Buteyko Technique recognised by the British Thoracic Society

Buteyko Technique is a method of breathing most commonly used in the treatment of asthma.  It was developed in Russia in the 1950s by a doctor called Konstantin Buteyko and later spread to the West.

Up until now conventional medicine took the stance that that there was insufficient evidence to recommend Buteyko Technique.  However in May 2008 the updated British Guidelines for the Management of Asthma endorsed Buteyko Technique so that GPs and asthma nurses can now recommend it.  The new guidelines grade the research on Buteyko as a 'B' classification - indicating that there are high quality clinical trials supporting the efficacy of the therapy in reducing both asthma symptoms and bronchiodilator usage.  No other complementary therapy has been endorsed by this body for the treatment of asthma.

The guidelines are produced jointly by the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network and the British Thoracic Society.

The Buteyko Breathing Association has around 100 members who are healthcare professionals.  The organisation teaches a short post-graduate course in using Buteyko Technique for asthma.