Improving quality of life for people with chronic conditions: the example of t'ai chi and multiple sclerosis.
BACKGROUND
The greatest needs of people with chronic conditions are long-term care, maximized independence, and improved quality of life. With conventional medicine becoming increasingly expensive, depersonalized, and unable to adequately meet such needs, many with chronic conditions are seeking health promotion strategies to effectively manage their symptoms.


OBJECTIVE
An 8-week t'ai chi program was conducted to explore psychosocial and physical benefits for those with multiple sclerosis.


METHODS
Nonrandomized, noncontrolled pilot study.


METHODS
American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, San Francisco, Calif.


METHODS
19 patients with multiple sclerosis.


METHODS
T'ai chi.


METHODS
Walking speed (distance = 25 ft), hamstring flexibility, and psychosocial well-being as measured by the Medical Outcomes Study 36-item Short-form Health Survey.


RESULTS
Walking speed increased by 21% and hamstring flexibility increased by 28%. Patients experienced improvements in vitality, social functioning, mental health, and ability to carry out physical and emotional roles.


CONCLUSIONS
This pilot program was conducted entirely on a volunteer basis and led to the implementation of several additional t'ai chi classes for people with multiple sclerosis across the United States. T'ai chi and other health promotion programs offer help toward achieving the goals of increasing access to services, maximizing independence, and improving quality of life for people with chronic disabling conditions.
Husted
C
C
Center for the Study of Neurodegenerative Disorders, University of California, Santa Barbara 93106-5060, USA. husted@mambo.lscf.ucsb.edu
Pham
L
L
Hekking
A
A
Niederman
R
R
D002908:Chronic Disease; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D016139:Martial Arts; D009103:Multiple Sclerosis / Q000628:therapy*; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011788:Quality of Life; D016896:Treatment Outcome