A randomised controlled trial of the Buteyko technique as an adjunct to conventional management of asthma.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the effectiveness of a non-pharmacological intervention in patients with asthma on conventional therapy including inhaled corticosteroid.


METHODS
A randomised controlled trial of the Buteyko technique in a group of adults with asthma. The control group was trained by a physiotherapist in breathing and relaxation techniques.


METHODS
A single centre associated with a University-based asthma programme.


METHODS
Asthma control, defined by a composite score based on the Canadian asthma consensus report 6 months after completion of the intervention.


RESULTS
Both groups showed substantial and similar improvement and a high proportion with asthma control 6 months after completion of the intervention. In the Buteyko group the proportion with asthma control increased from 40% to 79% and in the control group from 44% to 72%. In addition the Buteyko group had significantly reduced their inhaled corticosteroid therapy compared with the control group (p=0.02). None of the other differences between the groups at 6 months were significant.


CONCLUSIONS
Six months after completion of the interventions, a large majority of subjects in each group displayed control of their asthma with the additional benefit of reduction in inhaled corticosteroid use in the Buteyko group. The Buteyko technique, an established and widely recognised intervention, or an intensive programme delivered by a chest physiotherapist appear to provide additional benefit for adult patients with asthma who are being treated with inhaled corticosteroid.
Cowie
Robert L
RL
Calgary COPD and Asthma Program, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2N 4N1. cowie@ucalgary.ca
Conley
Diane P
DP
Underwood
Margot F
MF
Reader
Patricia G
PG
D000280:Administration, Inhalation; D000328:Adult; D001249:Asthma / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000628:therapy*; D001507:Beclomethasone / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001945:Breathing Exercises; D001993:Bronchodilator Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D016009:Chi-Square Distribution; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D001993:Bronchodilator Agents; D001507:Beclomethasone