The practice of controlled movements and deep breathing that are characteristic of Tai Chi reduces pain and disability caused by arthritis. Tai Chi, a physical discipline that originated in China, uses gentle movements and slides which can be done by practically everyone.
After reviewing studies on Tai Chi involving people with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, the team of Amanda Hall at the George Institute for International Health in Australia found that the practice reduced the levels of pain.
Tai Chi also decreased disability due to pain associated with daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs, sitting and getting up, doing household chores, shopping, and leisure activities. These results suggest that Tai Chi is effective in reducing arthritic pain and disability, according to Hall.
Previous studies had demonstrated the effectiveness of Tai Chi in reducing pain and increasing physical functioning. The new analysis can quantify the effect, according to the research team.
The review included five studies on the effects of Tai Chi on people with osteoarthritis in the hip, knee, ankle, and lower back, plus another study on people with rheumatoid arthritis.
The subjects, aged 60 or over had participated in group classes in Tai Chi, at 40 to 60 minutes, once or twice a week in which they were encouraged to practice the exercises at home.
When comparing levels of pain, as well as disability due to pain, before and after the Tai Chi program, the data revealed decreases of 10 points on a scale of 100 in both indicators.
“The study suggests that Tai Chi has tended to improve morale and reduce stress level,” added Hall.
