SYDNEY, Jun 17, 2009 (UPI via COMTEX) -- Researchers in Australia conducted a
systematic review of Tai Chi studies and found it produces positive effects in
those suffering from arthritis.
Tai Chi is a form of exercise regularly practiced in China for general health
purposes but has increasing popularity in North America and Australia. It is
usually incorporated into people's daily activities and preformed in a group,
but can also be practiced individually.
First author Amanda Hall of The George Institute for International Health at The
University of Sydney examined seven randomized controlled trials -- six that
studied people with chronic arthritis and one that looked at chronic tension
headaches.
The researchers termed the trials small and of low methodologic quality, but
they found the outcomes for improvement in level of tension and for satisfaction
with general health were statistically significant.
"This research should reassure people with musculoskeletal conditions such as
arthritis to seek exercise to relieve the pain," Hall said in a statement. "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."
The findings are published in the Arthritis & Rheumatism.
URL: www.upi.com
Copyright 2009 by United Press International