I am an Asthma sufferer what alternative therapies can you recommend?

Posted by: Anonymous

Date Entered: Sep 28, 2009

Last Update: Sep 28, 2009 - 4:36 PM

I am an Asthma sufferer and I enjoy playing football but when I run I lose my breath really quickly, what would be the best therapy for me?

The Bowen Release Move can be an alternative to Ventolin

Posted by: Jo Lunn

Date Entered: Sep 28, 2009

Buteyko is a method that re-teaches people to breathe which many have found beneficial for asthma and breathing difficulties

The Bowen Technique also gives excellent results for asthma. Research has shown how it can effectively reduce the severity of asthma attacks see here.

The Bowen Release Move

The Bowen Asthma Emergency Procedure is taught on the Bowen Technique courses as part of the Respiratory Procedure. It is quick to administer. In a full attack, the stomach and chest appear to collapse inwards because of the Diaphragm going into full spasm. Most, if not all, of my asthma cases also use this move instead of Ventolin. If it does not work, it is perfectly alright to use the reliever spray.

1. In a major asthma attack:
   • Call the Emergency Services immediately.
   • While waiting for help to arrive, the following procedure often produces immediate relief. Remain calm as the victim will be very anxious.
   • In a full attack, the person may not be able to breath out at all.
2. To release the full spasm of the diaphragm, find the bottom of the Breast Bone (fig 1). Just below it is the very sensitive Xiphoid Process just under the skin (small children may not yet have a fully developed Xiphoid Process).
3. Place a thumb about one inch below the Xiphoid Process in the soft "stomach" area (fig 2).
4. Gently push the skin up about 1-inch (fig 3).
5. Apply a small amount of pressure inwards, and
6. Pull the thumb down moderately quickly and firmly to release the spasm (fig 4). This should release the spasm immediately and the air is then released from the lungs.
7. If not, try again..