For older adults with osteoarthritis of the knee, taking up tai chi may help lessen pain and boost physical functioning, according to a recent study. A gentle Chinese martial art, tai chi involves slow, rhythmic movements that help induce relaxation and improve balance, strength, and flexibility.
For the study, 20 participants (average age: 65) took part in a one-hour tai chi session twice weekly for 12 weeks. The session included 10 minutes each of self-massage and breathing exercises in addition to tai chi movement.
Meanwhile, 20 other participants attended twice-weekly hour-long classes that included instruction on diet, nutrition, and arthritis therapies, as well as 20 minutes of stretching exercises.
At the study's end, participants in the tai chi group showed a significantly greater decrease in knee pain than those who didn't practice tai chi. The tai chi sessions also appeared to improve physical functioning and health status, as well as protect against depression.
