Each technique offers its own approach and attitude, but generally they use special mental and physical exercises to teach patients how to discover and relieve tension and correct improper ways of moving.
Practitioners claim the therapies are useful in arthritis, fibromyalgia, and chronic pain.
Some physicians and physical therapists recommend them for these conditions and others such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, and recovery from joint replacement surgery. Even some major health organizations, like California's Kaiser Permanente, offer classes in them. However, there is little scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness. They learn new methods of moving, sitting, and standing which are less harmful or damaging. People with injuries or conditions that hamper movement may focus on flexibility and range of motion exercises to find which movements require the least effort and strain.