Editing Buteyko method (section)

{{Short description|Alternative physical therapy for asthma}}

The '''Buteyko method''' or '''Buteyko breathing technique''' is a form of [[Alternative medicine|complementary or alternative]] [[physiotherapy|physical therapy]] that proposes the use of breathing exercises primarily as a treatment for [[asthma]] and other respiratory conditions.<ref name="aus17" />

Buteyko asserts that numerous medical conditions, including asthma, are caused or exacerbated by chronically increased [[respiratory rate]] or [[hyperventilation]]. The method aims to correct hyperventilation and encourage shallower, slower breathing. Treatments include a series of reduced-breathing exercises that focus on [[Pranayama#Forms|nasal-breathing]], [[Pranayama#Forms|breath-holding]] and [[Relaxation (psychology)|relaxation]].

Advocates of the Buteyko method claim that it can alleviate symptoms and reliance on medication for patients with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and chronic hyperventilation.  The medical community questions these claims, given limited and inadequate evidence supporting the theory and efficacy of the method.<ref name=aus17/><ref name=sign/>