A new study has found that Tai Chi can help ease musculoskeletal pain.
The results of the first comprehensive analysis of Tai Chi suggest that it produces positive effects for improving pain and disability among arthritis patients, according to the study at The George Institute for International Health in Sydney, Australia.
The researchers are embarking on a new trial to determine whether people with chronic lower back pain can realize the same benefits.
Tai Chi is a versatile activity that can be incorporated easily into daily activities. Usually preformed in a group, Tai Chi also can be practiced individually, which differs from traditional exercise therapy approaches in clinic.
"This is the first robust evidence to support the beneficial effects of Tai Chi," said author Dr. Chris Maher at The George Institute. "Our study proves that Tai Chi relieves pain and disability among people with arthritis and shows a positive trend towards effects for overall physical health. We now want to see if these benefits are the same for people suffering from low back pain."
Musculoskeletal pain, such as that people with arthritis experience, places a severe burden on the patient and community and is recognized as an international health priority.
Another researcher, Amanda Hall, said, "This research should reassure people with musculoskeletal conditions such as arthritis to seek exercise to relieve the pain. The fact that Tai Chi is inexpensive, convenient, enjoyable and conveys other psychological and social benefits supports the use this type of intervention for pain conditions."
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