The Brisbane trial is the best western study of the
Buteyko Method. The trial results indicated asthmatics using the Buteyko Method reduced use of beta-agonists (relievers) by 96% and steroids by 49%.
The trials were sponsored by the Australian Association of Asthma Foundations and lead by Professor Charles Mitchell, and Doctor Simon Bowler
In the study, 19 randomly selected asthmatics learned the Buteyko Method and 20 other asthmatics learned standard physiotherapy exercises. The group taught the Buteyko Method significantly reduced their beta-agonist intake, improved control over their asthma, and improved quality of life.
Bronchodilator Reduction
At the 12 week mark the group practising Buteyko exercises had reduced their
bronchodilator (reliever) medication by 96%, whereas the control group had no
significant improvement.
Inhaled Steroid Reduction
The Buteyko Breathing Method allowed asthmatics to reduce their
anti-inflammatory medication by 49% over three months, whereas the control
group had no reduction.
Breathing Rates
The initial clinical testing demonstrated that all participants at rest hyperventilated. The Buteyko techniques teach asthma sufferers to reduce their breathing to normal levels.
Buteyko subjects reduced their hyperventilation by an average of 31% in their minute volume at twelve weeks. There was no significant change in the control group.
There was a correlation between the relative reduction in need for bronchodilators and the proportionate reduction in minute volumes in Buteyko subjects; that is, the subject's need for bronchodilator medication was related to the volume of air they breathed. The more air an individual breathed, the more bronchodilator that person needed.
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This research supports:
a) the known link between hyperventilation and asthma
b) the effectiveness of the Buteyko Method in normalising breathing
c) the relationship between the normalisation of breathing and the reduced
need for medication
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The outcome of the Brisbane trial has led the Australian National Asthma Campaign to include Buteyko in their next doctor's asthma Mangement Handbook, giving official blessing to the Buteyko Method.
At present, similar trials are planned in New Zealand, Australia, and the UK. The Victorian Asthma Foundation has made AUD$20,000 available for further research into Buteyko.
Click here to read a full version of the trial published in the Australian Medical Journal.
