Chinese martial art helps keep arthritis sufferers on their feet

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Chinese martial art helps keep arthritis sufferers on their feet

20 Jul 2004

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.