Overview

The Bowen technique is a type of touch therapy developed by Tom Bowen (1916-1982), a self-proclaimed osteopath. It has been used for pain, fatigue, relaxation, frozen shoulder, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Practitioners of the Bowen technique believe that applying pressure in specific areas can stimulate the body's own healing ability. However, there is no reliable scientific support for this belief.

How does it work ?

Practitioners of the Bowen technique believe that applying pressure in specific areas can stimulate the body's own healing ability. However, there is no reliable scientific support for this belief.

Uses & Effectiveness

Insufficient Evidence for

  • Frozen shoulder. Some developing research shows that the Bowen technique might reduce pain and improve symptoms in some people with frozen shoulder.
  • Chronic pain. Early research shows that the Bowen technique does not produce lasting relief from chronic pain.
  • Stress. Early research shows that the Bowen technique might reduce stress and improve wellbeing in healthy people.
  • Stroke. Early research shows that the Bowen technique might improve certain movements and physical health in some people recovering from a stroke.
  • Fatigue.
  • Relaxation.
  • Other conditions.

More evidence is needed to rate the effectiveness of the Bowen technique for these uses.

Side Effects



Special Precautions and Warnings



The Bowen technique is POSSIBLY SAFE when performed correctly and for a short period of time. The Bowen technique has not been linked with any side effects.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough information to know if the Bowen technique is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. However, there is no reason to suspect safety issues when used appropriately.

Interactions

We currently have no information for Bowen Technique overview.

Dosing

The Bowen technique is a treatment that uses light pressure applied to specific locations throughout the body.
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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

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