet i flere hovedfags- og masteroppgaver ved universiteter.

Under er linker til viktige nettsider som kan gi en oversikt over eksisterende og kommende vitenskaplige artikler/studier

https://feldenkraisresearchjournal.org/index.php/journal

https://feldenkrais.com/research-2/

Nedenfor er referert 7 studier gjort på Feldenkraismetoden. Alle er hentet fra en database for medisinsk forskning, www.pubmed.gov

The Effectiveness of the Feldenkrais Method: A Systematic Review of the Evidence

Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2015; 2015: 752160. Published online 2015 Apr 8. doi: 10.1155/2015/752160 Susan Hillier  ^* and Anthea Worley 

Abstract: The Feldenkrais Method (FM) has broad application in populations interested in improving awareness, health, and ease of function. This review aimed to update the evidence for the benefits of FM, and for which populations. A best practice systematic review protocol was devised. Included studies were appraised using the Cochrane risk of bias approach and trial findings analysed individually and collectively where possible. Twenty RCTs were included (an additional 14 to an earlier systematic review). The population, outcome, and findings were highly heterogeneous. However, meta-analyses were able to be performed with 7 studies, finding in favour of the FM for improving balance in ageing populations (e.g., timed up and go test MD −1.14 sec, 95% CI −1.78, −0.49; and functional reach test MD 6.08 cm, 95% CI 3.41, 8.74). Single studies reported significant positive effects for reduced perceived effort and increased comfort, body image perception, and dexterity. Risk of bias was high, thus tempering some results. Considered as a body of evidence, effects seem to be generic, supporting the proposal that FM works on a learning paradigm rather than disease-based mechanisms. Further research is required; however, in the meantime, clinicians and professionals may promote the use of FM in populations interested in efficient physical performance and self-efficacy.

Link til full-tekst artikkel: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4408630/

Feldenkrais Method Balance Classes Improve Balance in Older Adults: A Controlled Trial Hindawi Publishing Corporation Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine Volume 2011, Article ID 873672, 9 pages doi:10.1093/ecam/nep055

Karol A. Connors, ^{1, 2 ,} Mary P. Galea, ^{1, 3 , *} and Catherine M. Said ^{1, 3 ,}

Abstract: The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of Feldenkrais Method balance classes on balance and mobility in older adults. This was a prospective non-randomized controlled study with pre/post measures. The setting for this study was the general community. A convenience sample of 26 community-dwelling older adults (median age 75 years) attending Feldenkrais Method balance classes formed the Intervention group. Thirty-seven volunteers were recruited for the Control group (median age 76.5 years). A series of Feldenkrais Method balance classes (the 33312Getting Grounded Gracefully33313 series), two classes per week for 10 weeks, were conducted. Main outcome measures were Activities-Specific Balance Confidence (ABC) questionnaire, Four Square Step Test (FSST), self-selected gait speed (using GAITRite instrumented gait mat). At re-testing, the Intervention group showed significant improvement on all of the measures (ABC, P = .016, FSST, P = .001, gait speed, P < .001). The Control group improved significantly on one measure (FSST, P < .001). Compared to the Control group, the Intervention group made a significant improvement in their ABC score (P = .005), gait speed (P = .017) and FSST time (P = .022). These findings suggest that Feldenkrais Method balance classes may improve mobility and balance in older adults.

Link til full-tekst artikkel: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3137762/

Movement-based embodied contemplative practices: definitions and paradigms

Front Hum Neurosci. 2014; 8: 205. Published online 2014 Apr 14.

Laura Schmalzl,^1,2,*† Mardi A. Crane-Godreau,^3,4,† and Peter Payne^3,†

Abstract: Over the past decades, cognitive neuroscience has witnessed a shift from predominantly disembodied and computational views of the mind, to more embodied and situated views of the mind. These postulate that mental functions cannot be fully understood without reference to the physical body and the environment in which they are experienced. Within the field of contemplative science, the directing of attention to bodily sensations has so far mainly been studied in the context of seated meditation and mindfulness practices. However, the cultivation of interoceptive, proprioceptive and kinesthetic awareness is also said to lie at the core of many movement-based contemplative practices such as Yoga, Qigong, and Tai Chi. In addition, it likely plays a key role in the efficacy of modern somatic therapeutic techniques such as the Feldenkrais Method and the Alexander Technique. In the current paper we examine how these practices are grounded in the concepts of embodiment, movement and contemplation, as we look at them primarily through the lens of an enactive approach to cognition. Throughout, we point to a series of challenges that arise when Western scientists study practices that are based on a non-dualistic view of mind and body.

Keywords: Yoga, Qigong, Somatics, embodiment, movement, contemplation, proprioception, mindfulness

Link til full-tekst artikkel: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3995074/

Feldenkrais Method, Alexander Technique, and yoga–body awareness therapy in the performing arts. Phys Med Rehabil Clin N Am, 2006 Nov;17(4):865-75.

Marcy Schlinger ¹

Abstract: The three disciplines described are practiced by many individuals for a myriad of reasons. Depending upon ability and depth of study, teachers of all three disciplines may have specific competencies with which to analyse, instruct, and interact with students/clients. In the author’s experience, persons who seek out these practices and incorporate them into their daily lives and expressions of physical activity often are motivated to maintain or establish an optimal state of well-being and function. Physicians and therapists who work with performing artists are in a position to encourage such positive direction in patients, provide information on local resources, and consider the practices as collaborative and adjunctive to medical care.

Does the Feldenkrais Method make a difference? An investigation into the use of outcome measurement tools for evaluating changes in clients. J Bodyw Mov Ther., 2011 Oct;15(4):446-52.

Karol Anne Connors ¹, Carolyn Pile, Margo Elaine Nichols

Abstract: Evidence-based practice confirms the need for outcome measures. Feldenkrais Method practitioners struggle to use such tools because of the broad range of applications of the Feldenkrais Method and the difficulty identifying suitable measurement tools. A pre/post-test design was used to investigate the use of three outcome measurement tools [Patient-specific Functional Scale (PSFS), Pain Outcome Profile (POP) and Short Form12v2 Health questionnaire (SF12v2)] for clients experiencing problems performing everyday functional tasks who attended Feldenkrais sessions. Eleven Feldenkrais practitioners submitted data on 48 clients. Changes were detected in the clients’ ability to perform everyday tasks (PSFS improved 3.8 points, p < 0.001), levels of pain decreased (POP improved in current pain p = 0.001, physical index p < 0.001 and affective index p = 0.001) and quality of life improved significantly in six of the eight SF12v2 domains. These three tools have been found to be suitable for detecting changes in client function before and after a series of Feldenkrais sessions.

Feldenkrais Method balance classes are based on principles of motor learning and postural control retraining: a qualitative research study. Physiotherapy, 2010 Dec;96(4):324-36.

Karol A Connors ¹, Mary P Galea, Cathy M Said, Louisa J Remedios

Abstract: Background: Feldenkrais Method balance classes have been found to be effective in improving balance in recent studies, but there has been little research into possible mechanisms behind the effectiveness of these classes. Indeed, there has been little research into the content of any balance training classes. Objectives: To analyse the content of a series of Feldenkrais Method balance classes to gain an understanding of how the results in these studies may have been achieved and the principles through which the method may be effective. Design: Qualitative research approach (content analysis). Method: Feldenkrais Method Awareness Through Movement lessons were transcribed and the contents were analysed. An intercoder reliability study was undertaken. Results: The content analysis revealed that the classes used motor skill acquisition elements of internal feedback, repetition and variability of practice using an exploratory learning approach. Postural control skills of intersegmental coordination of ankle/hip/trunk synergies were practised, with control of the centre of mass over the base of support explored in anterior/posterior, medio/lateral, diagonal, rotational and circular directions. Key findings were the extensive involvement of trunk flexibility and control in the balance activities, and also the intensive attention to internal feedback which was linked to body awareness training. Conclusion: The Awareness Through Movement lessons contained many elements consistent with current theories of motor skill acquisition and postural control, providing a sound theoretical basis for the effectiveness of the Feldenkrais approach in improving balance. The methodology used in this study may provide a useful model for similar investigations into other balance training approaches.

Facilitating Cervical Flexion Using a Feldenkrais Method: Awareness through Movement. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther., 1992;16(1):25-9.

S Ruth, S Kegerreis

Abstract: Feldenkrais methods appear to be gaining popularity and utilization by physical therapists. The need for scientific justification of their usage is indicated. The purpose of this study was to quantify the results of a Feldenkrais method-Awareness Through Movement-involving a neck flexion task. The study examined 30 normal subjects to determine if a Feldenkrais Awareness Through Movement sequence would result in an increase in neck flexion range of motion and if the subjects would indicate a significantly lower level of perceived effort posttest. Measurements of range of motion were taken using a gravity-based cervical range of motion goniometer. The subjects recorded their perceived efforts on a visual analogue scale. The range of motion data were analyzed using a one-way ANOVA. The visual analogue scale data were analyzed with a Mann-Whitney U test. The data supported both hypotheses. Based on these findings, further investigation of Feldenkrais methods in the treatment of patients appears warranted.

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