Chinese martial art helps keep arthritis sufferers on their feet

Main Category: Arthritis / Rheumatology
Article Date: 20 Jul 2004 - 15:00 PDT


The traditional Chinese martial art of Tai Chi has been said to produce a variety of health benefits for older adults. These include stress reduction, improved posture and balance and lower extremity strength. A new review of research, however, suggests another potential benefit of performing Tai Chi.

Four comparative studies measured improvements of ambulatory adults suffering from rheumatoid arthritis in 8-10 week Tai Chi programmes. Although, in three studies, no differences were found, in one small study, the most notable results were a significantly increased range of motion in the ankle, hip and knee and increased enjoyment of exercise.

No detrimental effects were reported. Preserving range of motion in affected joints is particularly important for rheumatoid arthritis sufferers to maintain functionality.

Review title: Tai Chi for treating rheumatoid arthritis
Reviewers: Han A, Robinson V, Judd M, Taixiang W, Wells G and Tugwell P.

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