That’s the conclusion by researchers at Tufts Medical Center who presented their research at the American College of Rheumatology Annual Scientific Meeting.

First, the details.

• 40 patients (mostly elderly and obese) participated.
• They had knee osteoarthritis for approximately 10 years.
• They were randomly assigned to tai chi (10 modified forms from the classical Yang style) or conventional stretching and wellness education.
• Treatments were twice-weekly for 60 minutes over 12 weeks.
• Patients were evaluated using a battery of tools at the beginning and end of the study, and at weeks 24 and 48.

And, the results.

• 85% of those in the tai chi group and 89% in the stretching and wellness group attended all the sessions.
• The tai chi group had significantly greater improvements in pain, physical function, depression, self-rated effectiveness, and health status.
• Patients who continued participating in tai chi after 12 weeks reported long-lasting benefits in pain and function.

The bottom line?
Dr. Chenchen Wang concluded, “Tai chi mind-body exercise appears to provide an important approach for self-care and self-management for knee OA.”

This YouTube video shows a simplified Yang style. I’m impressed by the amount of movement and balancing it requires on flexed knees. Open a separate window and compare it to the classical Yang style tai chi here.

10/27/08 19:17 JR