Qi Therapy Research Articles

Acupuncture as a new cultural tourism product in Greater Bay Area – Stakeholders’ perspectives

ABSTRACT Qi is a body network other than blood, nerve and lymph network being recognized by western medication and is identified by Chinese in thousand years ago. However, Qi network still remains relatively vague in the eyes of many scientists and people nowadays, despite the fact that Americans are adopting acupuncture as one of the medical treatments. Presently, a growing number of international tourists were found to be interested in learning more about the Chinese culture, particularly the Qi and acupuncture. It is conceivable that a combination of Qi knowledge and therapy devices can turn into an additional tourism attraction in China for international tourists. Interviews with specialists were conducted to receive valuable stakeholders’ viewpoints about the barriers and alternatives to develop the proposed tourism product.

Hypothesis on how Distance External Qi Therapy works

Hypothesis on how Distance External Qi Therapy works

A Feasibility Study on the Implementation of Qigong Exercises in the Elderly Population Suffering from Chronic Back Pain

Background: Chronic Back Pain (CBP) is a common symptom bothering the elderly population seeking medical care. The most common strategy suggested for the relief of this condition is pharmacological and causes harmful side effects. Yi Ren Medical Qigong (YRMQ) has demonstrated that just one single application of this gentle exercise could reduce chronic pain in elderly people. The objective of this clinical trial was to evaluate the effectiveness of qi therapy in decreasing pain or discomfort. Methods: This pilot study evaluated the use of YRMQ in a group of seven participants with CBP. Participants aged 66.7+/-3.4 years with CBP took part in weekly one-h group qigong sessions in addition to practicing a shorter version of the exercises at home twice a week. Pain intensity was evaluated using a Visual Analog Scale (VAS), showing reduction of symptoms. Other assessment tools such as the Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ) and the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) scales were used to measure the pain reduction over the course of the 5-week trial. Results: A total of 7 subjects (4 women and 3 men) were enrolled successfully in the trial. Out of the seven participants, 28.6% (two) of the subjects came every week, 42.8% (three) missed one week, while 28.6% (two) missed two or more weeks. The mean adjusted low back intensity using the VAS started at 4.43+/-2.76 and ended at 3.16+/-2.4 (P=0.144). The quality of life was measured with the RMDQ and showed a reduction from the beginning of the trial at 6.43+/-5.65 to the end at 4+/-4.24 (P=0.042). Finally the two-part BPI also decreased from the baseline to week-5 respectively (Part I and II) from 4.61+/-2.82 to 2.65+/-0.91 (P=0.043) and from 4.25+/-2.74 to the end at 2.23+/-1.29 (P=0.043). No serious or life-threatening adverse effects were found. Conclusion: Qigong has proven to provide at least in the short term some reduction of pain and pain medication use. Our preliminary efficacy results were consistent with previous qigong studies showing improvement of back pain via assessment score changes, but not enough significant statistical evidence relevant to prove replicable efficacy of the proposed exercises. There were still multiple limitations to our trial such as the study group not having a control group to compare the results. The small sample size associated with our pilot design limited our statistical power. Conducting a 5 week pilot trial of qigong exercises for an elderly population sample with CBP was moderately feasible.

Abstract B47: External Qi of Yan Xin Qigong induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in colon cancer cells through regulation of multiple signaling pathways

Abstract The concept external Qi of Qigong refers to the technology and ability of “Qi deployment” therapy and health preservation of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). External Qi therapy of TCM has long been one of the medical practices in China. Long-term clinical observations and ongoing studies have shown positive effects of external Qi of Yan Xin Qigong (YXQ-EQ) on patients of various types of cancer. The molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying YXQ-EQ's antitumor effects have recently begun to be addressed. In the present study we investigated YXQ-EQ's effects on the growth and apoptosis of human colon carcinoma HT-29 cells. We show that YXQ-EQ treatment reduced the viability and inhibited clonogenic growth of HT-29 cells. In agreement, YXQ-EQ induced cell cycle G1 arrest and apoptosis in HT-29 cells. YXQ-EQ induced apoptosis is accompanied by DNA fragmentation and cleavage of procaspase-3 and -9 and poly(ribose-ADP) polymerase. YXQ-EQ inhibited phosphorylation of Akt and GSK3β, decreased the levels of cyclin D1 and hyper-phosphorylated Rb, and repressed the expression of antiapoptic proteins Bcl-XL, XIAP, and survivin. Concomitantly, YXQ-EQ increased the expression of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p21CIP1/WAF1. These findings suggest that YXQ-EQ may induce cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in colon cancer cells through regulation of multiple signaling pathways that play important roles in cell proliferation, survival and apoptosis. Citation Information: Cancer Prev Res 2010;3(1 Suppl):B47.

Abstract C155: External Qi of Yan Xin Qigong induces apoptosis and inhibits migration and invasion of estrogen-independent breast cancer cells by down-regulating Akt/NF-κB signaling

Abstract Background: The concept External Qi of Qigong refers to the technology and ability of “Qi deployment” therapy and health preservation of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). External Qi therapy of TCM has long been one of the medical practices in China. Long-term clinical observations and ongoing studies have shown positive effects of external Qi of Yan Xin Qigong (YXQ-EQ) on cancer patients. Recently, the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying YXQ-EQ's antitumor effects have begun to be addressed. In the present study we investigated YXQ-EQ's effects on growth, migration, invasion and apoptosis of estrogen-independent breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cells and the underlying molecular mechanisms. Methods: Cytotoxic effects were evaluated by trypan blue exclusion assay, MTS assay and/or clonogenic assay. Apoptosis was assessed by DNA fragmentation and cleavage of caspases and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase. Quantitative analysis of apoptosis and cell cycle distribution was carried out by flow cytometry. Migration and invasion assay was performed in Transwell Boyden chambers and Matrigel-coated Boyden chambers, respectively. NF-κB activity was determined by electrophoresis mobility shift assay. Akt phosphorylation and NF-κB target gene expression was evaluated by Western blot analysis. Results: YXQ-EQ treatment of MDA-MB-231 cells induced a time-dependent reduction in viability, clonogenic growth inhibition, and apoptosis. Furthermore, YXQ-EQ blocked migration and invasion of MDA-MB-231 cells. Biochemically, YXQ-EQ markedly inhibited constitutive and EGF-induced Akt phosphorylation. YXQ-EQ also substantially repressed NF-κB activity, resulting in decreased expression of antiapoptotic Bcl-2, Bcl-XL, XIAP and survivin proteins. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that YXQ-EQ may induce apoptosis and inhibit migration and invasion of MDA-MB-231 cells through the repression of Akt/NF-κB signaling. Citation Information: Mol Cancer Ther 2009;8(12 Suppl):C155.

An Analytical Review of the Chinese Literature on Qigong Therapy for Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes rates have doubled in China over the past decade. However, as conventional medicine offers neither a sound explanation nor an effective cure, patients with diabetes increasingly seek complementary and alternative therapies. It was reported that the traditional Chinese medical approach, Qigong, might produce therapeutic benefits with minimal side-effects in this condition. The Qigong Database, the China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and the library databases of Chinese institutions from 1978 to middle of 2008 on open trials, laboratory studies, and controlled clinical studies were reviewed. Over 35 studies were identified and reviewed. Qigong therapy for diabetic patients included self-practice, group qi-field therapy, external qi therapy, and Qigong in combination with other therapies. Only 2 randomized controlled trials were found; both evaluate Qigong as an adjuvant to conventional therapy. All studies reported some therapeutic effect or improvement. Some reported significant reduction in fasting plasma glucose. Others reported complete cures, which were unlikely to be the result of placebo effect as objective outcome measures were used. Qigong therapy may be an important complement to conventional medicine in treating diabetes, but the quality of studies needs to be improved. These preliminary data are promising and support the need for further randomized controlled trials.

Abstract A16: External Qi of Yan Xin Qigong induces apoptosis in estrogen-independent breast cancer cells through inhibition of the Akt/NF-κB pathway

Abstract A16 The concept External Qi of Qigong refers to the technology and ability of the “Qi deployment” therapy and health preservation in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). External Qi therapy of TCM has long been one of the medical practices and under the management of the health authorities in China. Studies have shown substantial beneficial effects of Yan Xin Qigong (YXQ) that originated from TCM on disease management, weight control, and optimizing caloric intake and diet habit. The external Qi of Yan Xin Qigong (YXQ-EQ) has previously been shown to have potent antioxidative properties. In the present study we have investigated the effect of YXQ-EQ on the Akt/NF-κB signaling pathway that is crucial for tumor growth and progression in estrogen-independent breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cells. YXQ-EQ significantly inhibited constitutive and EGF-stimulated Akt phosphorylation. Furthermore, YXQ-EQ substantially inhibited constitutive NF-κB activity and downregulated the expression of NF-κB target genes Bcl-2, Bcl-xL, XIAP and survivin. YXQ-EQ treatment caused a dramatic reduction in the viability of MDA-MB-231 cells, accompanied by DNA fragmentation, cleavage of PARP, and activation of caspase-3 and caspase-9. These findings suggest that YXQ-EQ might induce apoptosis in MDA-MB-231 cells through inactivation of Akt/NF-κB signaling. YXQ-EQ could potentially be a novel approach for breast cancer prevention and therapy. Citation Information: Cancer Prev Res 2008;1(7 Suppl):A16.

IS THERE ANY DIFFERENCE IN THE EFFECTS OF QI THERAPY (EXTERNAL QIGONG) WITH AND WITHOUT TOUCHING? A PILOT STUDY

The aim of this study was to evaluate differences in the effects of Qi therapy without touching or with touching on anxiety, mood, neurohormones, and cellular immune function. Twenty-four healthy male subjects were randomly assigned to either QTN (n = 12) or QTT (n = 12). They received Qi therapy (external Qigong) without touching (QTN) or with touching (QTT). Nonparametric statistical tests revealed no significant differences between the effects of QTN and QTT (all p > .05). Separate Wilcox signed rank tests for each intervention revealed significant effects on anxiety, alertness, depression, fatigue, tension, cortisol levels, and NK cell cytotoxicity for both QTN and QTT, and on neutrophil function for QTN only. These findings suggest that there are few differences between the effects of QTN and QTT. However, the reproducibility of the findings should be tested with multiple sessions, and long-term follow-up tests.

Effects of Qi therapy (external Qigong) on symptoms of advanced cancer: a single case study

The aim of this study was to examine the effectiveness of Qi therapy (external Qigong) in the management of symptoms of advanced cancer in a man. We used a single case study design to evaluate the effectiveness of Qi therapy (external Qigong) in a 35-year-old man with advanced cancer (Stage IV) involving metastases in the stomach, lung and bone (Karnofsky performance scale: KPS, 40: requires special care and assistance, disabled). Treatment involved six days of pre-assessment, eight treatment sessions on alternate days over 16 days, and a two-week follow-up phase. A visual analogue scale (VAS) was used to assess the patient's self-reported symptoms of cancer over the intervention and follow-up periods. Following treatment, VAS scores' analysis revealed beneficial effects on pain, vomiting, dyspnoea, fatigue, anorexia, insomnia, daily activity and psychological calmness. These improvements were maintained over the two-week follow-up phase. After the first Qi therapy session, the patient discontinued medication and could sit by himself; after the fourth session, the patient was able to walk and use the toilet without assistance (improvement in KPS: 70: care for self, unable to perform normal activity or to do active work). Although limited by the single case study approach, our results support previous studies on this topic and provide reasons to conduct controlled clinical trials.

Two case reports of the acute effects of Qi therapy (external Qigong) on symptoms of cancer: short report

This paper reports upon two case studies addressing the short-term effects of Qi therapy on symptoms of cancer in two terminally ill oncology patients. Changes in anxiety state, pain, discomfort, depression, mood, alertness, and fatigue in two cancer patients were assessed. Treatment involved four therapy sessions on alternate days over a 7-day period. After 20 min of Qi therapy, both patients experienced improvements in mood and alertness, and a reduction in pain, anxiety, depression, discomfort, and fatigue, on both the first and last days of the interventions. Furthermore, the scores recorded on the last day for most symptoms were improved than those recorded on the first day. Although the results of these two case studies do not constitute conclusive evidence, the data suggest that Qi therapy may have some beneficial effects on some symptoms of cancer.

Qi Therapy (External Qigong) for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Case Studies

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of Qi therapy (QT) on the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), including fatigue and complications. QT affected the experience of mental and emotional relaxation in the subjects of these case studies, who also gained strength to overcome their pain and fatigue. Although the results of these two case studies may not constitute conclusive evidence, they provide a foundation for the exploration of QT as a complementary therapy in the reduction of negative symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome.

EFFECTS OF QI-THERAPY (EXTERNAL QIGONG) ON CARDIAC AUTONOMIC TONE: A RANDOMIZED PLACEBO CONTROLLED STUDY

Heart-rate variability (HRV) was compared in 40 subjects receiving external Qi-therapy (QT) or placebo control therapy, in a randomized placebo controlled design experiment. There were significant time, and group × time interactions in heart rate (HR), low frequency (LF), high frequency (HF), and LF/HF. These suggest that QT reduced the HR and increased HRV as indicated by a reduced LF/HF power ratio of HRV. These findings suggest that QT stabilizes the sympathovagal function more than placebo therapy.

Nonlinear Analysis of Heart Rate Variability During Qi Therapy (External Qigong)

Heart rate variability (HRV) was compared in 30 subjects receiving external Qi therapy (EQT) or placebo control therapy, in a crossover design experiment. Subjects who received the EQT reported more pleasant and calm emotions than did the placebo group. Qi therapy reduced the heart rate and increased HRV as indicated by a reduced low frequency/high frequency power ratio of HRV. With nonlinear analysis, the Poincaré plot index of HRV and approximate entropy was greater in the EQT group than in the control group. These findings suggest that EQT stabilizes the sympathovagal function and cardiac autonomic nervous system by inducing more positive emotions than the placebo therapy. In conclusion, EQT may act by stabilizing both the autonomic nervous system and the emotional state.

The History, Present Status and Research of Wai Qi Therapy

The History, Present Status and Research of Wai Qi Therapy

Qi therapy as a complementary therapy in chronic myeloid leukemia

We describe the successful treatment of a case of chronic myeloid leukemia with Qi therapy. The patient's disease was managed with conventional medical treatment and Qi therapy as a complementary therapy. Before Qi therapy, 95% of the patient's bone marrow showed evidence of disease. A second bone marrow sample five months after Qi therapy revealed that 38% of the bone marrow was normal; one year after Qi therapy the bone marrow was no longer producing any cancer cells. Although these results were obtained for a single case only and may not constitute conclusive evidence, the data suggest that Qi therapy given as a complementary therapy during conventional medical treatment may have beneficial effects on chronic myeloid leukemia.

Qi-therapy, chaotic characteristics of peripheral blood pressure and biochemical variables

We investigated the effect of Qi therapy (QT) on peripheral blood pressure (PBP), glucose, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and cortisol concentrations. Fourteen college students participated in receiving QT and placebo treatment. There were significant differences in embedding dimension of PBP. Plasma cortisol concentrations during QT were significantly lower than during control sessions (P<O.05). These findings suggest that QT may reduce stess level and stabilize the autonomic nervous system. Whether QT have permanent effects and effects in patients need controlled and prospective studies.

External Qi therapy to treat symptoms of Agent Orange Sequelae in Korean combat veterans of the Vietnam War.

We investigated the efficacy of Qi therapy as a non-pharmacological treatment for various symptoms presented by Korean combat veterans of the Vietnam War with Agent Orange Sequelae. Nine subjects volunteered to receive 30 minutes of Qi therapy, twice per day for 7 days. There was marked improvement in 89% of the patients with impaired physical activity, 86% of those with psychological disorder, 78% of those with heavy drug use, and 67% of those with fatigue, indigestion and high blood glucose levels. This data suggests that Qi therapy combined with conventional treatment has positive effects in reducing and managing the pain, psychosomatic disorders, and substance abuse in patients with Agent Orange Sequelae. We cannot completely discount the possible influence of the placebo effect, and more objective, clinical measures are needed to study the long-term effects of Qi therapy.

An exploratory pilot study of Qi-therapy (External Qi Healing) on symptoms of premenstrual syndrome

This study assessed the effects of Qi therapy (QT) on premenstrual symptoms in women with premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Forty-six college women were randomly allocated to receive QT (QT group: n=23) or complete diary of PMS (control group: n=22, 1 was dropped out). The experimental group receives 12 minutes Qi therapy for 5 times (7, 4, 1 day before and 7, 14 day after menstruation), and control group relaxed in the same procedure with experimental group. We measured pain, depression and anxiety level with visual analogue scale (VAS) to investigate participants responses. There were significant reductions on pain, depression and anxiety in QT group compared with control. These findings suggest that Qi therapy may have a role in helping the women with PMS to cope with their pain, depression and anxiety symptoms.

Effects of external Qi therapy on cardiac autonomic tone: a randomised placebo controlled study

Effects of external Qi therapy on cardiac autonomic tone: a randomised placebo controlled study

Effects of in vitro and in vivo Qi-therapy on neutrophil superoxide generation in healthy male subjects.

The present study investigated the effects of in vitro and in vivo Korean ChunSoo Qi-Energy Healing on neutrophil superoxide generation. Neutrophil superoxide generation was measured by a chemiluminescence assay. Superoxide generation was significantly increased in vitro by emitted Qi-therapy (QT) of 60-second duration and 150-second duration compared to control (1.59-fold for 60 seconds, p < 0.05; 1.50-fold for 150 seconds, p < 0.05). Neutrophil superoxide generation increased significantly immediately after 5 minutes of QT in vivo (1.42-fold, p < 0.05). These results show that QT in vivo and in vitro has an acute stimulatory effect on neutrophil superoxide generation. This study provides direct scientific support that Qi as such may positively affect human innate immunity.