Improving Sensory Motor Function after a

Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)

The Feldenkrais approach to sensory motor education

Cindy Allison
MA (Psychology)
FELDENKRAIS practitioner, MNZFG

October, 2008

Acknowledgements

I would like to extend a warm thanks to all those people with spinal cord injuries,
Feldenkrais practitioners and other friends who have provided me with testimonials,
DVDs, books, photographs, articles, information, advice and encouragement.

October, 2008

Table of Contents
If I have ever met a genius in the flesh, it is Moshe Feldenkrais.
Avram Baniel, Professor of Industrial Chemistry, Hebrew University, Jerusalem. Rosenfeld
(1981)

Introduction......................................................................................................................1
1. The Importance of Relearning .....................................................................................2
2. What is the Feldenkrais Method? ................................................................................6
3. Research into the Feldenkrais Method.........................................................................9
4. SCI Rehabilitation Programmes and Case Studies ....................................................11
5. SCI Endorsements and Testimonials .........................................................................16
6. Some Feldenkrais Principles in Practice ....................................................................20
7. Feldenkrais Practitioners and Resources ...................................................................26
About the Author ...........................................................................................................27
References ......................................................................................................................28

October, 2008

October, 2008

Introduction
The system developed by Dr Feldenkraishas as much potential for understanding the
mind/body relationship as Einsteins general theory of relativity had for physics.
Bernard Lake, MD, Cardiologist, Author, Feldenkrais practitioner (Wildman, 2000)
Audience
This booklet is intended for people with spinal cord injury (SCI) and their support crew
including family, friends, carers and health professionals.
Aim
This booklet is intended as a brief introduction to the Feldenkrais Method and its
relevance to recovering sensory motor function in SCI. Other benefits, such as reduction
in pain and spasm, are mentioned and a brief introduction to the sensory motor system is
included. It is not intended to cover all the benefits people have experienced through the
Method. For many with pain and disability, the Feldenkrais Method has been life
changing.
At times I have included the academic qualifications of people I have quoted. This is to
illustrate that many people with scientific backgrounds have scrutinised the Method.

October, 2008

1. The Importance of Relearning

The execution of an action by no means proves that we know, even superficially, what
we are doing or how we are doing it. If we attempt to carry out an action with awareness
- that is, to follow it in detail - we soon discover that even the simplest and most common
of actions, such as getting up from a chair, is a mystery, and that we have no idea at all of
how it is done.
Moshe Feldenkrais, PhD (Feldenkrais, 1990, p.46)
Introduction
Relearning is a very effective (if not the most effective) way to enhance our movement
capabilities. To understand how our movement can be improved, it helps to understand
how we control movement and how we learn to move.
How we control movement
Movement is controlled by the sensory motor system via the central nervous system.
Sensory information (such as proprioception or joint position sense) is sent via the
sensory neurons (or nerve cells), up the spinal cord, to the brain. From the brain, a
response is sent back down the spinal cord via the motor neurons. Neurons transmit a
series of electrochemical impulses through the body. Impulses are sent from one neuron
to the next, forming neuronal pathways from the brain to the muscles. As a movement
takes place, proprioceptive information (or information about the bodys new position in
space) is sent back to the brain via the sensory neurons. Again this is as a series of
impulses with each ne uron connecting to the next neuron in the chain.

Sensory nerves

Motor nerves

For instance, as the right heel touches the ground in

walking, the sensory neurons provide information to the
brain about the external environment (e.g. the ground
surface under the foot, how much space there is in front
of us) and our internal environment (e.g. where the left
leg is in relation to the right leg, the position of the head
in relation to the spine). This information is integrated
and an instruction is sent to the muscles to perform the
next action in the walking sequence.

Thus a constant interchange of information is sent via the

sensory motor system allowing complex actions to take
place without us having to constantly think about how to perform them. When the
movements are well coordinated, they are smooth and controlled, muscle contractions are
sequenced and timed to perform an intended function and you are simultaneously
dextrous, strong and flexible.
How we develop movement and proprioception
Learning to move begins in childhood. During the first year of life, babies start to
explore movement. As they explore movement, their image of themselves and whe re
they are in their environment improves and thus their sensory motor system improves.

October, 2008

They experience sucking, grabbing objects, looking

around; all the time using their whole body to perform
movements. If the head moves, the whole body moves
to assist with the movement of the head. As they
develop, they learn to control their movement. They
learn to transfer weight, to roll, to crawl, to sit, to stand
and to walk. As the major joints, such as the shoulder
joints, become more stable, they learn fine motor skills
such as control of hand functions. As children develop
further, they explore movements and find easier and
more efficient ways of doing things. Thus movements
that are initially clumsy and require a great deal of
concentration will eventually become automatic and
graceful.
By the time movement becomes automatic, we are no
longer aware of the detailed intricacies of our body
image and movement; nor do we remember learning
them. Coordinated movement has become so automatic
and our body image such a natural part of ourselves that
when we lose them (such as after an SCI) we have no
idea of how to recreate them. This however does not
necessarily mean we do not have the potential to
recreate them. In many cases it may be a matter of
relearning in a similar way to how we originally learnt.
Neuroplasticity
In the human nervous system there are numerous neurons and numerous possible
neuronal pathways through which information could be transmitted. Yet we only use a
fraction of our potential. Most of these pathways are developed in childhood. As we
learn, neuronal connections are developed. After an SCI, neurons die and many of the
pathways we have developed in childhood are destroyed.
Until the 1970s it was the belief amongst mainstream scientists that the adult brain was
fixed; that it was not possible to make new neuronal connections beyond childhood. In
the 1980s, Merzenich and colleagues demonstrated the ability of the monkey cortex to
create new connections. This has been seen to be of value in rehabilitation including
after stroke, repetitive strain injury and SCI (Holloway, 2004). By stimulating weak
connections and inducing those neurons that are still alive to make new connections, it is
possible to activate some recovery of function (Ginsburg, 1980).
Relearning: a paradigm shift
The traditional approach to SCI rehabilitation has focused on compensation. This is based
on the assumption that the central nervous system is hardwired and unable to relearn.
Typical approaches in SCI rehabilitation have been to compensate for lost function using
assistive devices, to teach new strategies for achieving activities of daily living and to
strengthen the still active muscles. However in recent years there has been a shift in

October, 2008

focus in SCI rehabilitation with a focus on relearning how to move in a coordinated way
(Behrman, Bowden & Nair, 2006).
The presence of isolated muscle contractions
(whilst encouraging) is not enough. We need to
know how to organise those movements in a
coordinated way. Without coordination,
movements are characterised by spasms, tics and
tremors and functioning is painful, tiring, slow
and often impossible.

JM before walking lessons

JM after walking lessons

In recent years, some rehabilitation specialists

have been investigating the ability of people with
SCI to relearn how to coordinate movement.
Much of this work has been done around walking.
A number of studies have shown that, after injury,
some people have been able to improve their
walking skills using locomotor training
(Behrman, Bowden & Nair, 2006).
In a study on walking with SCI, Merima
Isakovic-Cocker (2006) discusses how, after SCI,
coordination of movement must be re-taught. For
a healthy walking person, walking is automatic. It
is generally performed without awareness; the
walker may not be conscious of the individual
factors involved in the performance. After SCI,
the ability to coordinate the movements that make
up walking is often unavailable. This skill needs
to be re-taught.

Isakovic-Cocker (who has herself sustained an SCI) worked with a

man (JM) who had had an incomplete SCI at C4. He was able to
walk but walked awkwardly, had a high degree of spasticity and
felt dangerously unstable. Using a learning approach she taught
him to walk with a normal, stable gait. Not only was he able to
walk normally, but he experienced many of the other benefits that
come with walking normally - less energy expenditure and fatigue,
and greater feelings of confidence, comfort and pleasure.
Whilst for a number of people learning to walk is a huge
advantage, for many there are other goals. For some, being able to
operate a power wheelchair or bring the ir hand to the ir face is their
immediate dream. There are many for whom proprioception is
severely damaged and restoration of proprioception may be a prerequisite to relearning movement.

October, 2008

Merima stands with a

T12/L1 complete injury

Proprioception
Proprioception (or joint position sense) is the ability to determine where parts of the body
are in space. Loss of proprioception is a significant consequence of SCI, yet it is
frequently overlooked in rehabilitation (Committee on Spinal Cord Injury et al, 2005).
Proprioception is important for a number of reasons.
1. It is critical in coordinating walking and other movements (Committee on Spinal
Cord Injury et al, 2005). With compromised proprioception, mo vement is awkward
or impossible.
2. It has been found that decreases in proprioception have been associated with increases
in pain (Schwoebel, Friedman, Duda & Coslett, 2001; Byl & Melnick, 1997).
3. Loss of proprioception has been found to result in people ha ving negative feelings
about their body (Sacks, 1990).
4. Proprioception is also important in our ability to stabilise joints and reduce injury
(Alexander, n.d.).
Related to proprioception is kinaesthesia, the ability to feel ourselves moving.
Kinaesthesia and proprioception are often used interchangeably, but with kinaesthesia
there is more emphasis on the sense of motion. Without kinaesthesia, the input to the
brain via the sensory nerves is adversely affected. This in turn affects the message to the
motor nerves.
Proprioception and kinaesthesia can be relearned.
Proprioception and joint stability
In order to move easily, we need to be able to stabilise our joints. Joint stability is
attained through the engagement of tonic muscle (type 1) fibres. Tonic fibres are found
predominantly in the postural muscles and help one to stay upright. They are responsible
for control and protection of the joint and are resistant to fatigue. In contrast, phasic
muscles fibres (type 2) are generally responsible for producing movement and fatigue
quickly (Alexander, n.d.). After SCI, tonic fibres change to become phasic fibres (Scelsi,
2001) which may compromise stability, movement and proprioception and increase the
risk of injury. On the other hand, proprioceptive training has been found to reduce injury
(Alexander, n.d.).
When one is unable to stabilise joints with tonic muscles, they may compensate by cocontracting phasic muscles. This means the phasic muscles are unavailable for
movement.

October, 2008

2. What is the Feldenkrais Method?

The Feldenkrais Method (FM) "focuses on expanding kinesthetic awareness as a basis for
improving function. FM offers guidelines for directing a learning experience for a patient
that are individualized, yet based in common features of human anatomy and patterns of
movement.
Jim Stephens, PhD, Assistant Professor, Physical Therapy Department, Temple
University, Feldenkrais practitioner (Stephens, 2000, p.375)
Introduction
The Feldenkrais Method is a form of sensory motor education. It helps to restore
proprioception and coordinated movement, by combining an understanding of the
complexities of movement with an understanding of the learning process. This leads to
improved function and reduced tension and pain. Func tional improvement can be
anything from learning to breathe more easily and balance more comfortably in your
wheelchair to walking.
Learning how to learn
A key component of the Method is learning how to learn; both neurological and cognitive
learning takes place. At the neurological level, you are forming new neuronal pathways
by doing new movements in an easy way. The brain will naturally select the path of least
resistance; it will adopt that pattern of movement which is easiest. This means that
moveme nt is automatically improved; your conscious mind doesnt have to be constantly
reminding you of what you should be doing.
At the cognitive level, you can learn principles of movement so that you are able to
explore the movements on your own. During lessons you discover for yourself the quality
of coordinated movement and the
principles that govern this. The more
you begin to understand the Method and
the more aware you become of your
own body, the more you can facilitate
your own learning and improve between
sessions.
The Feldenkrais Method is not a
therapy, an exercise program or a form
of bodywork. It does not involve
strengthening or stretching muscles and
you will not experience any form of
A Feldenkrais Awareness Through Movement lesson
manipulation or forceful releases as
occur in many forms of bodywork. It is a scientifically-based tool for learning that
effects long term change.

October, 2008

The founder of the Method

The Method was developed by Dr Moshe Feldenkrais (1904 to 1984), an Israeli born in
Russia. Moshe (a physicist, engineer and martial artist) has been dubbed a genius by
many. After developing a painful chronic knee problem in the 1940s, he combined his
knowledge of martial arts, neurophysiology, anatomy, learning theory, child
development, systems theory, physics and psychology, to develop a system to teach
himself to walk again without pain.
This led him to teaching at universities in North America, Israel, Sorbonne in Paris and
throughout Europe. Amongst his enthusiastic pupils were prominent individuals such as
Professor Karl Pribram (Stanford University neurophysiologist and Nobel Prize
nominee), Margaret Mead (world-renowned anthropologist) and David Ben-Gurion
(Israel's first prime minister and named one of Time magazine's 100 most important
people of the 20th century). Robert Schleip (1994) (PhD in Human Biology, MA in
Psychology, Feldenkrais practitioner) relates an anecdote about Pribram in his forward to
the German edition of Moshe's book "Body and Mature Behaviour". Nobel prizewinning neurophysiologist, Luria, instigated a meeting of leading neuroscientists to
discuss a new surgical procedure for epilepsy. Pribram realised that the intervention was
not necessary; that the same outcome could be reached without invasive surgery. He left
the room and returned with "Body and Mature Behaviour", the source of his inspiration.
Whilst even this century, other scientists have been exploring how to incorporate their
knowledge of neuroplasticity into rehabilitation (Holloway, 2003), Moshe was taking
advantage of the neuroplasticity of the nervous system almost 60 years ago.
The Feldenkrais Method today
The system Moshe Feldenkrais developed was both sophisticated and effective and has
helped thousands to rehabilitate from both complex and debilitating injuries.
Contemporary advocates include Jill Bolte Taylor (the former Harvard neuroanatomist
who has gained popular international recognition after recovery from severe damage to
the left hemisphere of her brain), Frank R. Wilson (neurologist and medical director of
the Peter F. Ostwald Health Program for Performing Artists at the University of
California School of Medicine) and Dr Norman Doidge (research psychiatrist,
psychoanalyst and author of "The Brain That Changes Itself") who describes Moshe
Feldenkrais as a remarkable man and a genius" (Doidge, 1999).
In her book, "My Stroke of Insight", Bolte Taylor (2008) writes that one of the greatest
challenges to physical recovery she faced after brain surgery was a problem with the
temporal mandibular joint (jaw joint). However, with the use of the Feldenkrais Method,
this recovered quickly. She describes it as a "lifesaver" (personal communication, July
31, 2008).
In his book "The Hand", Wilson (1999) devotes a chapter to the Feldenkrais Method and,
in particular, the work of Feldenkrais practitioner, Anat Baniel. He writes "Before I met
Anat I had already come to appreciate how potent an ally a Feldenkrais practitioner can
be to a neurologist" (p.246).

October, 2008

There is now a growing number of people choosing to train in the Feldenkrais Method,
drawn to it by its effectiveness in their own lives or the lives of their clients. One
example is Ed Muegge (MA in Psychology) who came to the Method almost 20 years
after sustaining an SCI at C5/6. He was so impressed with the benefits that he got from
the Method that he went on to train to become a Feldenkrais practitioner. Another is Rich
McLaughlin (also with an SCI) who is currently seeking funding to do the training.
How is the Method taught
The Feldenkrais Method is taught in two ways: Awareness Through Movement (ATM)
lessons and Functional Integration (FI) lessons.
Functional Integration lessons are
performed one-to-one. The client
usually lies on a low padded table
or bed. With precise handling or
instructions, the practitioner helps
the client to feel new ways of
organising their movement. When
loss of movement is significant
(such as with SCI) it is a good
idea to have one-to-one sessions.
Awareness Through Movement
lessons are usually taught in
A Functional Integration lesson
groups. In ATM classes, the
Feldenkrais practitioner verbally guides clients through a sequence of gentle movements.
Many of these movements are based on functional activities such as reaching and looking
behind yourself. Attention is drawn to the process of each movement so clients can learn
to observe and feel how they do the movement, what parts could be more involved and
how they may be hindering the movement.
The learning experience
The learning is a relaxing and rewarding experience. People usually notice they feel
better immediately after a session. Some of this new learning is lost and then recreated in
a later session. Other aspects are retained and may often be really obvious to you in the
next hour or so. Then they become an unconscious part of your repertoire and you may
no longer notice them. Over the long term people notice gradual and cumulative
improvements.
Although sometimes change can be dramatic, generally it is slow with more severe or
long-term injuries. However, whether you have been diagnosed with a high level
complete injury or a low level incomplete injury you may be able to learn to increase
your feeling of comfort and stability and improve the way you move.
Practical examples
To view examples of Feldenkrais in practice, search for Feldenkrais on
www.youtube.com.

October, 2008

3. Research into the Feldenkrais Method

The Feldenkrais technique is likely to lead not only to musculoskeletal improvements
but also to improvements for the cardiorespiratory systems and importantly to improved
mood states and to an improved self-esteem and sense of personal control in having
access to a procedure one can undertake oneself.
David Garlick, BSc(MED), MB, BS, PhD, Senior Lecturer, School of Physiology and
Pharmacology, University of New South Wales (Australian Feldenkrais Guild (NSW Division),
1994)

Introduction
Research has provided evidence of benefits with chronic illness, disability and the ablebodied. Some of those benefits are listed below.
Multiple Sclerosis
improved ease of movement (Stephens et al, 1999)
improved stability (Stephens, DuShuttle, Hatcher, Shmunes & Slaninka, 2001; Batson
& Deutsch, 2005)
improved balance confidence (Stephens et al, 2001)
improved well-being (Stephens et al, 1999)
decreased stress (Johnson, Frederick, Kaufman & Mountjoy, 1999).
Stroke
improved stability (Batson & Deutsch, 2005)
improved mobility (ibid.)
greater recruitment of the affected part of the motor cortex (Nair, Fuchs, Burkart,
Steinberg & Kelso, 2005).
Chronic pain
decreased pain (Bearman & Shafarman, 1999; Lundblad, Elert & Gerdle, B, 1999;
Malmgren-Olsson & Branholm, 2002)
improved functioning (Bearman & Shafarman,1999; Phipps et al, 1997 as cited in
Stephens, 2000)
improved coordination (Schon-Ohlsson, Willen & Johnels, 2005)
improved body awareness (Dean & Yuen, 1998, as cited in Stephens, 2000)
reduced fatigue (ibid.)
improved sleep (ibid.)
reduced psychological distress (Malmgren-Olsson & Branholm, 2002)
improved quality of life (ibid.)
improved self-efficacy (Malmgren-Olsson & Branholm, 2002)
improved health locus of control (Dennenberg & Reeves, 1995, as cited in Stephens,
2000)
improved self image (Malmgren-Olsson & Branholm, 2002)
reduced costs (Bearman & Shafarman, 1999)
improved posture (Lake, 1992).

October, 2008

Elderly
improved coordination (Stephens, Pendergast, Roller & Weiskittel, 2005)
improved vitality (ibid.)
improved mental health (ibid.)
improved balance (Hall et al, 1999, as cited in Stephens, 2007)
increased gait speed (Connors, Galea & Said, 2007)
improved balance confidence (Connors et al, 2007).
Able-bodied
improved stability (Buchanan & Vardaxis, 2000)
increased range of movement (Ruth, & Kegerreis, 1992; Stephens, Davidson, Derosa,
Kriz & Saltzman, 2006)
increased ease of movement (Ruth & Kegerreis, 1992)
improved reach (Dunn & Rogers, 2000)
reduced anxiety (Kolt & McConville, 2000; Kerr, Kotynia, & Kolt, 2002)
improved mood (Netz & Lidor, 2003)
improved breathing (Saraswati, 1989, as cited in Stephens, 2000)
improved body image (Elgelid, 2005; Dunn & Rogers, 2000).
More information
Information on research and case studies can be found in the folder labelled "Feldenkrais
Research and Case Studies" in the Alan Bean Centre library (NZ).

October, 2008

10

4. SCI Rehabilitation Programmes and Case Studies

One of the defects of spinal cord injury not often discussed or appreciated is loss of
proprioception. As a C5/6 quadriplegic, I have no sense of where my lower limbs are
placed and a minimal sense of the positioning of my upper extremitiesI expect that loss
of proprioception is an important aspect of motor function and its return after spinal cord
injury is an important aspect of regaining function.
Robert Schimke, Professor Emeritus of Biology, Stanford University (Committee on Spinal
Cord Injury et al, 2005, p.134)

Introduction
Although there has been no systematic research with SCI and Feldenkrais, there is a
growing body of evidence of its effectiveness. A number of rehabilitation providers have
been using it as part of the ir practice and some practitioners have provided documented
case studies of their work. What is interesting about the case studies is that many people
report improvements over 10 (and even 25) years after their injury when it is normally
presumed that SCI stabilises within two to five years of the injury.
Rehabilitation programmes
Nottwil Paraplegic Centre in Switzerland (one of the largest spinal hospitals in the world)
has been using Feldenkrais for over 10 years. According to Dr Markus Meyerhans, Head
of Psychology, it is used there to enhance body image, coordination, breathing and
stability and to reduce pain. Many clients report on the importance of the Method in their
rehabilitation and appreciate its sensitivity. Physiotherapists also notice that clients are
better able to coordinate function after a Feldenkrais lesson (personal communication,
February 2, 2007).
The Shake-A-Leg programme in Rhode Island, founded in 1982, is a holistic
rehabilitation programme designed mainly for people with SCI and related conditions.
The programme was initiated by Harry Horgan, a young man with a T5/T6 injury. Harry
offered a range of approaches that he found helpful. Among them was Feldenkrais so
Carl Ginsburg (PhD, Feldenkrais practitioner and former chemistry teacher) was invited
to join the programme. Carl has documented some of the changes that took place for
participants of the Shake-A-Leg programme (Ginsburg, 1986). For example, Providencia
recovered leg movements after 16 years in a wheelchair. Jack, who came to the
programme with strong spasms in his legs and limited use of his hands, recovered nearnormal use of his right hand and significantly reduced his spasms.
It is also part of the inpatient programme at the Mount Sinai Rehabilitation Centre (n.d.).
Case studies and documented sessions
In 1980, Carl Ginsburg published two case studies on his work with long-term paraplegia.
The first was with a woman with a complete T11/12 injury, 10 years after her injury.
With a combination of Biofeedback, Rolfing and Feldenkrais she had a reduction in
painful spasm and a return of sensation and movement in her legs and she learned to
stand. The second was with a woman with a T10 injury, also 10 years after her injury.

October, 2008

11

With a combination of Acupuncture and Feldenkrais she regained sensation, stability and
movement in her legs (Ginsburg, 1980).
Helga Bost (Feldenkrais practitioner and
teacher) documents a case study that
takes place over five years beginning in
August 1991 with a pause in 1995/96.
During this time she worked with
Michael, with T12/L1 incomplete
paraplegia, almost 2 years after his
accident. To begin with he could walk
with two braces and two crutches but he
couldn't sense where his legs were. In
the second session, he felt more
connected to his lower spine and pelvis.
In the sixth session, he could feel where
Compressing the legs gives Michael an image of his
his right leg was. From when they
legs - and the pain diminishes
started working together, Michael
repeatedly noticed "a sudden leap in muscular coordination". At the end of the case
study, Michael is walking without crutches. He reports walking back and forth across
black ice with a bucket of hot water to remove ice from his windscreen, without feeling
unsafe (Bost, 1997).
Helga and Michael have developed a film based on their work. The film includes an
interview with Carl Ginsburg and helps to provide insights into the way the nervous
system processes information. Helga
describes the learning process on the
cover of the film - Firstly, it begins
with sensing oneself, continues with
learning to become aware of one s
movement which leads onto learning to
control the intended movement, like in
Michael's learning process." See her
website www.helgabost.de. The DVD
is available in the Alan Bean Centre
library (NZ).
Irene Lober, who translated the film into
English, is a Feldenkrais practitioner
Movement of the leg is integrated with the spine
with an SCI. Before becoming a
Feldenkrais practitioner, she learned to walk and documented her learning process in a
book "Walking in ones own feet: Paraplegia - a somatic investigation." This was first
presented as a Masters Thesis at Antioch University, San Francisco. The German version
is entitled "Auf eigenen Fen gehen - Somato-psychologische Erfahrungen einer
ehemals Querschnittsgelhmten", Der grne Zweig, 131 (ISBN 3-925817-31-X) (Helga
Bost, personal communication, August 16, 2008).

October, 2008

12

Foster (2004) reports what she describes as a "miraculous demonstration". She observed
Gaby Yaron, a Feldenkrais practitioner, working for almost an hour with a woman with
paraplegia. Towards the end of the hour the woman, coaxed by Gaby, stood and took a
few tentative steps.
A Nottwil case study describes the experience of Lisa, a keen sportswoman, who had an
injury at T8 (ASIA A). A significant issue for her was feelings of instability ("fear of
falling"). She found that she continually toppled over when sitting and sometimes
exhausted herself performing tasks such as dressing and doing wheelchair transfers. It
also limited her ability to participate in physical activity. Interventions included
counselling, swimming, fitness training, circuit training, hippotherapy, body balance
training, repetitive training of transfers, wheelchair training, sports activities, drugs and
Feldenkrais. Of all the interventions, she felt Feldenkrais to be the most helpful with her
instability, which she felt had almost gone (Swiss Paraplegic Research, 2007).
There is documented evidence of Moshe Feldenkrais doing functional integration
sessions with people with SCI. Ginsburg (1980) reported observing Moshe working with
a woman with paralysis in 1977. At the beginning of the session the woman did not
know where her body was below the injury. During the session Moshe restored her body
image and at the end of the session she was able to move her leg. In an article by Fox
(1978) Moshe reports on a session where he restored muscle tone in the foot of a man
who had been paralysed from the neck down for 32 years.
The International Feldenkrais Federation (IFF)
North American Video library holds a video
recording (recorded in 1980) showing Moshe
completing 11 sessions over six weeks with
Ronald who, 16 years before, had sustained an
SCI after a fracture at T4. Spasticity of the legs
was a particular issue for this Ronald. During
these sessions Ronald learnt to improve his ability
to rotate to look left and right, to organise his legs
more effectively when rolling, to use his pelvis in
flexing and extending, to engage his stomach
muscles, to begin to abduct and adduct his right
leg, to stabilise his legs when prone and to
improve the connection between his neck and
Anthea finds that being able to use
spine. The spasticity in his legs was reduced,
her pelvis helps with her horseriding
proprioception was improved and functional
improvements included an improved ability to do wheelchair transfers, an improved
ability to come to stand with the standing frame, and an improved ability to stabilise
himself in sitting meant he was more able to put his shoes on and off without
overbalancing.

October, 2008

13

About 2 years ago I worked with three

people diagnosed as ASIA A (complete
SCI), two to five months after their injury.
This was my first experience of working
with SCI. All three reported
improvements in proprioception in
virtually every session. At least two of the
people I worked with said they had had no
change since the accident but noticed
immediate improvement in proprioception
from the first session. By the second week
(after four to six sessions) they had
movement below the lesion. One (for
Andrew learns to engage his pelvis 24 years after
injuring his spinal cord
whom pain was a major issue) reported
reductions in pain after the sessions. The
other (for whom spasm was a major issue) reported permanent reductions in spasm.
Diagnosed T10/11 complete, she had a return of proprioception to her legs and she was
able to feel and engage her pelvis by the fourth session. As a lover of horse riding, she
has found the ability to use her pelvis valuable to her riding. The third (diagnosed C4/5
complete) noticed improved coordination from the first session. He too gained
movement below the lesion and he reported reductions in both pain and spasms after
sessions. He reported that he was able to feel where his whole body was (although
sometimes he got a bit confused with his legs), could bring his hand to his face and his
hand and arm function was good enough to turn pages.
It appears that sometimes those diagnosed as complete do develop movement below the
lesion in the first two to five years. More pertinent then is my work with people at least
12 years after their accident. Since working with the
initial three, I have been working with two people with
incomplete SCI (12 and 24 years after injury) and one
person with complete SCI (12 years after injury). All
three have reported an improvement in proprioception and
stability and ease of movement to varying degrees. For
example one client who broke his neck 24 years
previously noticed a reduction in spasms and is now able
to engage his pelvis (of which he was previously
unaware). This enables him to stand without spasm,
makes activities such as rolling over in bed easier and
reduces the amount of strain on his shoulders. Other
benefits reported by people from this group of six have
included improved posture, improved ease of movement,
13 years after his accident
Hamish finds a new awareness
an improved feeling of confidence, improved mood,
which he feels helps his stability
improved breathing, increased relaxation, and generally
and well-being
feeling better.

October, 2008

14

October, 2008

15

5. SCI Endorsements and Testimonials

Feldenkrais is the most sophisticated and effective method I have seen for the
prevention and reversal of deterioration of function.
Margaret Mead, PhD, Anthropologist (Wildman, 2000)
Introduction
This section includes endorsements and testimonials from people with SCI. Again what
is interesting is that people are reporting improvements years after their injury.
Endorsements from people with SCI
Gary Karp's book "Life on Wheels" provides advice on the many issues one faces when
in a wheelchair, and in particular with SCI. Gary (guest speaker, NZ Spinal Conference
(2000); NSCIA Spinal Cord Injury Hall of Fame Inductee as Disability Educator (2007))
injured his spinal cord in 1973. His book offers information on a wide range of areas
including managing your rehabilitation, sex, wheelchair selection, identity issues and
staying healthy. In his book, Gary speaks highly of the Feldenkrais Method saying that it
has a lot to offer people with disabilities. It enables them to learn to use their bodies more
efficiently and to make the most of their strength and functioning (Karp, 1999). For
more information on Gary, see www.garykarpspeaks.com.
Molly Hale broke her neck in 1995. To begin with she was given the prognosis that there
would be no movement below her
shoulders. The primary practice of
Aquatic Therapy has been enhanced by
the inclusion of Aikido, Feldenkrais,
Continuum, Hippotherapy, Meditation
and breath work. Molly has made
significant improvement and states that
these practices support her ability to
"redirect my energy away from the
prognosis and work with my inner
knowing". Seven years of continual
focus enabled her to get her legs
underneath her and she is now able to
walk independently in water and on land Molly teaches Aikido to kids
with balance support. Thirteen years
post injury, she continues to improve (Personal communication, September 6, 2008).
Molly became the subject of a documentary film "Moment by Moment: the Healing
Journey of Molly Hale" which tells the story of the first seven years of her journey. She
has also set up a website and not-for-profit organisation to inspire and provide resource
information for others with disabilities, their families, friends and providers. She is
developing a DVD called "Pathways to Wellness" which is an educational DVD
comb ining "Moment by Moment: the Healing Journey of Molly Hale" with a guide to
healing practices and other pertinent information used by Molly in her ongoing

October, 2008

16

rehabilitation. More information can be found on her

website, www.abilityproduction.org. A DVD of "Moment
by Moment: the Healing Journey of Molly Hale" is available
in the Alan Bean Centre library (NZ).

Molly walking in the water in

2006

Walk with Me is an autobiography of Kevin Hitchcock,

Director of News at Channel Ten, Sydney. Kevin, who
broke his neck at C3/4, was told he would never get feeling
below the neck or walk again. Despite this, he ended up
walking and restoring arm and hand function. He attributes
much of this to a programme devised by Des Donovan, a
chiropractor and osteopath. Des, who has had significant
exposure to the Feldenkrais Method, claims he bases the
programme on Feldenkrais principles (Hitchcock, 1998).

SCI Testimonials
I was amazed at how much improved physical function I acquired after having completed
the Feldenkrais training program, given that I was over 20 years post spinal cord injury at
C5 &6 with partial paralysis in all extremities.
Edward Muegge, MA(Counselling Psychology), Feldenkrais practitioner

I came to the Feldenkrais Method (in 1997) nine years after my spinal cord injury. The
Method has helped me see the intricacies of movement. Each session reveals new
possibilities that can overcome a lifetime of conditioning. It has been and continues to be
valuable to my ease in movement.
Rich McLaughlin, BA(Archaeology and Religious Studies), [email protected] Rich is
currently seeking funding to train in the method. Any information on available funding
would be much appreciated.
It never ceases to amaze me ho w after one session with Cindy, I notice dramatic
improvements in body awareness, often in places where I have little sensation or
movement. Feldenkrais should be a mandatory part of the rehabilitation process I believe.
Claire Freeman, BDesHons, PG Dip Re hab, PG Dip Mk; graphic designer, NZ Spinal
Trust, injured 1995

The Feldenkrais method taught me to refine my sensory awareness by combining

visualization with intelligent moving, leading to more mobility. Becoming a Feldenkrais
practitioner was then a four-year physical and mental therapy and teaching how to
maintain, improve, and refine my balance and awareness of myself as a whole.
Irene Lober, MA, Feldenkrais practitioner, incomplete paraplegia after lesion L 3/4

You feel so relaxed, and at the same time, you're doing something really good for
yourself in a physical sense.
Andrew Hall, BAgCom, CEO NZ Spinal Trust, injured 1983, www.spinaltrust.org.nz.

October, 2008

17

Feldenkrais has made a huge difference for me. I did Feldenkrais work with a physical
therapist after having developed bilateral elbow and wrist tendinitis from computer work.
The symptoms became chronic enough for me to stop my work as a computer graphics
designer and manager in 1992.
To have gained a full sense of how my body moved and where my power was made a
huge difference. Three examples:
Given my T12-L1 level, I have full use of my hips. When I do transfers into and out of
the wheelchair, I now use my trunk and hips while rotating my body, rather than doing
it mostly from the arms and shoulders.
When I open a door, likewise, I don't just use my triceps to pull with my arm, but
rotate my trunk.
When I push my chair, I involve my trunk much more.
After doing the Feldenkrais work in 1993, people noticed the difference in how I was
using my body as I pushed. I share your view that it has much to offer people with SCI.
Gary Karp, BArch; Guest Speaker, NZ Spinal Conference (2000); Speaker; Author;
Trainer, injured 1973

In the beginning, I was surprised that unexpected movements were possible again.
Important for me, above all, was to learn to feel myself once more, although I have a
complete loss of sensation. I could feel once more my feet and legs through pressure,
movement, warmth and the orientation of my legs in space.
In the session, I could feel myself whole again, as Helga gave me an impulse for
organisation to stand, compressing from the foot to the head. And because of that, the
pain diminished. (Translated from German)
Michael Willems, Marpingen, Germany

My first session with Cindy was

incredible - I experienced tingling on
the soles of my feet and I could sense
a circling motion as well. Previously
my partner had massaged my feet
and I had not been aware of any
sensation at all. This continued
throughout our sessions and by the
time it came for me to go home to
Wellington I was able to have a sense
of where my legs were and constant
tingling in my feet. I am still
experiencing this nowCindy also
Anthea (with a diagnosis of T10/11 ASIA A) stabilises
taught me how to roll onto my side
her leg, September 2008
with ease and to use my body more
economicallyI am very grateful to Cindy for introducing Feldenkrais to me.
Anthea Gunner, 28/6/06; PA to South Island Manager, CourierPost; initial diagnosis
T10/11 ASIA A

October, 2008

18

I had experience with Feldenkrais prior to rolling my car and sustaining the C5-6 spinal
cord injury. I was able to call upon its basic premise, that of bringing awareness to the
parts of the body where the energies are blocked or stagnant, feeling from the inside-out
and the outside- in.
From the beginning, even though I
was paralyzed from the shoulders
down, I could feel the difference in
my right and left sides energetically.
Feldenkrais work assisted my bodys
cellular knowing, allowing what was
ordered in my left side to inform my
right side. The consistent patterning
practice of Feldenkrais, whether the
movement was a visualization or
actual hands on work with a
practitioner, enabled my body to keep
reclaiming more of itself.

Molly getting ready to drive 2007

Molly Hale, BS(Psychology); Keynote Speaker, Endless Possibilities Conference, G.F.

Strong Rehab Hospital, Vancouver, 2005; Aikido 3rd degree black belt; Olympic torch
bearer, 2002; injured 1995

I have being using Feldenkrais for almost a year now and as a result have a new
awareness of my body which I feel not only benefits my wellbeing but also helps with my
posture and balance.
Hamish Ramsden, BAgCom; company administrator; Spinal Network News Editorial
Team Member; C5/6 tetraplegia; injured 1994

I really enjoy working with Cindy and her ideas make a lot of sense to meI found that
over the course of our sessions I noticed improvements in awareness and sensation
I have adopted Cindys techniques into my daily routine and believe as a result they
relieve my pain and spasm, keep my body supple, and increase the potential of recovering
sensation so much more than if I was to neglect these techniques.
I totally recommend the ideas and techniques that Cindy offers.
Johnny Bourke, Psychology student, Massey University; Spinal Network News Editorial
Team Member; initial diagnosis - C4/5 ASIA A

October, 2008

19

6. Some Feldenkrais Principles in Practice

The Feldenkrais Method "is not just pushing muscles around, but changing things in the
brain itself so that the patient can gradually adjust his whole muscular dysfunction to
what we call a normal image Feldenkrais transmits the image, and you organise your
brain to meet it".
Professor Karl Pribram, MD, PhD, Neuroscientist, Stanford University, Nobel Prize
nominee (Fox,1978, p.5)
Introduction
This section describes a few of the principles of the Method in order to give you a feel for
what the Method is about. It by no means covers the complexities of the Method.
A number of authors describe the principles and the science underlying the Method in
more detail and from a variety of perspectives. For example, Yochanan Rywerant (PhD,
Feldenkrais trainer and former physics teacher) outlines at least 47 of the "principles" or
"working concepts" in his book
"Acquiring the Feldenkrais Method"
(Rywerant, 2000). In his book
"Corollary discharge: The forgotten
link" (Rywerant, 2008) explains how
the Method addresses the issue of
corollary discharge proposed by
neuroscientist Professor Hans Lukas
Teuber. Yochanan Rywerant has also
produced a DVD demonstrating his
work with a man who had had a stroke.
The DVD is available in the Alan Bean
Centre library (NZ). Whilst it is useful
to have an intellectual understanding of the Method, many believe that the best way to
appreciate its effectiveness is to experience it.
Focus on function
A key component of the Method is focusing on function. Each function requires a
complex array of actions, which we each perform differently. Take for example, the
function of eating a bowl of porridge (or ice cream if you prefer). One component of
eating ice cream is the action of bringing the spoon to the mouth. One way of performing
this component is described below.
Bringing the spoon to the mouth involves sliding the shoulder blade over the ribs, which
occurs at the same time as the humerus (or upper arm) supinates (or rolls backward), the
elbow bends and the forearm supinates. Whilst the shoulder blade slide downwards, the
collarbone rolls upwards which requires an articulation of the tip of the shoulder. An
opening of the chest supports the movement. At the same time there are adjustments in
the eyes, the head, the neck and the mouth to track the food and enable entry to the
mouth. There are also simultaneous adjustments in the trunk to prevent one tipping over

October, 2008

20

as the changing position of the arm shifts the centre of balance. All these actions are
sequenced in a timely manner to enable coordination of this component of eating ice
cream.
If the amount of learning required to perform this action sounds overwhelming, take
heart. Many of the components of bringing the spoon to the mouth are also involved in
other functions such as brushing your hair, using a computer or operating a wheelchair
(power or manual). The task of the practitioner is to facilitate your learning of these
functions.
Introducing new movement options
Generally after SCI, when the condition has stabilised, people move in the same way,
from thereon in, without knowing that they have other options. For example, they may
not be aware that they have the capability of sliding the shoulder blade down whilst the
collarbone rolls up, thus enabling the upper arm to supinate. The Feldenkrais practitioner
introduces new possibilities to the client.
In time these new possibilities become
part of the client's repertoire.
Often I find that as a new movement
becomes part of the client's repertoire,
proprioception and kinaesthesia expand.
For example, teaching a client to
articulate the shoulder and roll the upper
arm, can lead to increased awareness of
the shoulder, elbow, forearm and hand.
Teaching a client to move the pelvis can
lead to increased awareness of the legs.
Modifying the image of movement
Often (in the absence of SCI) an inability to move is perceived as a structural issue (at the
site of the joint or muscle) over which one has no voluntary control. For example the
inability to move the leg in relation to the pelvis may be thought to be due to stiffness in
the hip joint or tightness in the hamstrings. Attempts to remedy this include stretching or
using various forms of bodywork to release muscles or manipulate joints. This does not
address the fact that the tightness or stiffness is a consequence of an inaccurate image of
how to perform movements. Our actions do not match our intentions if our self- image
and image of the action is inaccurate. By changing our self- image and the way we move,
we reduce the tightness in the muscle. A study assessing the ability of able-bodied
participants to lengthen the hamstring muscles using Feldenkrais found Feldenkrais to be
significantly more effective than stretching (Stephens et al, 2006).
Modifying habitual responses
In the presence of SCI, the inability to move is frequently perceived as a consequence of
messages not getting through the damaged spinal cord. This may not always be the case.
The inability to move may be a consequence of the way in which one is attempting the
movements. For example, every time you try and move using the agonist muscle, the

October, 2008

21

antagonist muscle may be activated simultaneously, thus restricting the movement of the
joint. This may be a consequence of how the brain is processing information. The cocontractions of agonist and antagonist muscles are a habitual response. Often this
response is initially triggered as a result of injury or disruption to the central nervous
system (e.g. pain, SCI, stroke) and, with repeated attempts to perform the movement,
becomes habitual.
Common ways of trying to overcome co-contractions of agonist and antagonist muscles
is to apply more effort, i.e. work the agonist muscle harder. This causes the antagonist
muscle to work harder in response thus limiting any gains in movement.
The Feldenkrais practitioner has a number of ways of facilitating the clients ability to
modify the ir habitual response. For example, they may change the client s orientation in
space and teach them to move the hip joint in a different way. One way is to move the
trunk against the leg, rather than the leg against the trunk. Thus we have "tricked the
brain", the habitual response is not triggered and the hip joint is no longer so "stiff".
Enhancing kinaesthetic awareness
A key feature of the Method is enhancing awareness of how you move. As Moshe
Feldenkrais said "How can you change what you're doing if you don't know what you're
doing?"
When we lose the ability to perform a function such as eating a bowl of ice cream, we
often end up contracting muscles that, rather than supporting the function, interfere with
it. Clients are encouraged to pay close attention to the kinaesthetic experience of how
they move. With the help of the practitioner, they can discover how they interfere with
movement.
For example, one of the ways that
people tend to interfere with the
sliding of the shoulder blade over the
ribs is to contract the muscles around
the shoulder blade, thus inhibiting
the movement of the shoulder blade.
Another way that people interfere
with the function of eating ice cream
is by co-contracting muscles around
the chest which inhibits the
movement of the shoulder. One of
the roles of the Feldenkrais practitioner is to help the client become more aware of how
they are interfering with the function.
In order to know that one is inhibiting the sliding of the shoulder blade, one may first
need to know or feel the position of the shoulder blade and how it moves. Feldenkrais
practitioners spend many years learning how to touch and move their clients so that
proprioception and kinaesthesia are heightened.

October, 2008

22

Frequently as the proprioceptive and kinaesthetic experience increases, clients experience

a decrease in spasm. For example, I was working for the first time with a woman who
had continuous spasms in both legs. She told me that this happened night and day and
kept her awake at night. She said she had no sense of where her legs were and could not
feel them being touched. Within a minute of my working with her right leg she said the
sensation in her right leg began to return. At the same time, the spasms in her right leg
stopped. In the next session, we worked in the same way with her left leg and the spasms
in her left leg reduced. Later, she told me the spasms never returned to their previous
level.
Frequently the reporting of proprioception and kinaesthesia is the beginning of a process
that eventually culminates in coordinated movement and improved motor functioning.
Engaging the whole body
When the large muscles of the trunk are
used well, it becomes easier to control
the limbs. Trying to move the limbs
when there are massive co-contractions
in the trunk (which is usual with
paralysis) is difficult, if not impossible.
Bringing the hand to the mouth, for
example, does not involve just the
movement of the shoulder and arms. It
also involves adjustments in the trunk
that support the movement of the
shoulder. In addition, how you move
the head and eyes affects the control of
the trunk and limbs. In the Feldenkrais Method, much of the focus is on learning to move
(or at least being aware of) the trunk, head and eyes so that they support the use of the
limbs.
For some, working with the whole body might seem counterintuitive with SCI. However,
my observations and client feedback suggest that working with the whole body is
valuable regardless of the diagnosis (complete or incomplete) or the number of years
since the accident. For some this may mean an increase in proprioception and stability.
For others, this can mean learning to use parts of the body (such as the pelvis) that they
have not previously been able to use. This leads to increased ease of movement and less
overwork of the shoulders. Even decades after the injury, some people are capable of
learning to use parts of themselves that they could not previously use.
Reducing external stimuli
In order to enhance learning, we reduce stimulation to the nervous system that may
distract the client. This means ensuring that the client is relaxed and able to focus. For
this reason many of the lessons are done with the client lying down. This reduces the
effect of gravity, making it easier for the client to learn new skills. Once the new skill is
learned, we can then introduce gravity. The client can come to sitting or standing and try
the new skills in this orientation.

October, 2008

23

Ease and efficiency

The practitioner will only move the client (or encourage them to move) within their
comfort zone even if that means encouraging them to work with their imagination only.
Forcing, pushing through pain or initiating spasm to move is not encouraged. Using
force stimulates the sympathetic nervous system and causes co-contraction of agonist and
antagonist muscles. In other words, working hard causes a stress reaction which makes it
harder to move. This interferes with our ability to learn.
Take the example of sliding the shoulder blade across the ribs. If the practitioner were to
try and pull or force the shoulder blade across the ribs, the immediate reaction in the
client's neuromuscular system would be resistance. In
fact, rather than the shoulder blade sliding further, the
contractions that inhibit the movement of the shoulder
blade would become stronger and may lead to spasm.
Clients learn to recognise comfort by developing an
internal sense of what feels good. The practitioner can
assist them in recognizing when they are pushing too
hard. Evidence of pushing, for example, includes
stopping breathing, clenching the jaw or hardening the
eyes. As they learn to move with more ease and
efficiency, strength and flexibility are significantly
increased in a way that improves functioning in
everyday life.
Process orientation
In order to facilitate learning, clients are encouraged to be process oriented and pay
attention to the quality of their movement. For example, observing how you move, as
you attempt new movements, can be enough to bring about improved movement. As
long as you stay process oriented, you are always learning. As soon as you become goal
oriented and try to get it right you begin to exert effort which interferes with your
learning.
Responsive to individual needs
Feldenkrais is not prescriptive but is responsive to the individual needs of the client.
Each of us has our own way of moving (or not moving). The practitioner explores with
the client and works to develop a course of learning that will meet that clients needs,
working at a pace that is appropriate for that client.
For example, when I work with a client, I am continually noticing how they respond to
what I'm doing and adjusting my behaviour in response to this. Is this pressure too much,
too little? Is this trajectory a little off? Does their breathing improve? Are they easier to
move when I bring their attention to their pelvis? How do they feel? How do I feel when
I move them in this way? Am I noticing resistance? Am I asking them to do something
that is too challenging for them at this point in time?

October, 2008

24

This quality of attention produces results. Often, I have heard clients make comments
such as "when other people touch my foot it spasms, but when you touch it I can feel it"
or "when other people move my leg it spasms, but when you move it I can feel it
moving".
Pleasure
Feldenkrais lessons are in themselves rewarding and a key principle of the Method is a
focus on pleasure. When movement has become a source of pain, involves a lot of effort
or is impossible, it is a relief to once again feel that movement can be pleasurable and
easy.

October, 2008

25

7. Feldenkrais Practitioners and Resources

Training in the method is intensive, active and inspiringIn addition to the selfexploration and development crucial to the learning process, practitioners in training must
gain considerable experience developing kinesthetic and tactile skillsStudents learn the
theoretical principles of several disciplines, including biomechanics, the evolution of
human movement and communication skills.
Frank Wildman, PhD, Feldenkrais trainer (Wildman,1999, p.36)
Practitioner training
Feldenkrais practitioners complete a professional training programme over four years.
During this time, trainees learn to develop a deep understanding of movement and its
formation, to become astute observers of movement in others and to teach others to
enhance their awareness and movement skills. Certified Feldenkrais practitioners are
required to meet continuing education requirements to maintain certification.
Contacting practitioners
The FELDENKRAIS Guild website (www.feldenkrais.org.nz) gives names of
practitioners and their contact details throughout New Zealand.
For countries outside New Zealand, check the International Feldenkrais Federation (IFF)
website www.feldenkrais-method.org.
The New Zealand FELDENKRAIS Guild Inc
The New Zealand FELDENKRAIS Guild guides the professional development, quality
and integrity of the FELDENKRAIS Method in New Zealand. It acts as the regulatory
body governing the ethics and standards of practice. The Guild is a member of the IFF
which is represented in 17 countries. FELDENKRAIS, FUNCTIONAL
INTEGRATION and AWARENESS THROUGH MOVEMENT are registered
Service Marks of the New Zealand FELDENKRAIS Guild Inc.
Funding (NZ)
There are some physiotherapists that practice the FELDENKRAIS Method. If you use
a FELDENKRAIS practitioner who is also a physiotherapist, you should be able to get
your sessions funded by ACC.
You may also be able to get funding for some sessions through local funding
organisations such as the Canterbury Community Trust.
The Feldenkrais library (NZ)
The Feldenkrais library www.feldenkraislibrary.org.nz contains books on the Feldenkrais
Method and tapes and CDs with Feldenkrais lessons. Contact Caroline Maze (ph. 03
3517375).

October, 2008

26

About the Author

Background
I became a certified FELDENKRAIS practitioner in 2003. Since then I have run
Awareness through Movement classes, both privately and for the Christchurch City
Council Pioneer Leisure Centre. I have been working part-time with people with SCI
since the end of 2005. I have a Masters Degree (with Distinction) in Psychology and
have honours level (first class) papers in Education and Psychology including
counselling, education of children with disabilities, clinical psychology and social
psychology. I have worked in a range of fields including movement education, Equal
Employment Opportunities, research, training and facilitation, and mental health.
Publications, presentations and interviews include:
Restoring proprioception, kinaesthesia and co-ordinated movement with the
Feldenkrais Method of sensory motor education. Poster to be presented at the Annual
Scientific Meeting of the Australian & New Zealand Spinal Cord Society, November
2008.
Response to Gregory C. Murphy: Criterion problems in rehabilitation outcome
research (2005). The Australian Journal of Rehabilitation Counselling, vol. 11, no.1.
The assessment of pain beliefs and their role in predicting recovery from repetitive
strain injury (2004). The Australian Journal of Rehabilitation Counselling, vol. 10, no
1 (co-authored with Dr Christine Stephens).
Playing with movement heaps of fun (January, 2002), The Christchurch Press.
The relationship between beliefs about pain and perceptions of recovery in
Occupational Overuse Syndrome (2001), Masters Thesis.
Interview on the FELDENKRAIS Method (2001), Now TV.
Interview on the Move Over OOS programme (which received a New Zealand
Recreational Award) (1998), Future Indicative, National Radio.
I came to the FELDENKRAIS Method as a result of pain and loss of movement and
proprioception. I tried many different techniques - alternative and conventional. I found
that most of what I tried relieved symptoms only, made no difference or made me worse.
FELDENKRAIS was the only intervention that made a long term difference.
Contact details
Feel free to contact me for more information or if you have testimonials, case studies or
research or other information that I can add to the next edition of this booklet.
My contact details are:
Cindy Allison
Phone: 03 3552264 (+64 3 3552264)
E- mail address: [email protected].

October, 2008

27

References
Alexander, M. (n.d.) Mark Alexander argues that the standard approach to strength and
conditioning needs a radical overhaul. Retrieved August 28, 2008, from
http://www.sportsinjurybulletin.com/archive/strength-training- injuries.html
Australian Feldenkrais Guild (New South Wales Division) Incorporated. (1994,
September). Submission from the Australian Feldenkrais Guild (New South
Wales Division) Incorporated to the Health Insurance Companies.
Batson, G., & Deutsch, J.E. (2005). Effects of Feldenkrais Awareness Through
Movement on balance in adults with chronic neurological deficits following
stroke: A preliminary study. Complementary Health Practice Review, 10 (3), 203210. Retrieved August 28, 2008, from http://feldenkrais- method.org/en/node/1704
Bearman, D., & Shafarman, S. (1999). The Feldenkrais Method in the treatment of
chronic pain: A study of efficacy and cost effectiveness. American Journal of
Pain Management, 9(1), 22-27. Retrieved August 28, 2008, from
http://www.iffresearchjournal.org/shafarmaneng.htm
Behrman, A.L., Bowden, M.G., & Nair, P.M. (Oct 2006). Neuroplasticity after spinal
cord injury and training: An emerging paradigm shift in rehabilitation and
walking recovery. Physical Therapy, 86(10), 1406-1425. Retrieved August 28,
2008, from http://www.ptjournalonline.org/cgi/content/full/86/10/1406
Bolte Taylor, J. (2008). My stroke of insight. London: Hodder & Stoughton Ltd.
Bost, H. (1997). Case description: Michael-incomplete paraplegia after a motorbike
accident-A five-year learning process. Retrieved August 28, 2008, from
http://www.helgabost.de/Dokumentation/case_study/case_study.html
Buchanan, P.A., & Vardaxis, V.G. (2000). Effects of Feldenkrais Awareness Through
Movement on balance during standing. Journal of Athletic Training, 35, S-81.
Byl, N. N., & Melnick, M. (1997). The neural consequences of repetition: clinical
implications of a learning hypothesis. Journal of Hand Therapy, 10, 160-174.
Committee on Spinal Cord Injury, Board of Neuroscience and Behavioural Health;
Liverman, C.T.; Altevogt, B.M.; Joy, J.E., & Johnson, R.T. (Eds.).(2005). Spinal
cord injury: Progress, promise, and priorities. USA: National Academies Press.
Connors, K.C., Galea, M.P., & Said, C.M. (2007). Feldenkrais Method balance classes
improve balance confidence and mobility in older adults: a pilot study. Abstract
of the Australian Physiotherapy Conference, Cairns, October, 2007.
Doidge, N. (1999). New hope for aching, creaky yuppie bones. National Post, October 6,
1999.

October, 2008

28

Dunn, P.A., & Rogers, D.K. (2000). Feldenkrais sensory imagery and forward reach.
Perceptual and Motor Skills, 91, 755-757.
Elgelid, H.S. (2005). Feldenkrais and body image. IFF Academy Feldenkrais Research
Journal, 2. Retrieved August 28, 2008, from
http://www.iffresearchjournal.org/elgelid2005.htm
Feldenkrais, M. (1990). Awareness through Movement. Arkana.
Foster, M. (2004). Somatic education, movement therapy, and massage. Massage &
Bodywork. Retrieved August 28, 2008, from
http://www.massageandbodywork.com/Articles/OctNov2004/somatic.html
Fox, C. (1978). The Feldenkrais phenomenon. Retrieved August 28, 2008, from
http://www.feldnet.com/Default.aspx?tabid=85
Ginsburg, C. (1980). On plasticity and paraplegia: Some clinical observations on the
ability to recover from severe injury to the spinal cord. Somatics, Autumn, 34-40.
Ginsburg, C. (1986). The Shake-a-Leg Body Awareness Training Program: Dealing with
spinal injury and recovery in a new setting. Somatics, Spring/Summer, 31-42.
Hitchcock, K. (1998) Walk with Me. Australia: Random House.
Holloway, M. (2003). The mutable brain. Scientific American, September, 59-65.
Isacovic-Cocker, M. (2006). Rehabilitation of walking and psychosocial wellbeing in
people with severe spinal cord injury. PhD Thesis, Victoria University of
Wellington, New Zealand.
Johnson, S.K., Frederick, J., Kaufman, M., & Mount joy, B. (1999). A controlled
investigation of bodywork in multiple sclerosis. The Journal of Alternative and
Complementary Medicine 5(3): 237-43.
Karp, G. (1999) Life on wheels: For the active wheelchair user. USA: O'Reilly &
Associates.
Kerr, G.A., Kotynia, F., & Kolt, G.S. (2002). Feldenkrais Awareness Through Movement
and state anxiety. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 6(2), 102-107.
Kolt, G.S., & McConville, J.C. (2000). The effects of a Feldenkrais Awareness Through
Movement program on state anxiety. Journal of Bodywork and Movement
Therapies, 4(3), 216-220.
Lake, B. (1992) Photoanalysis of standing posture in controls and low back pain: Effects
of kinaesthetic processing (Feldenkrais Method) in posture and gait. In

October, 2008

29

Woollocott M, Horak, F. (eds) Control Mechanisms VII. Eugene, OR: University

of Oregon Press.
Lundblad, I., Elert, J., & Gerdle, B. (1999). Randomized controlled trial of physiotherapy
and Feldenkrais interventions in female workers with neck-shoulder complaints.
Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation, 9(3) September, 179-194.
Malmgren-Olsson, E.B., & Branholm, I.B. (2002). A comparison between three
physiotherapy approaches with regard to health-related factors in patients with
non-specific musculoskeletal disorders. Disability & Rehabilitation, 24(6), 308317.
Nair, D.G., Fuchs, A., Burkart, S., Steinberg, F.L., & Kelso, J.A. (2005) Assessing
recovery in middle cerebral artery stroke using functional MRI. Brain Injury; Dec.
19(13):1165-76.
Netz, Y., & Lidor, R. (2003). Mood alterations in mindful versus aerobic exercise modes.
Journal of Psychology, 137(5), 405-419.
Rosenfeld, A. (1981). Teaching the body to program the brain is Mosh Feldenkrais's
miracle. Smithsonian, Vol. 11, No. 10, January.
Ruth, S., & Kegerreis, S. (1992). Facilitating cervical flexion using a Feldenkrais Method
- Awareness through Movement. Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical
Therapy, 16(1), 25-29.
Rywerant, Y. (2000). Acquiring the Feldenkrais profession. Tel Aviv, Israel: El-Or Ltd.
Rywerant, Y. (2008). Corollary discharge: The forgotten link. USA: Freeperson Press.
Sacks, O. (1990). A Leg to Stand On. New York: Harper Perennial.
Scelsi, R. (2001). Skeletal muscle pathology after spinal cord injury: our 20 year
experience and results on skeletal muscle changes in paraplegics, related to
functional rehabilitation. Basic and Applied Myology, 11(2), 75-85.
Schleip, R. (1994). In Feldenkrais, M. Der Weg zum reifen Selbst, Junfermann Verlag,
Paderborn. (Body and mature behaviour, translated into German by Bringfried
Schrder). Retrieved August 28, 2008, from
http://www.feldnet.com/Default.aspx?tabid=103
Schon-Ohlsson, C., Willen, J., & Johnels, B. (2005). Sensory motor learning in patients
with chronic low back pain - A prospective pilot study using optoelectronic
movement analysis. Spine, 30(17), E509-E516.

October, 2008

30

Schwoebel, J., Friedman, R., Duda, N., & Coslett, H.B. (2001). Pain and the body
schema: Evidence for peripheral effects on mental representations of movement.
Brain, 124, 2098-2104.
Stephens, J. (2000). Feldenkrais method: background, research, and orthopaedic case
studies. Orthopaedic Physical Therapy Clinics of North America, 9(3), 375-394.
Stephens, J. (2007). Future directions for research on the Feldenkrais method. IFF
Academy Feldenkrais Research Journal, 3. Retrieved September 9, 2008, from
http://iffresearchjournal.org/index2007.htm
Stephens, J., Call, S., Evans, K., Glass, M., Gould, C., & Lowe, J. (1999). Responses to
ten Feldenkrais awareness through movement lessons by four women with
multiple sclerosis: improved quality of life. Physical Therapy Case Reports, 2(2),
58-69.
Stephens, J., Davidson, J., Derosa, J., Kriz, M., & Saltzman, N. (2006). Lengthening the
hamstring muscles without stretching using "awareness through movement".
Physical Therapy, 86(12), 1641-1650. Retrieved August 28, 2008, from
http://physicaltherapyjournal.com/cgi/content/full/86/12/1641
Stephens, J., DuShuttle, D., Hatcher, C., Shmunes, J., & Slaninka, C. (2001). Use of
awareness through movement improves balance and balance confidence in people
with multiple sclerosis: a randomized controlled study. Neurology Report, 25(2),
39-49. Retrieved August 28, 2008, from
http://www.psych.utah.edu/feldenkrais/articles.php
Stephens, J., Pendergast, C., Roller, B.A., & Weiskittel, R.S. (2005). Learning to improve
mobility and quality of life in a well elderly population: the benefits of awareness
through movement. IFF Academy Feldenkrais Research Journal, 2. Retrieved
August 28, 2008, from http://iffresearchjournal.org/index2005.htm
Swiss Paraplegic Research (2007) Case study 9: Sport interventions for SCI patients.
Retrieved August 28, 2008, from http://www.icfcasestudies.org/case_studies.php?id=77&cat_id=21&k=8
The Mount Sinai Rehabilitation Center. Inpatient activities. Retrieved September 3, 2008,
from http://www.mssm.edu/clinical_services/reha_techn.htm#cord.
Wildman, F. (1999) Creating intelligent bodies with the Feldenkrais Method. Massage
and Bodywork. Dec/Jan, 30-35.
Wildman, F. (2000) Feldenkrais: The busy person's guide to easier movement. Berkeley,
California :The Intelligent Body Press.
Wilson, F.R. (1999) The hand: How its use shapes the brain, language, and human
culture. New York: Vintage Books, a division of Random House, Inc.

October, 2008

31