Because of Independence Day (U.S.) this week, there will be no Asthma Weekly News article on Friday.

What exactly is the Papworth method?
Where can I learn how to do it?

These questions pepper respiratory message boards, including this site's, in the wake of recent UK research showing the Papworth breathing method improved asthma symptoms in one-third of study participants. Essentially a deep breathing and relaxation technique first developed in the 1960's at Papworth Hospital in England, the method encourages calm, deep breathing through the nose and from the diaphragm. During Papworth sessions, patients also learn how to apply good breathing technique to their daily lives.

While the technique appears beneficial to asthma sufferers, like all complementary therapy it should supplement a medical maintenance regimen rather than replace it. While patients in the study who participated in Papworth sessions reported improved breathing and stress level, actual lung function did not also show an increase.

The implication of these results is that the Papworth system can help relieve asthma symptoms but does not treat the underlying inflammatory/immune component. Practicing the Papworth method will not cure asthma, but for some asthmatics it could mean reduced use of emergency inhalers.

Unfortunately, I cannot point you to a tutorial website that teaches the technique. I've searched pretty heavily over the last day or two, and I can't find a book or DVD to purchase, either. The best information I have indicates that learning the Papworth method requires several sessions with a practitioner. I'd recommend calling your primary care doctor and local hospitals or physical therapy clinics to find out more. That's what I’m going to do.


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"Smile, breathe and go slowly." -Thich Nhat Hanh



This article is not written by a medical professional, and information on this page should never be substituted for your physcian's advice. If you have any questions about your asthma and/or allergies, you should always contact your physician first.