Tai Chi For Knee Osteoarthritis
December 10th, 2009
Individuals with knee osteoarthritis who practice Tai Chi may improve physical function and experience less pain, according to research from Tufts University School of Medicine.
Tai Chi Chuan, or Tai Chi, is a Chinese martial art derived from Taoism that dates back to the 13th century. Tai Chi is the most prominent Chinese martial art of the internal style, which emphasizes breathing and the mental component of training. Tai Chi exercises consist of fluid, gentle, graceful movements that are slow in motion, making it appropriate for any age group.
The elderly population is most at risk for developing knee osteoarthritis, which causes pain, disability and functional limitations as well as a reduced quality of life. Knee osteoarthritis is one of the more common forms of arthritis, which results in wearing of joint cartilage.
Lead researcher Chenchen Wang, M.D. , and her team recruited 40 participants with knee osteoarthritis, average age of 65, who were in general good health. Of the participants, 20 practiced 60-minute sessions of Yang style Tai Chi twice weekly for 12 weeks.
The other 20 participants attended 60-minute sessions of health and nutrition education for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis for 12 weeks, combined with stretching exercises.
At the end of the 12-week study, the Tai Chi practitioners had a significant decrease in knee pain compared to those who attended the knee osteoarthritis education and stretching sessions. The Tai Chi practitioners also experienced improved self-efficacy and physical function.
“Tai Chi is a mind-body approach that appears to be an applicable treatment for older adults with knee osteoarthritis,” said Wang. Conventional exercise recommendations for knee osteoarthritis, which include flexibility, muscle conditioning, aerobic, and motion exercises, are similar in comparison to the components of Tai Chi practice.
Regular practice of Tai Chi can:
· Improve balance and decrease the risk of falls
· Increase muscle strength, coordination and flexibility
· Combat pain and stiffness
· Reduce insomnia
· Enhance overall wellness
In addition to Tai Chi, acupuncture can aid in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis. Acupuncture is most effective for individuals with knee osteoarthritis who experience moderate pain despite conventional medical therapy.
Acupuncture for knee osteoarthritis may be combined with Chinese herbal medicine to decrease swelling, stiffness and pain. Acupuncture can improve functional ability and reduce dependence on medications.
For information about acupuncture for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis call Dr. Richard Browne, Acupuncture Physician, at (305) 595-9500.
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