Chinese martial art helps keep arthritis sufferers on their feet

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.


The Cochrane Library contains high quality health care information, including Systematic Reviews from The Cochrane Collaboration. These bring together research on the effects of health care and are considered the gold standard for determining the relative effectiveness of different interventions. The Cochrane Collaboration (cochrane) is a UK registered international charity and the world's leading producer of systematic reviews, which form the building blocks of evidence-based medical decision-making.


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Contact: David Greenberg

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