In another study published in the US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health, the effects of tai chi on pain balance, muscle strength, and perceived difficulties in physical functioning in older women with osteoarthritis was analysed.
The study noted: “Twelve forms of sun-style tai chi exercise have been developed specifically to reduce the symptoms and improve the physical functioning of arthritic patients, and this randomized study examined the changes in symptoms and physical characteristics in older women with osteoarthritis (OA) at the completion of a 12-week tai chi exercise program.”
The study concluded that older women with OA were able to safely perform the 12 forms of Sun-style tai chi exercise for 12 weeks, and this was effective in improving their arthritic symptoms, balance, and physical functioning.
A longitudinal study with a larger sample size is now needed to confirm the potential use of tai chi exercise in arthritis management.