Abstract
Objective Parkinson's disease adversely affects function and quality of life, leading to increased mortality. The practice of Tai Chi has been associated with multifaceted improvements in health-related fitness. Considering the limited number of clinical studies included in previous reviews, inconsistent methodological quality, and inconclusive results, this meta-analysis aims to assess the effects of Tai Chi in patients with Parkinson's disease. Method Four English language databases and four Chinese databases were systematically searched for existing randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of Tai Chi in Parkinson's disease from database inception through August 1, 2020. Methodological quality was appraised with the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. A meta-analysis of comparative effects was performed using the Review Manager v.5.3 software. Results Seventeen published RCTs totaling 951 subjects were included. Results showed that Tai Chi has a statistically significant effect on the outcomes of gait velocity, unified Parkinson's disease rating scale (UPDRS) motor score, activities-specific balance confidence (ABC) score, and Berg Balance Scale (BBS). The effects on the Timed Up and Go Test (TUGT) and Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire-39 (PDQ-39) were not statistically significant. Conclusions This systematic review and meta-analysis of Parkinson's disease and Tai Chi suggests Tai Chi is a relatively safe activity that can result in gains in general motor function and improve bradykinesia and balance. It has no statistically significant advantage for quality of life and functional mobility. Further randomized trials with larger sample sizes and of higher methodological quality are needed to confirm these results and to assess the feasibility of Tai Chi intervention for potential different clinical applications.
Highlights
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is globally the second most common elderly neurodegenerative disease, characterized pathologically by degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra and the formation of Lewy bodies [1]
385 studies were screened. 339 studies were excluded based on the abstract and title because of (1) being irrelevant to the theme; (2) no randomized controlled trials (RCTs); (3) no relevant outcomes; (4) meeting reports; and (5) no complete report. 46 potentially relevant studies were identified for fulltext analysis. 29 were excluded due to (1) no available data; (2) incorrect random method; (3) subjects having other complications; and (4) intervention combined with other methods
We presented a systematic review and meta-analysis that included 17 published RCTs totaling 951 subjects. is work aimed to address the effect of Tai Chi in the management of PD through the evaluation of Tai Chi on motor function, balance, and quality of life. e results provide a new level of evidence for clinical professionals
Summary
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is globally the second most common elderly neurodegenerative disease, characterized pathologically by degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra and the formation of Lewy bodies [1]. Parkinson’s patients have gait and posture disorders, resting tremor, bradykinesia, muscle stiffness, and other characteristic motor symptoms [2]. Patients lose postural stability and the ability to maintain standing balance (including frequent falls), have gait dysfunction, have difficulty managing activities of daily living, and have worsened function and quality of life [3, 4]. Loss of independence, gait dysfunction, and frequent falls persist in patients with PD, which lead to a reduced quality of life and increased mortality [5]. Us, the Movement Disorder Society Evidence-Based Medicine Panel recommends exercise and physical therapy as an efficacious adjunct to levodopa [6]. Tai Chi is a popular exercise in Chinese society, consisting of slow, gentle, and flowing movements that involve strengthening, balance, postural alignment, mind Loss of independence, gait dysfunction, and frequent falls persist in patients with PD, which lead to a reduced quality of life and increased mortality [5]. us, the Movement Disorder Society Evidence-Based Medicine Panel recommends exercise and physical therapy as an efficacious adjunct to levodopa [6].
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