Tai Chi For Arthritis, Back Pain, and Other Chronic Pain Conditions
If you want to exercise but have limited mobility due to your pain condition, this could be the answer.
Jumping around at an aerobics class may not be an option if you have back pain, arthritis, or other condition that hurts when you move. Tai Chi is one exercise that is suitable, particularly for those with joint, neck or back pain.
It seems an ideal exercise for those with back pain as the movements are so gentle yet develop a strong core muscle group.
Research confirms what the Chinese have known for centuries, that regular practice has many health benefits. Those who practice it say it makes them feel wonderful.
Why Practice Tai Chi?
A good reason to practice tai chi is because its fun and makes you feel good. But here are some more detailed reasons. It has been shown that regular practice of Tai Chi produces these benefits.
- Increased flexibility - particularly in the often forgotten spine. Maintenance of flexibility in spinal joints is very important.
- Full range of motion in some joints
- Increased strength, particularly of the leg muscles
- Many people have reduced pain - particularly noticed in shoulders, back, legs and knees
- Increased vitality, energy and life
- Enhanced coordination, and improved fine motor skills.
Tai Chi has been found by many practitioners to provide pain relief, and research backs this up. This ancient Chinese exercise, called tai chi or QiGong, is also helpful for anyone who is dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, sleep problems, and many other physical, emotional, or mental challenges. Practicing these movements is very calming.
Research Shows The Benefits of Tai Chi
Just look at all the good things Tai Chi can do for you:
Improves Balance
According to a review in The Harvard Health Letter - July, 1997, tai chi... reduces stress hormones, reduces risk of falling (the leading cause of death by injury in older folks), and improves balance.
An Atlanta study of 200 people in their 70's found that 15 weeks of tai chi training cut their risk of falling nearly in half, and reduced their blood pressure as well.
Our balance naturally declines as we get older. Did you know that for the over 70s it is falling due to deteriorating balance that is the prime cause of loss of independence? So its really vital to do all you can to maintain your balance before you lose it, and Tai Chi can help with that.
Slows Ageing
Other studies on Tai Chi have shown it to have a role in slowing the aging process. ie it may keep you young for longer.
Safe Exercise For Arthritis Sufferers
Tai Chi is a safe alternative exercise for people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis (Kirstens et al. in The American Journal of Physical Medical Rehabilitation 1991)
Improves Cardio Vascular Health
A 1992 Australian study of 96 practitioners found that tai chi had the same effects on heart rate, blood pressure, and stress hormones as brisk walking.
Improves Breathing Problems
A John Hopkins publication (1999) "Deep breathing may improve fitness levels in people with chronic heart failure. Yoga-derived breathing training (as practiced in tai chi) may increase oxygen levels and ease breathing difficulties."
Stress Relief
Consumer Report Feb. 2000. "A routine that combines moderate exercise with meditation techniques, such as a concentration on breathing, may give a two for one reward for stress relief. Tai Chi and yoga are gentle, slow exercises that promote balance, flexibility, stretching and mental calm."
May Protect Against Shingles
a study published in October 2003 researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles reported that integrative exercise programs such as tai chi can have a direct, positive effect on the immune system in older adults and could help ward off outbreaks of shingles.
So How about getting a Tai Chi DVD or finding a Tai Chi class and starting your tai chi exercise as soon as possible?
Its fun too!
Tai Chi DVD Specially for Back PainMore information about exercise for pain control
