The effect of Tai Chi on health outcomes in patients with chronic conditions: a systematic review.
OBJECTIVE
To conduct a systematic review of reports on the physical and psychological effects of Tai Chi on various chronic medical conditions.


METHODS
Search of 11 computerized English and Chinese databases.


METHODS
Randomized controlled trials, nonrandomized controlled studies, and observational studies published in English or Chinese.


METHODS
Data were extracted for the study objective, population characteristics, study setting, type of Tai Chi intervention, study design, outcome assessment, duration of follow-up, and key results.


RESULTS
There were 9 randomized controlled trials, 23 nonrandomized controlled studies, and 15 observational studies in this review. Benefits were reported in balance and strength, cardiovascular and respiratory function, flexibility, immune system, symptoms of arthritis, muscular strength, and psychological effects.


CONCLUSIONS
Tai Chi appears to have physiological and psychosocial benefits and also appears to be safe and effective in promoting balance control, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness in older patients with chronic conditions. However, limitations or biases exist in most studies, and it is difficult to draw firm conclusions about the benefits reported. Most indications in which Tai Chi was applied lack a theoretical foundation concerning the mechanism of benefit. Well-designed studies are needed.
Center for Clinical Evidence Synthesis, Division of Clinical Care Research, Tufts-New England Medical Center, Boston, MA 02111, USA. Cwang@tufts-nemc.edu
Chenchen
C
Wang
Jean Paul
JP
Collet
Joseph
J
Lau
D001794:Blood Pressure; D002320:Cardiovascular Physiological Phenomena; D002908:Chronic Disease; D004703:Endocrine System / Q000502:physiology; D015444:Exercise / Q000502:physiology / Q000523:psychology; D006304:Health Status; D006801:Humans; D010101:Oxygen Consumption; D010807:Physical Endurance; D010809:Physical Fitness; D004856:Postural Balance; D026302:Tai Ji / Q000523:psychology; D016896:Treatment Outcome