Tai Chi Research Articles

Efectividad y beneficios del ejercicio físico en pacientes con fibromialgia: una revisión bibliográfica

Introduction: Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by wides­pread pain, non-restorative sleep, fatigue, and cognitive dysfunction, which significantly affects patients’ quality of life. Material or Patients and Methods: This literature review analyzes the efficacy and benefits of physical exercise in the management of fibromyalgia, including aerobic exercises, strengthening, flexibility, aquatic activities, and specific practices like Tai Chi, yoga, and Pilates. The search was conducted in the scientific databases PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Priority was given to the inclusion of randomized clinical trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses. Results: Evidence demonstrates that physical exercise can reduce pain, improve functional capacity and quality of life, and decrease fatigue and stiffness. At the molecular level, physical exercise modulates inflammatory markers and neurotransmitters, contributing to the reduction of central sensitization and improving cognitive function and sleep quality. However, the response to exercise varies among patients due to the heterogeneity of the condition. Conclusion: It is crucial to design individualized and progressive exercise programs to maximize benefits and minimize the risk of exacerbating symptoms. Interdisciplinary collaboration and the integration of strategies to improve adherence are essential for deve­loping safe and effective exercise programs that enhance the quality of life for patients with fibromyalgia.

Effects of non-pharmacological interventions on the depressive outcomes in people with mild cognitive impairment: an overview of systematic reviews

ObjectiveThis study aimed to summarize and assess the certainty of evidence of non-pharmacological interventions (NPIs) on the depressive outcomes in people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) based on published systematic reviews (SRs).MethodDatabases including PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, CNKI, CBM, Wanfang and VIP database were searched from their inception to June 6, 2023. The methodological quality of the SRs was evaluated using the AMSTAR2 tool, and the quality of evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendation Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) framework.ResultsTwelve eligible SRs were included. Three SRs focused on cognitive interventions (general, computer-based, cognitive stimulation/rehabilitation), six reviews on physical activity (Tai Chi, exercise therapy, dance), three on psychosocial interventions including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) and type not specified, one on music therapy, and one on health education; moreover, there were two SRs on multimodal NPIs. One Cochrane SR was rated as moderate quality, while the others were rated as low quality according to AMSTAR2. The overlap between primary studies of included SRs (a total of 51 studies) was 1.8%, indicating slight overlap. General cognitive interventions (SMD=-0.25, 95% CI [−0.46, −0.04], GRADE: moderate) and computer-based cognitive interventions (narrative evidence) showed potential benefits in improving depression. Exercise therapy showed consistency between two SRs in benefiting depressive symptoms of MCI (SMD=-0.33, 95% CI [−0.56, −0.10], GRADE: Low; SMD=−0.37, 95% CI [-0.64, -0.10], GRADE: Low). Dance (SMD=−0.37, 95% CI [-1.11, 0.38], GRADE: Low), CBT (SMD=0.03,95% CI [-0.18, 0.24], GRADE: Moderate), MBI (SMD=0.29, 95% CI [0.00, 0.57], GRADE: Very Low) and health education (SMD=-0.12, 95% CI [−0.44, 0.20], GRADE: Low) did not show significant difference compared to control group in improving depressive symptoms, while the effectiveness of Tai Chi, music therapy and multimodal NPIs showed inconsistency across different studies.ConclusionCognitive interventions (general or computer-based) and exercise therapy (a type of physical activity) show preliminary potential to improve depressive symptoms, while others do not show significant effects or relate to confused effects. Further methodologically rigorous and adequately powered primary studies are necessary for each of these NPIs, with reporting on the components of the interventions clearly in MCI patients.

The Impact of Non-pharmacologic Traditional Chinese Medicine on Health-Related Quality of Life and Symptom Management in Breast Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: Breast cancer remains a prevalent malignancy among women globally. Survivors often experience diminished quality of life, pain, and sleep disturbances after treatment and suffer feelings of isolation. Non-pharmacological traditional Chinese medicine (NP-TCM) interventions have been increasingly applied in clinical practice, yet their efficacy requires further clarification. Objective: This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the impact of NP-TCM interventions (e.g. Qigong, Tai Chi, Baduanjin) on the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in breast cancer patients. Methods: Randomized controlled trials published between 1999 and 2024 were retrieved from various databases. Studies comparing NP-TCM and control groups in quality of life and other outcomes were included. Meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4 software. 14 RCTs with 688 patients were included. Results: NP-TCM interventions significantly improved overall quality of life (SMD=0.13, 95%CI 0.24~0.51, P<0.001). Specifically, Baduanjin demonstrated substantial benefits (SMD=0.82, P<0.001). NP-TCM also enhanced sleep (SMD=1.16, P=0.04) and alleviated anxiety (SMD=-0.46, P<0.05). Conclusion: NP-TCM interventions effectively improved the HRQOL and certain symptoms for breast cancer patients, providing practical adjunctive therapies. However, study qualities require optimization.

A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Asian Exercise Techniques and Various Physical Activity Interventions in Middle and Late Adulthood Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis.

The aim of this review and meta-analysis is to compare different low-intensity forms of physical activity (PA; Baduanjin, Tai Chi, walking, and general PA) as treatments for knee osteoarthritis. Between 2003 and 2023, pertinent articles published in scientific electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, EBSCOhost, and Google Scholar) were searched in preparation for a systematic review and meta-analysis. Twenty-four studies that satisfied the requirements were selected, with a total sample size of 1,972 participants, of which 71.46% were female. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses criteria were followed in the study selection process, and the Cochrane Collaboration's risk of bias tool was used to evaluate the quality of the included studies. The systematic review and meta-analysis indicated that various low-intensity PAs, particularly Asian exercise techniques such as Baduanjin, Tai Chi, and walking, significantly alleviated symptoms of knee osteoarthritis in middle and late adulthood. Pain reduction showed a moderately significant effect size (d = -0.65, SE = 0.14, p < .001), with all interventions, including Baduanjin, general PA, Tai Chi, and walking, significantly decreasing pain levels. Stiffness also improved, with a moderate effect size (d = -0.71, SE = 0.17, p < .001), and physical function significantly improved (d = -0.58, SE = 0.15, p < .001). The results suggest that walking and Baduanjin exercises can be effectively integrated into community-based programs for middle-aged and older adults to manage knee osteoarthritis symptoms, offering a cost-effective nonpharmacological intervention.

A randomized controlled trial to assess the efficacy of standardized tai chi in prefrail older adults with immunosenescence: design and protocol

BackgroundFrailty is a common geriatric syndrome worldwide, and its early identification and intervention have important clinical significance. Resistance training has been recommended as an efficient means to combat loss of muscle strength and mass; however, it is often not a prioritized option for older adults. Tai chi is a well-known traditional Chinese exercise that has a beneficial impact on physical performance, balance ability, metabolism, and immune function.AimsWith the newly emerged concept of muscle-immune homeostasis, this study focused on determining the efficacy of tai chi prefrail older adults who develop immunosenescence. Furthermore, the proper timing of the exercise regimen for maximizing the therapeutic effect of tai chi has also been explored.MethodsThis 12-week, multicenter, randomized controlled trial (RCT) was conducted with participants between 60 and 75 years of age. A total of 144 prefrail participants were included in this study and were randomized (1:1:1:1) to four groups: (1) a control group with only health education, (2) a morning tai chi group, (3) a morning resistance training group, and (4) an afternoon tai chi group. The primary endpoints included physical performance, frailty index scores, muscle strength, and mass, and the secondary endpoints were the sarcopenia quality of life score, Berg balance scale score, bioenergetic anti-stress index (BASI), and immune risk profile (IRP). The data were analyzed according to the intention-to-treat protocol.DiscussionThe results of this investigation aided in determining whether tai chi effectively reversed the prefrail state of older adults and ameliorated biomarkers of immunosenescence. Furthermore, proper exercise timing was also determined to maximize the efficacy of physical training.Trial registrationChinese Clinical Trial Registry; registration number: ChiCTR2200065815; prospectively registered on November 16th, 2022.

Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and Tai Chi Chuan for Older Adults With Sleep Disorders and Mild Cognitive Impairment

Sleep disorders and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) commonly coexist in older adults, increasing their risk of developing dementia. Long-term tai chi chuan has been proven to improve sleep quality in older adults. However, their adherence to extended training regimens can be challenging. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a neuromodulation technique that may enhance the benefits of exercise. To investigate whether 1-Hz rTMS of the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex could enhance the clinical benefits of tai chi chuan in improving sleep quality and cognitive function among older adults with sleep disorders and MCI. This 2-arm, sham-controlled, assessor-masked randomized clinical trial was conducted at a university hospital in China between October 2022 and February 2024. Adults aged 60 to 75 years with sleep disorders and MCI were eligible. Data analysis was performed from February to May 2024. Participants were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to an experimental group (tai chi chuan and 1-Hz rTMS) or a sham group (tai chi chuan and sham rTMS). Each participant received 30 sessions of personalized rTMS targeting the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, and the sham group underwent the same procedure. The 2 groups received 30 sessions of 60 minutes of the 24-form simplified tai chi chuan, 5 times per week for 6 weeks. The primary outcomes were subjective sleep quality assessed by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), in which scores range from 0 to 21, with lower scores indicating a healthier sleep quality, and global cognitive function assessed by the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), in which scores range from 0 to 30, with higher scores indicating less cognitive impairment. The secondary outcomes included measures of objective sleep actigraphy, anxiety and depression scales, and other cognitive subdomains. Assessments were performed at baseline, 6 weeks after the intervention, and at the 12-week follow-up. A total of 110 participants (mean [SD] age, 67.9 [4.6] years; 68 female [61.8%]) were randomized to the experimental group (n = 55) and the sham group (n = 55) and included in the intention-to-treat analysis. At 6 weeks after the intervention, compared with the sham group, the experimental group showed a lower PSQI score (between-group mean difference, -3.1 [95% CI, -4.2 to -2.1]; P < .001) and a higher MoCA score (between-group mean difference, 1.4 [95% CI, 0.7-2.1]; P < .001). The per-protocol dataset analyses and 12-week follow-up showed similar results. The generalized estimated equation model revealed an interaction effect between the PSQI score (mean difference, -2.1 [95% CI, -3.1 to -0.1]; P < .001) and the MoCA total score (mean difference, 0.9 [95% CI, 0.1-1.6]; P = .01). There were 7 nonserious, unrelated adverse events (experimental group: 2; sham group: 5) with no significant difference between the 2 groups. In this randomized clinical trial, the findings suggest that 1-Hz rTMS enhanced the clinical benefits of tai chi chuan in improving sleep quality and cognitive function among older adults with sleep disorders and MCI, which may be related to alterations in neural plasticity. These findings provide novel data on nonpharmacologic strategies for the rehabilitation of sleep disorders and may delay or even prevent MCI. Chinese Clinical Trial Registry Identifier: ChiCTR2200063274.

Multi-domain Online Therapeutic Investigation of Neurocognition (MOTION) - A randomized comparative-effectiveness study of two remotely delivered mind-body interventions for older adults with cognitive decline.

Research suggest that mind-body movement programs have beneficial effects on cognitive outcomes for older adults with cognitive decline. However, few studies have directly compared specific approaches to mind-body movement or studied the impact of remote program delivery. In a 3-arm randomized controlled trial (RCT) for older adults with cognitive impairment, we are comparing a multidomain mind-body program that emphasizes movement, body awareness, personal meaningfulness, and social connection, and a traditional Chinese mind-body exercise (Tai Chi) to a health and wellness education control condition. All 3 interventions are delivered remotely two times per week (onehour per session) for 12 weeks. The two active interventions are live-streamed. Outcomes are assessed prior to, after, and 6-months after the interventions. The co-primary outcomes are changes on the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale - Cognitive Subscale (ADAS-cog) and brain functional connectivity in the Default Mode Network (DMN). Secondary outcomes include measures of specific cognitive domains (e.g., executive function, attention), mobility, and self-report measures of general well-being, quality of life, social engagement, self- and attention-regulation. This RCT will directly compare the effects of two mind-body movement programs versus an education control delivered remotely over 12 weeks on cognitive, neuroimaging, and participant-reported outcomes. If successful, these programs may provide scalable strategies for slowing cognitive decline, which could potentially delay dementia onset in some individuals. NCT05217849.

Effects of body weight-supported Tai Chi Yunshou training on upper limb motor function in stroke patients: A three-arm parallel randomized controlled trial.

To form a unique body weight support-Tai Chi Yunshou (BWS-TCY) training method, apply it to the treatment of upper limb dysfunction after stroke, and provide a new safe and effective treatment method for the clinic. A total of 93 subjects were recruited and randomly divided into conventional rehabilitation treatment (CRT) group, BWS-TCY group and traditional robot-assisted training (RAT) group in equal proportions. Subjects in the CRT group received 60 minutes of CRT daily. Subjects in the BWS-TCY group received 30 minutes of CRT and 30 minutes of BWS-TCY. Subjects in the RAT group received 30 minutes of CRT and 30 minutes of RAT. All interventions were conducted 5 days per week for 12 weeks. Outcome assessments included the Fugl-Meyer Upper Extremity Motor Function Assessment (FMA-UE), Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT), absolute angular error (AAE), joint range of motion (JMA), modified Barthel Index (MBI), and stroke-related quality of life. Table (SS-QOL). Outcome measures were assessed at baseline, 4 weeks, 8 weeks, and 12 weeks later, and statistical analyzes were performed using two-way repeated measures analysis of variance. After 12 weeks of intervention, significant improvements were observed in all evaluation indicators for the three groups of subjects compared to before the intervention. The upper limb motor function (FMA-UE and WMFT) and proprioception (AAE) showed time effects, time × group interaction effects, and group effects. When comparing the groups, the FMA-UE in the BWS-TCY group, as well as the WMFT and MBI, showed statistically significant differences compared to the CRT group (P<0.05), but not statistically significant compared to the RAT group (P>0.05). The AAE of the BWS-TCY group showed no statistical difference (P>0.05) when compared to the CRT group and RAT group. Furthermore, a time effect was observed on the rotation direction (P<0.05), and pairwise comparison between groups revealed that the BWS-TCY group performed better than both the CRT group and the RAT group. After 12 weeks of intervention, there were time effects and interaction effects between BWS-TCY and daily living activities (MBI) and quality of life (SS-QOL), but no group effect was observed. There was no statistical difference between the two groups in SS-QOL. However, there was a statistical difference (P<0.01) in MBI between the two groups. The 12-week BWS-TCY intervention has been shown to effectively improve upper limb motor function. Retrospectively registered at chictr.org.cn on August 31, 2022 [ChiCTR2200063150] https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=176229.

DEPLOYING TELEWELLNESS PROGRAMS IN THE COMMUNITY: BARRIERS, FACILITATORS, AND POTENTIAL

Abstract ‘Telewellness’ programs use technology (e.g., video conferencing software) to facilitate remote participation in exercise classes. These programs hold great potential to expand access to physical and mental health benefits of group exercise classes for older adults, especially those with mobility disabilities. We translated the Tai Chi for Health Institute’s in-person, evidence-based tai chi program, Tai Chi for Arthritis, to be a virtual experience (via Zoom) that is both socially engaging and inclusive of people with a mobility disabilities. The ‘Tele Tai Chi’ clinical trial (NCT04696887) explored to what extent this program may increase social interaction and positive health behaviors among older adults with long-term mobility disabilities; data analysis is in progress. The next phase of this project is focused on delivering our Tele Tai Chi program in real world, community-based settings (e.g., senior centers, senior living communities). This session will present findings from interviews with subject matter experts (e.g., senior center coordinators, administrators from Area Agencies on Aging, tai chi instructors) on perceived barriers to delivering Telewellness classes (e.g., safety, staffing, demands, technical support), as well as potential facilitators to address them. We will also discuss the need for different models of Telewellness (e.g., hybrid classes with attendees both in-person and online) that align with the community’s unique characteristics, preferences, and support needs.

ADVANCEMENTS IN FRAILTY INTERVENTION RESEARCH: CURRENT TRENDS AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS

Abstract Frailty, a complex, syndromic condition primarily affecting older adults, faces a lack of evidence-based management strategies due to scarce randomized controlled trials. So far, frailty interventions have employed a spectrum of strategies, including health behavior interventions (e.g., diet and exercise), pharmacological interventions targeting specific biological pathways, and personalized geriatric care models. However, the field faces significant challenges that hinder its progress. A notable issue is that there is a noticeable lack of comprehensive management strategies for frailty patients, supported by robust evidence. Moreover, trials examining the impact of physical activity and dietary interventions have largely focused on the clinical manifestations of frailty (e.g., strength) with little evidence of addressing its biological underpinnings. Further complicating these issues is the inconsistent validation of research findings across various studies and demographic groups, casting doubt on their broader relevance and efficacy. The symposium presents four talks: the first evaluates a values-based digital literacy intervention for prefrail and frail individuals with chronic disease; the next two discuss integrating technologies, including sensors with AI and voice-activated devices, for in-home frailty monitoring and intervention; the fourth considers mind-body practices’ (e.g., yoga and tai chi) potential to influence frailty’s biological underpinnings. Collectively, this symposium aims to: (a) differentiate between interventions tailored specifically to address frailty as a unique clinical entity and interventions aimed at improving care for frail older adults; (b) explore innovative approaches for tailoring frailty interventions to patient-specific goals; (c) tackle the inherent research and implementation challenges in frailty care.

Ecotherapy Research: A Narrative Review

Method: This narrative review summarizes research on ecotherapy or experiences in green and blue spaces that have been considered therapeutic. Results: This recent literature includes several reviews and meta-analyses of research conducted during the last two decades as well as more recent empirical studies. Some of the reviews and studies have explored the effects of walking through forests versus walking through urban areas. Others have involved the participants walking through parks or viewing green scenes from videos or windows and engaging in blue water activities and walking on the beach. The therapeutic effects have included decreased depression, anxiety, blood pressure, heart rate and cortisol and increased serotonin as well as a reduction in cardiopulmonary and hypertensive conditions. Discussion: The studies in this review highlight the therapeutic effects of being in nature. However, the research is limited by small samples and by the lack of active comparison groups, and the experience in nature is confounded by other therapeutic activities in the research protocols including walking, yoga, tai chi and massage.

TECHNOLOGY FOR SUPPORTING HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Abstract As the population ages, there is a growing need for technology to support the health and wellbeing of older people. However, technology solutions, for them to be successful, need to recognize the needs, preferences, and abilities of older people, and must be evaluated rigorously for efficacy. This talk provides an overview of the potential and pitfalls of using technology to support health and wellness. Hye Soo Lee, PhD, explores the role of technology in supporting Medicare-related decision-making by older adults, highlighting the need for improved training and the consideration of user characteristics to enhance engagement with government-provided digital tools. Paul Freddolino, PhD, MDiv, presents findings from telehealth training sessions with older adults, emphasizing the importance of end-user feedback in refining patient-focused content and increasing patient engagement in healthcare. Justin Lam, BS, discusses the design of age-friendly web interfaces, focusing on optimizing user interaction patterns and enhancing readability to accommodate the nuanced needs of older adults and their care partners. Elena Remillard, M.S., shares insights from deploying ‘Telewellness’ programs, such as Tele Tai Chi, in community settings, identifying barriers and facilitators to their delivery and discussing the potential of different models to increase access to exercise classes for older adults with mobility disabilities. Leo He, BSc, introduces a novel, radio-based, non-contact system for monitoring nighttime vital signs and sleep, offering a passive, cost-effective solution for home-based health monitoring that avoids the physical and cognitive burdens associated with existing technologies, aiming to improve health intervention and quality of life for older adults.

Comparative effect of Tai-Chi Chuan Versus Aerobic Exercise in Patients with Parkinson’s disease: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Exercise is seen as an important aspects in the management of Parkinson’s disease, one of the most prevalent neurodegenerative diseases in the world. Tai-Chi Chuan, a mind and body exercise, is widely known for its proven benefits in controlling Parkinson’s disease symptoms and could be an alternative exercise compared to conventional aerobic exercise. Therefore, this study aims to compare the effect of Tai-Chi Chuan compared to aerobic exercise in patients with Parkinson’s disease. Systematic review approach based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) was done across 4 databases including PubMed, Scopus, Science direct, and Cochrane. Included studies went through quality assessment using RoB2.0 or ROBINS-I and quantitative assessment using RevMan 5.4.1. From 173 studies, only three studies were eligible. A total of 581 samples were divided into 295 in Tai-Chi and 286 in the aerobic exercise group. Our analysis showed that two studies were low risk in bias and one moderate risk. Tai-Chi group showed a statistically significant better performance in Foot-up and go test [SMD = -0.61; 95% CI (-0.79, -0.44) P = 0.06]and 50-foot walk [SMD = -1.06; 95% CI (-1.86, -0.26) P = 0.009]. Furthermore, Aerobic exercise has a favorable response towards the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) and VO2 max without the significance shown. This systematic review and meta-analysis showed favorable response to both exercise in Parkinson’s disease. Tai-Chi helps Parkinson’s disease in improvements on motor symptoms meanwhile Aerobic exercise in cardiovascular health.

Effects of Tai Chi on physical performance, sleep, and quality of life in older adults with mild to moderate cognitive impairment

Effects of Tai Chi on physical performance, sleep, and quality of life in older adults with mild to moderate cognitive impairment

The Effect of Tai Chi Quan Training on the Anxiety Levels of Indonesian Junior Table Tennis Athletes

This study aims to find out whether there is an influence of Tai Chi Quan training on the performance of Indonesia's junior table tennis athletes. A total of 20 Indonesia junior table tennis athletes aged 14-18 years were put into an experimental group with taichiquan training. The group that received Tai Chi Quan training was trained for 60 minutes, while the control group continued to practice table tennis as usual. Changes in body conditions such as blood pressure, heart rate, changes in anxiety, feelings of confidence, and performance in playing table tennis are measured before and after training. The results of this study were that there was a change in anxiety level at the test point in the tai chi quan group after exercise, while in the control group there was no increase. There were changes that occurred after the exercise treatment, namely cognitive anxiety (x=-1.85; -18.60%), while in the control group (x=- 0.21; -2.31%). In addition, somatic anxiety (x=-3.35; -27.56%). The self-confidence component was negatively correlated with other variables, where in the tai chi quan group the value increased (x=1.96; 11.27%) while in the control group it decreased (x=-0.27; -1.67%). The conclusion of this study is that sixty minutes of tai chi quan training can reduce the anxiety level of Indonesia's junior table tennis athletes.

Biomechanical analysis of kinematics in the single whip movement of Tai Chi using video imaging

“Single whip” is a typical movement in Tai Chi, and the study of its kinematics has important practical value for better understanding the laws and characteristics of Tai Chi movements. This study divided 30 Tai Chi practitioners into two groups based on their skill level: an excellent group and a beginner group. The Vicon motion capture system and a three-dimensional force platform were used to obtain kinematic data. Differences in movements between the two groups at various stages were compared. The results showed that the excellent group took longer in stages one and three, but shorter in stage two. In stage one, the left knee joint angle of the excellent group was 95.45° ± 16.02°, while the right knee and left hip joint angles were larger (148.62° ± 12.84° and 133.55° ± 18.61°). In stage two, the angles of the right knee, left ankle, and right ankle joints of the excellent group were significantly smaller than those of the beginner group. In stage three, the angle of the right elbow joint of the excellent group was larger (154.26° ± 12.06°), while the angles of the right wrist angle and the left and right ankle joints were significantly smaller than those of the beginner group (p &lt; 0.05). In terms of vertical displacement of the center of gravity, the excellent group exhibited less fluctuation and significantly lower dynamic stability in both anterior-posterior and medial-lateral directions compared to the beginner group (p &lt; 0.05).

Tai Chi and Wellness Interventions for Veterans with Gulf War Illness: A Randomized Controlled Feasibility Trial.

Gulf War Illness (GWI) is a chronic multi-symptom illness that affects up to one-third of the 700,000 American military personnel deployed to the Persian Gulf region in 1990 and 1991. We conducted a randomized controlled trial to examine feasibility and the relative efficacy of two 12-week in-person group treatments (Tai Chi and Wellness) to address GWI symptoms of chronic pain, fatigue, and changes in mood and cognitive functioning. Male and female veterans were randomly assigned to Tai Chi (n = 27) or Wellness (n = 26) group interventions and assessed at four time points: baseline, post-treatment, 3-, and 9-month follow-up. Multilevel models with a treatment-by-time interaction term were utilized to evaluate treatment effects and changes in GWI-related outcomes over time. Satisfaction was high, there were no adverse events, and over half the participants attended 75% or more sessions with no significant differences between groups. For pain interference, analyses revealed a significant quadratic effect of time with no differences between treatment groups. For general fatigue and a cognitive test of trail making, no significant effects were detected. For depressed mood, linear and quadratic time effects and the group x linear time interaction were significant indicating greater reductions for Tai Chi participants. For a verbal learning test, linear and quadratic time and the group x quadratic time interaction significantly predicted total recall with Tai Chi participants demonstrating more rapid initial improvements. Findings indicate that both Tai Chi and Wellness are feasible and acceptable. Both interventions may have a salutary impact on pain interference, depression, and verbal learning with some advantages for Tai Chi.

Tai Chi Movement Analysis Towards Depression Treatment Development: A Traditional Chinese Medicine and Biomechanical Approach

Tai Chi Movement Analysis Towards Depression Treatment Development: A Traditional Chinese Medicine and Biomechanical Approach

At least 150min per week of Tai chi practice improves sleep quality in the older people: evidence from a meta-analysis.

To conduct a meta-analysis to explore the optimal dosage of Tai chi exercise that positively influences the sleep quality of the older people. A literature search was conducted from 2004 to October 2024 in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, and Chinese databases (CNKI and Wanfang) for randomised controlled trials in Chinese and English on Tai chi improving sleep quality in the older people. Data extraction and verification were performed by two independent researchers. Additionally, a meta-analysis of the mean difference (MD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) was conducted using RevMan 5.4. A total of nine randomised controlled trials involving 1,166 older participants were included. Compared with the control group, Tai chi significantly reduced the total Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) scores in the older people [MD = - 1.53, 95% CI (- 2.18, - 0.89), p < 0.001], with heterogeneity results Q = 53.63, df = 12, and I2 of 78% (p < 0.001); Total weekly duration of Tai chi exercise: Less than 150min reduced PSQI scores, but the difference was not statistically significant [MD = - 1.47, 95% CI (- 3.89, 0.95), p = 0.23]. Between 150-300min significantly reduced PSQI scores [MD = - 1.54, 95% CI (- 2.00, - 1.08), p < 0.001]; Duration of Tai chi exercise programme: 8-12weeks significantly reduced PSQI scores [MD = - 1.93, 95% CI (- 2.60, - 1.25), p < 0.001]; 16-24weeks significantly reduced PSQI scores [MD = - 1.27, 95% CI (- 2.27, - 0.26), p = 0.01]; Single session duration of Tai chi exercise: 60min significantly reduced PSQI scores [MD = - 2.17, 95% CI (- 3.15, - 1.18), p < 0.001]; Less than 60min (25-45min) significantly reduced PSQI scores [MD = - 0.92, 95% CI (- 1.63, - 0.20), p = 0.01]. Older individuals engaging in at least 150min per week of Tai chi practice can improve sleep quality. Beyond this threshold, extending the duration of individual practice sessions or the exercise programme does not yield additional benefits for sleep quality.

Effects of Tai Chi and Qigong in Depressive and Anxiety Symptoms in Cancer Patients: An Overview of Systematic Reviews

Abstract Depressive and anxiety symptoms are prevalent among cancer patients, significantly impacting their quality of life and treatment adherence, which can lower survival rates. Addressing these symptoms with evidence-based interventions is crucial. Tai Chi and Qigong (TCQ) are popular complementary therapies that have shown potential in improving mental health in various populations, including cancer patients. However, systematic reviews (SRs) and meta-analyses have reported inconsistent findings regarding TCQ’s effectiveness in alleviating depressive and anxiety symptoms in cancer patients. An overview of these reviews can help synthesize outcomes, evaluate methodological quality, and clarify these discrepancies. The objective of this study was to identify and summarize the existing evidence regarding the effectiveness of TCQ in improving depressive and anxiety symptoms in cancer patients. Six electronic databases were searched from inception to July 2024. The study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The Assessing the Methodological Quality of Systematic Reviews 2 was used to assess the methodological quality of the included SRs. In total, 894 studies were retrieved and assessed. Of these, 10 SRs were included, of which 9 SRs reported depressive symptoms and 8 SRs anxiety symptoms. Of these SRs, 5 out of 9 (56%) demonstrated significant improvement in depressive symptoms for TCQ with standardized mean differences (SMDs) ranging from −0.27 to −0.70, while 6 out of 8 (75%) demonstrated significant improvement in anxiety symptoms with SMDs ranging from −0.29 to −0.71. For quality appraisal, 1 SR was rated as high confidence, 3 SRs as moderate confidence, 2 SRs low confidence, and 4 SRs critically low confidence. After excluding 4 SRs with critically low confidence, 4 out of 5 (80%) of SRs demonstrated a significant effect of TCQ in improving depressive symptoms with SMDs ranging from −0.32 to −0.70, and all 6 SRs demonstrated significant improvement in anxiety symptoms with SMDs ranging from −0.29 to −0.71. TCQ can be effective in alleviating depressive and anxiety symptoms in cancer patients. Healthcare providers should consider incorporating TCQ into cancer care. More randomized controlled trials on various cancer sites (e.g., female genitals, lungs, brain, skin, and pancreas), cancer stages (e.g., Stage IV), and non-Chinese populations with longer follow-ups should be conducted.