Tai Chi For Neuropathy

November 28, 2007

TAI CHI FOR NEUROPATHY

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The Eastern art of tai chi combines relaxation and balance

techniques in a way that seems to be particularly beneficial to

people with neuropathic pain. Li Li, Ph.D., professor of kinesiology

at Louisiana State University, is conducting a study into the

benefits of tai chi for peripheral neuropathy patients. Since the

program began in 2004, hundreds of students practicing tai chi in a

modified form that accommodates peripheral neuropathy have shown

consistent, far greater levels of improvement than those who use

walking alone or low-impact weight training for exercise.

A primary symptom of peripheral neuropathy is a loss of sensation on

the soles of the feet, which is vital to maintaining balance. The

continued practice of tai chi helps in regaining one's balance and

preventing falls, according to Dr. Li, who says that he sees

improvements in sensation, flexibility, and overall health in his

patients in anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. So far, says

Dr. Li, most of the patients in his study have reported a

significant decrease in falls and increased confidence walking and

standing; in addition, many have been able to stop using walkers or

canes.

Olivia Whitten, 64, has been in Dr. Li's program since October 2006

and participates in three one-hour classes each week (more than the

average participant). Within a month, I began to feel an improvement

in my circulation and had more feeling in my extremities, says

Whitten, who has numbness in her feet and fingers. My family notices

that my balance is better. I used to be afraid to take long walks

with them because I couldn't keep up. That's not a problem anymore.

Today, the program is maxed out, with 75 participants who attend

weekly classes and another 200 on the waiting list. We're seeing

great things happening, says Dr. Li, who is currently working on

publishing the study results. Some people started the program unable

to stand, even with assistance, for more than five minutes. Today,

these same people have no trouble standing independently in the

shower or doing other routine things most of us take for granted.

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