A trend of Tai Chi in osteoporosis research: A bibliometric analysis.

BACKGROUND: Tai chi has been used to treat different forms of osteoporosis and increase bone density without the use of pharmaceuticals. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to use bibliometric analysis to methodically examine trends and hotspots of tai chi treatment for osteoporosis in order to generate references for further investigation. METHODS: The articles on Tai Chi to treat osteoporosis was obtained from China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wan Fang, Web of Science (WOS) and PubMed between inception and November 8,2023. The annual publication volume, authors, institutions, and keywords, along with co-citation, clustering, and burst analysis, were analyzed using CiteSpace. RESULTS: Totally, 328 publications were included. The number of annual publications has been rising rapidly in recent years. Beijing University of Chinese Medicine and Shanghai University of Sport are two of the best universities for Tai Chi treatment in osteoporosis. This area of research is dominated by Zhou, Y; Yu, DH; Pence, BC and Qin,L. Core authors and core institutions having a relatively low level of collaboration indicates that there may be limited interaction and cooperation between these key players in the field. China had the highest volume of publications, followed by the United States. Furthermore, the majority of the study subjects and influence mechanism are the focus of current research in this field. CONCLUSION: Tai Chi in osteoporosis research field is in a stage of stable development. Universities and higher education institutions are the leading institutions in this field. China and the United States emerging as high productivity nations. The study of Tai Chi in osteoporosis not only focuses on the applicable population, effects and intervention methods, but also gradually shifts to the mechanism study such as "secretion of beneficial factors", "physical exercise load" and "oxidative stress status".

Comparative analysis of biomechanical characteristics between the new Tai Chi elastic band exercise for opening and closing movement and elastic band resistance training for the reverse fly movement.

Background: The objective of this study was to compare and analyze the representative opening and closing movement of Tai Chi elastic band exercise with the reverse fly movement of elastic band resistance training. The aim was to explore the biomechanical differences between the two exercises and provide theoretical support for the application of Tai Chi elastic band exercise in health intervention. Methods: A total of 26 male participants were recruited and randomly divided into two groups in a 1:1 ratio. There were 13 participants in each Tai Chi elastic band exercise group and elastic band resistance training group. Both groups of participants used an elastic band to perform movement in the experiment. Experimental data were collected using the Vicon infrared motion capture system and Delsys surface EMG system. The AnyBody software was utilized to simulate the creation of a musculoskeletal model for both exercises. Result: The study found that the Tai Chi elastic band exercise group exhibited smaller horizontal abduction angle and flexion angle of the shoulder joint, as well as normalized RMS of the anterior deltoid and triceps brachii, compared to the elastic band resistance training group (P < 0.01); the Tai Chi elastic band exercise group exhibited greater elbow flexion angle, elbow flexion torque, and muscle strength of the infraspinatus, coracobrachialis, biceps brachii, brachialis and brachioradialis, compared to the elastic band resistance training group (P < 0.01); the Tai Chi elastic band exercise group exhibited smaller horizontal abduction angular velocity of the shoulder joint and a lower normalized RMS of the posterior deltoid, compared to the elastic band resistance training group (P < 0.05). Conclusion: (1) The opening and closing movement of Tai Chi elastic band exercise is characterized by a large elbow flexion angle, a small shoulder joint horizontal angle and flexion angle, and a slow and uniform speed of movement. The reverse fly movement of elastic band resistance training is characterized by a large horizontal abduction angle of the shoulder joint, a large flexion angle of the shoulder joint, a small flexion angle of the elbow joint, and a fast and uneven speed. (2) The opening and closing movement exerts a greater torque on the elbow flexion, while the reverse fly movement exerts a greater torque on the shoulder joint horizontal abduction and external rotation. (3) The opening and closing movement provide greater stimulation to the infraspinatus, coracobrachialis, and elbow flexor, while the reverse fly movement provides greater stimulation to the posterior deltoid, anterior deltoid, subscapularis, and elbow extensor. In summary, the variation in joint angle, joint angular velocity, and hand position could be the factor contributing to the differences in joint torque and muscle activity between the opening and closing movement of Tai Chi elastic band exercise and the reverse fly movement of elastic band resistance training.

Differences in brain connectivity between older adults practicing Tai Chi and Water Aerobics: a case-control study.

Background: This study aimed to investigate the neural mechanisms that differentiate mind-body practices from aerobic physical activities and elucidate their effects on cognition and healthy aging. We examined functional brain connectivity in older adults (age > 60) without pre-existing uncontrolled chronic diseases, comparing Tai Chi with Water Aerobics practitioners. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional, case-control fMRI study involving two strictly matched groups (n = 32) based on gender, age, education, and years of practice. Seed-to-voxel analysis was performed using the Salience, and Frontoparietal Networks as seed regions in Stroop Word-Color and N-Back tasks and Resting State. Results: During Resting State condition and using Salience network as a seed, Tai Chi group exhibited a stronger correlation between Anterior Cingulate Cortex and Insular Cortex areas (regions related to interoceptive awareness, cognitive control and motor organization of subjective aspects of experience). In N-Back task and using Salience network as seed, Tai Chi group showed increased correlation between Left Supramarginal Gyrus and various cerebellar regions (related to memory, attention, cognitive processing, sensorimotor control and cognitive flexibility). In Stroop task, using Salience network as seed, Tai Chi group showed enhanced correlation between Left Rostral Prefrontal Cortex and Right Occipital Pole, and Right Lateral Occipital Cortex (areas associated with sustained attention, prospective memory, mediate attention between external stimuli and internal intention). Additionally, in Stroop task, using Frontoparietal network as seed, Water Aerobics group exhibited a stronger correlation between Left Posterior Parietal Lobe (specialized in word meaning, representing motor actions, motor planning directed to objects, and general perception) and different cerebellar regions (linked to object mirroring). Conclusion: Our study provides evidence of differences in functional connectivity between older adults who have received training in a mind-body practice (Tai Chi) or in an aerobic physical activity (Water Aerobics) when performing attentional and working memory tasks, as well as during resting state.

Current Evidence of the Application of Music in Tai Chi Exercise: Scoping Review.

BACKGROUND: Music has frequently been used in movement exercises to enhance health benefits. However, scientific evidence regarding the application of music to Tai Chi practice is limited. OBJECTIVE: This scoping review aims to understand how music has been used in Tai Chi practice and whether music could be applied to Tai Chi practice to help optimize its benefits. METHODS: PubMed, CINAHL, CNKI, and Weipu databases were searched. We included studies that compare Tai Chi practice experience or health outcomes between individuals practicing Tai Chi with music and those practicing Tai Chi without music. Studies published through September 2022 were identified. Two researchers (YD and YH) independently performed study selection and data extraction. Thematic analysis was used to summarize and categorize the findings of the included studies. RESULTS: Seven studies were included in this review. All 7 included studies are experimental studies. Practicing Tai Chi with music might lead to positive perceptions of Tai Chi practice (eg, motivation, concentration, enjoyment, compliance, and performance) and higher evaluations of Tai Chi instructional quality, especially for Tai Chi beginners. The effects of incorporating music into Tai Chi practice on health outcomes are inconclusive due to the heterogeneities of the sample size, and the intervention components, lengths, and frequencies of the included studies. CONCLUSIONS: Applying music to Tai Chi practice may result in positive Tai Chi practice experience and adherence, particularly for beginners, which could help improve the dissemination and implementation of Tai Chi interventions for public health. However, whether applying music to Tai Chi practice leads to synergetic effects on health outcomes needs further investigation.

The effects of mindfulness enhanced Tai Chi Chuan training on mental and physical health among beginners: a randomized controlled trial.

Introduction: Tai Chi Chuan (TCC) is a traditional Chinese mind-body exercise widely adopted in Chinese communities and colleges. However, the mindful essence of TCC is rarely emphasized during popularization. This makes it difficult for beginners to benefit from it. The present study aimed to examine the effects of a Mindfulness-enhanced Tai Chi Chuan (MTCC) intervention, which enhances mindfulness components embedded within TCC, on mental and physical health among beginners. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 119 healthy college students new to Tai Chi Chuan training. Participants were assigned to either the MTCC group or the TCC group. Both interventions consisted of 10 weekly 90-min training sessions, with the MTCC group emphasizing and enhancing mindfulness components. Outcome measures included mindfulness, depression, anxiety, stress, and physical fitness, assessed at baseline and post-intervention. Results: The results showed that the MTCC group had significantly greater improvements than the TCC group in mindfulness, anxiety, stress, and health-and skill-related physical fitness. There were no significant differences between the two groups in depression. Conclusion: The findings suggest that compared to TCC, MTCC can effectively promote individuals' physical fitness and provide additional benefits to mental well-being. MTCC can be recommended as an accessible and beneficial intervention for beginners to improve mental health and strengthen their bodies. Clinical review registration: https://www.chictr.org.cn/, identifier ChiCTR2200058175.

Effects of traditional Chinese exercises on physical and psychological health of patients with multiple sclerosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Physical exercise improves physical and psychological health. However, information on the quantitative impact of Traditional Chinese Exercise (TCE) on physical and psychological health remains limited. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to quantitatively explore the effects of TCE on the physical and psychological health of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). METHODS: A comprehensive search was conducted across seven electronic databases (PubMed, SCOPUS, CINAHL, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Wanfang) from their inception to March 7, 2024 using the terms, Taiji, Tai Chi, Tai Chi Chuan, Qigong, Baduanjin, Wuqinxi, Yijinjing, multiple sclerosis, and disseminated sclerosis. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and non-RCTs reporting the effects of TCE on physical function or psychological health outcomes in MS patients were included. A random-effects model and 95 % confidence intervals (95 % CI) were used to compute the effect sizes. RESULTS: Eleven studies, including 461 subjects with MS, were included in this meta-analysis. TCE significantly increased balance (d = 0.88, 95 % CI [0.45, 1.31], p < 0.001, I2 = 39.26 %), activities of daily living (d = 1.17, 95 % CI [0.30, 2.04], p < 0.001, I2 = 89.15 %), Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale (MSIS) scores (d = 0.53, 95 % CI [0.12, 0.93], p = 0.01, I2 = 0 %), depression (d = 0.66, 95 % CI [0.003, 1.32], p = 0.049, I2 = 62.97 %), and Activities-Specific Balance Confidence (ABC) scores (d = 1.30, 95 % CI [0.41, 2.18], p < 0.001, I2 = 0 %) compared with control conditions. CONCLUSIONS: This meta-analysis suggests the efficacy of TCE in improving balance, activities of daily living, MSIS scores, depression, and ABC scores in MS patients. However, further high-quality research is warranted to investigate these findings.

The influence of traditional Chinese exercise on brain function compared with other sports: A meta-analysis on functional neuroimaging studies.

Traditional Chinese Exercise (TCE) has been shown to improve quality of life, and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is a highly used method for investigating its mechanism. However, there is currently a lack of systematic reviews and meta-analyses focusing on TCE-related brain changes. This study aims to fill this gap by conducting a meta-analysis on brain changes of TCE with fMRI technology. We searched relevant studies published until February 2024. Independent researchers conducted literature screening, quality assessment, and clinical and neuroimaging data extraction. Focis were filtered from eligible studies, and meta-analysis was performed using seed-based d mapping. Twenty-three studies involving 1182 participants were included in this study. The result found that longitudinal TCE increased brain activity in the left anterior cingulate gyri, right fusiform gyrus, right middle temporal gyrus, left middle occipital gyrus and left frontal superior compared with other exercises or healthcare. Subgroup analysis showed that the brain activity in the right superior frontal gyrus dorsolateral; right cortico-spinal projections; corpus callosum; right inferior network; right gyrus rectus; left middle occipital gyrus were decreased after TCE compared to other exercise among healthy participants. The right median cingulate gyri was increased after Baduanjin (one of the TCE) compared to other exercise; the left precentral gyrus activity was increased after Tai chi chuan (TCC) practice compared to other exercise. The brain activity in the right insula, right supplementary motor area, and left anterior thalamic were significantly increased after long-time TCC exercise. TCE effectively improved the cognitive level of the subjects. Among them, the MoCA score increased, but Memory Quotient was not improved. Research results indicate that TCE have specific neuromodulatory effects, and different TCE have different neuromodulatory patterns.

The influence of different intensity of Tan Tui exercises on the posture control of students in the Tai Chi Elective Course: protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Tai Chi (TC) holds a unique and valued place in promoting the physical and mental health of college students. Its significance is underscored by its incorporation as a compulsory physical education course in every university in China. TC, with its rich tradition, places a strong emphasis on posture control as a core sports ability. However, the students in Tai Chi Elective Course (TCEC) have very poor posture control ability. This study protocol investigates the potential of Tan Tui (TT) to address these issues, as TT is a fundamental skill for beginners of traditional Chinese martial arts and has a track record of enhancing lower limb strength and balance, making it a promising choice for improving posture control in TCEC. METHODS/DESIGN: To investigate the impact of different intensities of TT exercises on posture control in TCEC students, we have designed a randomized, double-blind, parallel-controlled trial. Seventy-six students in the TCEC will be randomly divided into low-intensity Tan Tui (LTT), medium-intensity Tan Tui (MTT), and high-intensity Tan Tui exercises group (HTT) and control group (CON), each with 19 people. The LTT group, MTT group, and HTT group will be given different intensity of TT exercises, and the CON group will be given regular TCEC. The intervention period will be 6 weeks (2 times a week, 20 min each time). At baseline (before), 4 weeks of intervention (middle), and 6 weeks of intervention (after), the Unipedal Stance Test (UST), the Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT), 60°/s angular velocity knee joint flexion and extension relative peak torque (RPT), and knee joint position perception (KJPP) will be evaluated. DISCUSSION: This is the first randomized controlled trial protocol from the perspective of training intensity to evaluate the effect of different intensity of TT exercises on posture control of students in TCEC. Should our research reveal a significant intervention effect, the results will offer preliminary, higher-quality evidence supporting the positive impact of varying intensities of Tan Tui exercises on posture control in TCEC students. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2000039109. Registered on October 17, 2020.

Impact of a Precision Intervention for Vascular Health in Middle-Aged and Older Postmenopausal Women Using Polar Heart Rate Sensors: A 24-Week RCT Study Based on the New Compilation of Tai Chi (Bafa Wubu).

(1) Background: This study utilized a 24-week intervention incorporating heart rate sensors for real-time monitoring of intervention training, aiming to comprehensively assess the effects of Tai Chi on vascular endothelial function, atherosclerosis progression, and lipid metabolism. The insights gained may inform personalized non-pharmacological interventions to enhance the management of cardiovascular health in this population to provide sustainable benefits and improve quality of life. (2) Methods: Forty postmenopausal middle-aged and elderly women were randomly assigned to an exercise or control group. The exercise group underwent a 24-week Tai Chi (BaFa WuBu) training intervention with real-time heart rate monitoring using Polar sensors. Pre- and post-intervention assessments included body composition, blood pressure, vascularity, and blood parameters measured with the Inbody 720, Vascular Endothelial Function Detector, and Arteriosclerosis. Data were analyzed using SPSS 26.0 and mixed-design ANOVA to assess the effects of time, group, and their interactions on study outcomes. (3) Results: After training through 24 weeks of Tai Chi (BaFa WuBu) intervention, compared with the control group, systolic blood pressure in the exercise group was significantly lower (p < 0.05), and the difference between left and right arm pulse pressure, left and right ankle mean arterial pressure, left and right side baPWV, left and right side ABI, TC, TG, LDL, and blood pressure viscosity were all very significantly lower (p < 0.01), and the diastolic blood pressure was significantly higher (p < 0.05). Compared with baseline values in the exercise group, systolic blood pressure, right and left arm pulse pressure difference, right and left ankle mean arterial pressure, right and left side baPWV, right and left side ABI, TC, TG, LDL, and blood pressure viscosity decreased very significantly (p < 0.01) and diastolic blood pressure and FMD increased very significantly (p < 0.01) in the exercise group after the intervention. (4) Conclusions: In our study, a 24-week Tai Chi (BaFa WuBu) program significantly improved vascular health in middle-aged and older postmenopausal women. This simplified Tai Chi form is gentle and effective, ideal for older adults. Regular practice led to reduced vascular obstruction, improved lipid metabolism, and enhanced vascular endothelial function, crucial for preventing vascular diseases. The real-time heart rate sensors used were pivotal, enabling precise monitoring and adjustment of exercise intensity, thereby enhancing the study's scientific rigor and supporting Tai Chi (BaFa WuBu) as a beneficial therapeutic exercise.

Key Components of Qigong for People With Multiple Sclerosis: A Survey of Clinicians, Researchers, and Instructors.

Background: Preliminary evidence suggests that Qigong (QG), a mind-body therapy, may help address symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS), but the heterogeneity of QG content and delivery may affect its feasibility, acceptability, and efficacy. Objective: To survey researchers, clinicians, and QG instructors with experience working with people with MS to identify key components of MS-specific QG guidelines and protocols. Methods: We conducted an online survey to identify QG forms and movements considered helpful for MS, reasons for selection, characteristics of effective learning environments, and recommended dosage and frequency of practice. Quantitative data were analyzed using summary statistics. Qualitative data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Results: Forty-seven experts, including QG instructors, clinicians, and QG and MS researchers, completed the survey. Respondents had a mean (SD) of 20 (11) years of QG teaching experience, 26 (12) years of clinical practice, 24 (9) years of QG research experience, 13 (5) years of MS research experience, and worked with at least 3 (2) people with MS. Approximately 125 QG forms/movements were recommended. Some forms were specifically recommended to address MS symptoms (e.g., emotional regulation, balance and coordination, muscle strength and flexibility, immune regulation, and circulation). Some respondents felt that any QG form could be beneficial if basic principles were met (e.g., intentional movement, posture, focused awareness, rhythmic breathing/movement, and a relaxed mind and body). Instructor qualities included the ability to convey information clearly, being caring and compassionate, proficient in QG, and having basic knowledge of MS. To promote confidence in learning QG, recommendations included having simple, easy-to-learn movements with modifications based on physical ability. We provide a sample protocol based on these recommendations. Conclusions: This study provides expert guidance for developing a QG protocol for an MS population, including content and delivery recommendations.

Tai Chi Practice Buffers Aging Effects in Functional Brain Connectivity.

Tai Chi (TC) practice has been shown to improve both cognitive and physical function in older adults. However, the neural mechanisms underlying the benefits of TC remain unclear. Our primary aims are to explore whether distinct age-related and TC-practice-related relationships can be identified with respect to either temporal or spatial (within/between-network connectivity) differences. This cross-sectional study examined recurrent neural network dynamics, employing an adaptive, data-driven thresholding approach to source-localized resting-state EEG data in order to identify meaningful connections across time-varying graphs, using both temporal and spatial features derived from a hidden Markov model (HMM). Mann-Whitney U tests assessed between-group differences in temporal and spatial features by age and TC practice using either healthy younger adult controls (YACs, n = 15), healthy older adult controls (OACs, n = 15), or Tai Chi older adult practitioners (TCOAs, n = 15). Our results showed that aging is associated with decreased within-network and between-network functional connectivity (FC) across most brain networks. Conversely, TC practice appears to mitigate these age-related declines, showing increased FC within and between networks in older adults who practice TC compared to non-practicing older adults. These findings suggest that TC practice may abate age-related declines in neural network efficiency and stability, highlighting its potential as a non-pharmacological intervention for promoting healthy brain aging. This study furthers the triple-network model, showing that a balancing and reorientation of attention might be engaged not only through higher-order and top-down mechanisms (i.e., FPN/DAN) but also via the coupling of bottom-up, sensory-motor (i.e., SMN/VIN) networks.

Tai Chi for balance and postural control in people with peripheral neuropathy: A scoping review.

BACKGROUND: Peripheral neuropathy can affect balance and increase fall risk. Tai Chi is known to activate neuromuscular systems and may help improve balance and postural control. We conducted a scoping review of clinical studies that evaluated the impact of Tai Chi on balance and related neurobiological outcomes among individuals with peripheral neuropathy. METHODS: We systematically searched three databases from inception to December 19, 2023 and identified 11 eligible clinical studies. We extracted trial information from each study and performed a qualitative study features analysis to summarize the clinical evidence and neurobiological mechanisms of Tai Chi in regulating balance among people with peripheral neuropathy. RESULTS: We found that among 508 participants with clinical peripheral neuropathy, Tai Chi significantly improved single leg stance, 6-min walk, timed up-and-go tests, and gait speed when measured pre- and post-exercise. However, the differences between Tai Chi and sham exercise control that involved active calisthenics and stretching exercises were not statistically significant. Studies that used quantitative sensory testing showed that Tai Chi was associated with significant increases in plantar vibration and tactile sensitivity. The effect of Tai Chi on postural control varied depending on plantar sensory loss status, and results on muscle strength remained mixed. Other neurobiological effects involve strengthening muscle performance and proprioception and consolidating cognitive awareness of walking strategy and practical behavioral techniques. CONCLUSIONS: The findings indicated that Tai Chi may enhance balance, postural control, and gait speed in patients with peripheral neuropathy, possibly through sensory restoration, although further research is needed to confirm this. Whether Tai Chi improves muscle strength or other gait health parameters is inconclusive. Rigorous randomized clinical trials should be conducted to determine the effect of Tai Chi on balance in this population by measuring functional balance and quantitative sensory outcomes.

Association of Tai Chi and Square Dance with Cognitive Function in Chinese Older Adults.

OBJECTIVE: This study explores the association of Tai Chi and square dance with cognitive function and compares the effects of the two fitness programs on cognitive function in Chinese older adults. METHODS: A total of 1732 older people (aged 60 years and over) met the inclusion criteria from the 2018 Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey. Based on the frequency of participating in Tai Chi and square dance, older adults were divided into three groups: a Tai Chi group (n = 234), a square dance group (n = 345), and a control group (n = 1153). Cognitive function was measured using a modified Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Participation in Tai Chi or square dance was investigated by asking the subjects to report how often they participated in the fitness programs. RESULTS: Older adults in both the Tai Chi group and the square dance group had higher scores in all MMSE items, including orientation, registration, attention and calculation, recall, and language, compared to those in the control group. But there were no significant differences in any MMSE items between the Tai Chi group and the square dance group. Multiple regression analysis showed that participating in Tai Chi or square dance, age, educational level, and sex can predict cognitive function in older people. CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that participating in Tai Chi and square dance are associated with better cognitive function, and Tai Chi and square dance have similar effects on cognitive function in the Chinese older population.

Integration of tai chi and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation for sleep disturbances in older adults: A pilot randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: The arousal state has been demonstrated to be involved in the fundamental pathophysiological mechanism of sleep disturbances. Tai chi (TC) and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) have been documented to alleviate sleep disturbances by interfering with different arousal components. It is reasonable to assume that combining TC and rTMS could induce synergistic and longer-lasting benefits for sleep disturbances. METHODS: Thirty-eight older community-dwelling people were randomly assigned to one of three groups: TC plus rTMS (n = 12), TC alone (n = 13), and treat-as-usual (TAU) (n = 13). The interventions were conducted three times per week for 4 weeks for the two intervention groups. The primary outcome was the insomnia severity, while the secondary outcomes were the actigraphy-assessed sleep patterns, use of hypnotic medications, mood states, and quality of life. The mediator outcomes included self-reported somatic arousal and cognitive arousal as well as electroencephalogram (EEG)-assessed cortical arousal. The assessments were conducted at baseline (T0), post-intervention (T1), and 3-month follow-up (T2). RESULTS: Significant improvements in the insomnia severity were observed in the TC plus rTMS group compared with the TAU group at T1 (Cohen's d = 1.62, p = 0.003) and T2 (Cohen's d = 1.97, p < 0.001). In contrast, significant improvements in the TC alone group were found only at T2 (Cohen's d = 1.03, p = 0.010) when compared with the TAU group. Significant interaction effects were noted on the actigraphy-assessed sleep efficiency (p = 0.015) and total sleep time (p = 0.004), depression (p = 0.003) and stress scores (p = 0.002), and mental function in relation to quality of life (p = 0.042). However, none of the mediators elucidated how combining TC and rTMS could improve the insomnia severity. CONCLUSION: The research findings are expected to guide further clinical practice in the management of sleep disturbances among older adults using various interventions. Future studies are needed to unravel the underlying mechanism and optimize the protocol to maximize the therapeutic benefits.

Efficacy of Tai Chi exercise in patients with hypertension: systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: An estimated 1.28 billion adults aged 30-79 years worldwide have hypertension, most (two-thirds) living in low- and middle-income countries. Pharmachological approaches have side effect, prompting exploration of Non-pharmacological approaches, like Tai Chi. Although early evidence suggests a potential favourable benefit with Tai Chi, it remains unclear whether the method can significantly reduced SBP and DBP. We aimed to assess by a systematic review and meta-analysis the effectiveness of Tai Chi in alleviating SBP and DBP on hypertension patients. METHODS: Our study adhered to the PRISMA method and was registered in PROSPERO under the code CRD42024496192. The search was carried out in the PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and the Cochrane Library databases in December 2023. Five randomized controlled trials were included (a total of 568 patients). Risk of bias was employed to assess the quality of individual studies, and a random-effects model was utilized to examine the overall effect. RESULTS: The results showed that Tai Chi, when compared to routine care, had a statistically significant impact on SBP ((MD = 5.49, 95 % CI: 3.44 to 7.54, p = 0.001), with a heterogeneity I2 = 54%. Tai Chi did not show a significant difference in terms of DBP when compared to standard care (MD =3.18, 95 % CI: 1.89 to -4.48, p = 0.31). The included trials exhibited small sample sizes, substantial heterogeneity. CONCLUSIONS: Tai Chi effectively lowers SBP levels in hypertension patients, however, did not show a statistically significant difference on DBP.

Qualitative Insights Regarding the Use of Tai Chi for Pain Management Among Adults With HIV.

Background: Approximately one-half of all adults with HIV experience chronic pain. Needed are nonpharmacological approaches to improve pain management in this population. Methods: For this study, we conducted in-depth qualitative interviews (n = 20) with thirteen adults with HIV and 7 HIV care providers regarding their perceptions of Tai Chi for chronic pain management. The interviews were audio recorded, transcribed, double-coded, and analyzed using applied thematic analysis. Results: HIV patients had limited prior exposure to Tai Chi and had not previously considered this practice for pain management. However, after viewing a brief video demonstration of Tai Chi, patients recognized potential benefits, including relaxation, stress reduction, and pain lessening. Patients were surprised by the gentle nature of Tai Chi and expressed enthusiasm to learn more about Tai Chi. HIV healthcare providers similarly had limited knowledge of Tai Chi for pain management. HIV care providers shared several helpful insights on the potential implementation of Tai Chi with this population. Conclusions: Adults with HIV and healthcare providers were optimistic that Tai Chi would reduce stress and ease chronic pain. These data suggest that Tai Chi would be of interest to HIV patients and care providers as a novel pain management strategy.

Effect of Long-Term Tai Chi Therapy on the Immune-Inflammatory Pathway in Patients with Schizophrenia with Antipsychotic-Stabilized.

The primary objective of this study was to explore the influence of prolonged (24 weeks) supplementary Tai Chi therapy on cognitive capabilities and immune-inflammatory pathways in subjects diagnosed with schizophrenia. A total of 90 individuals who have been clinically diagnosed with schizophrenia were assigned to two treatment groups, namely the Tai Chi treatment (TT) group and the routine treatment (RT) group. Following a 24-week duration of intervention, the data obtained from 32 patients in the TT group and 30 patients in the RT group were meticulously analyzed. At the commencement of the investigation and upon completion of the 24-week intervention, blood samples were gathered, and clinical evaluations were executed. In plasma, the identification of nine cytokines (IL-10, IFN-γ, IL-5, GM-CSF, TNF-α, IL-13, IL-4, IL-2, and IL-12) was conducted using the multiple primer suspension chip method. The clinical evaluations encompassed CGI, WHOQUOL-BREF, SOFS, PSS, BPRS, SAPS, SANS, and RBANS. In comparison to the RT group, the patients in the TT group demonstrated decreased levels of TNF-α and IL-5 (P < 0.05). Moreover, they encountered more pronounced advancements in SAPS, SANS, PSS, SOFS, and RBANS scores (P < 0.05). Additionally, a positive connection was detected between the plasma TNF-α level in the TT group and both the SANS score and the SPFS score (P < 0.05). Tai Chi has been shown to improve clinical symptoms in patients with schizophrenia as an add-on therapy, potentially through its effects on immunomodulatory pathways.

Effect of Tai Chi exercise on bone health and fall prevention in postmenopausal women: a meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: The bone status of postmenopausal women is worsening. In fact, postmenopausal period is the high incidence stage of osteoporosis and falls. Notably, a recent study has pointed out that exercise can improve bone health in postmenopausal women. However, the effect of Tai Chi exercise on postmenopausal women is controversial. Therefore, a meta-analysis was designed to analyze the effect of Tai Chi exercise on bone health and fall prevention in postmenopausal women. METHODS: The researches on Tai Chi improving the bone health of postmenopausal women before August 31, 2023 were collected from Chinese and English databases, such as PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science, etc. The risk of bias of the included studies was assessed using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials. Besides, R software 4.3.1 was employed to analyze the effect sizes in the meta-analysis to summarize the impact of Tai Chi on vertebral bone mineral density, serum calcium, clinical balance scores, the number of falls, total falls, and health status scores in postmenopausal women. RESULTS: There were 12 studies eventually included in this meta-analysis. A total of 1,272 postmenopausal women were involved, including 628 in the experimental group (intervention with Tai Chi exercise) and 644 in the control group (without any intervention). Briefly, postmenopausal women practicing Tai Chi presented a significant increase in vertebral bone density [standardized mean difference (SMD) = 0.37, 95% confidence interval (CI) (0.04-0.71), P = 0.03] and health status score [SMD = 0.25, 95% CI (0.01-0.49), P = 0.04]. In contrast, there were no significant differences for postmenopausal women between the two groups in terms of serum calcium [SMD = -0.01, 95% CI (-0.39, 0.36), P = 0.77], clinical balance [SMD = 0.17, 95% CI (-0.01, 0.46), P = 0.23], number of falls [SMD = -0.61, 95% CI (-1.24, 0.02), P = 0.06] and total falls [odds ratio = 0.35, 95% CI (0.11-1.12), P = 0.07]. CONCLUSION: Tai Chi exercise can improve the bone mineral density of postmenopausal women, thereby maintaining bone health. Hence, Tai Chi exercise is necessary to prevent osteoporosis.

Integrating Chiropractic Care and Tai Chi Training for the Treatment of Chronic Nonspecific Neck Pain in Nurses: A Single-Arm Mixed-Methods Pilot Trial.

Objectives: Chronic nonspecific neck pain (CNNP) is prevalent among health care workers, with particularly high rates among nurses. Nurses experiencing CNNP often report decreased job satisfaction, increased absenteeism, and reduced productivity. In recent years, nonpharmacologic approaches have gained attention as effective treatments for the management of CNNP, with exercise and manual therapies representing two of the most common. Early evidence shows that multimodal treatments may be more effective than unimodal strategies. The purpose of this current study was to assess the feasibility and observe the clinical outcomes of combined multimodal chiropractic care (MCC) and Tai Chi (TC) for CNNP in nurses. Methods: A single-arm mixed-methods pilot trial was conducted including 16 weeks of MCC and TC in nurses with self-reported CNNP. Feasibility outcomes were recruitment, retention, and adherence to the interventions. Clinical outcomes of interest included neck pain and related disabilities. Secondary outcomes of interest were functional, affective, and work-related performance. Qualitative interviews were also conducted. Results: Of the 59 screened, 36 met the eligibility criteria, and 21 were enrolled. The retention rate was 71.4%, and adherence rates were 85.3% for MCC and 62.5% for TC classes. Multiple pain and disability-related outcomes exhibited modest improvement from baseline to 16-week follow-up. Qualitative analysis identified six emergent themes: (1) neck pain being an inherent part of nursing, (2) nurses push through their pain, (3) MCC relieves pain and is instructive for preventing pain, (4) TC provides overall relaxation, (5) both interventions increased body awareness and improved posture, and (6) scheduling difficulties were a key obstacle for participating. Conclusions: Observed reductions in neck pain and disability suggest the potential utility of combined MCC and TC interventions for managing CNNP. Along with qualitative feedback regarding facilitators and barriers to participation, the findings support and inform a future randomized trial evaluating the combined benefits of MCC and TC for CNNP in nurses. Clinical Trial Registration #NCT06523036.

Older Adult and Healthcare Provider Beliefs About Fall Prevention Strategies.

Introduction: Older adults reported about 36 million falls in 2018. Although effective strategies are available to address risk factors and minimize fall risk, little is known about older adults' and healthcare providers' awareness of these strategies. This study describes and compares healthcare providers' and older adults' beliefs about fall prevention and strategies. Methods: Demographic and fall-related data for older adults were obtained from the 2019 fall cohort of Porter Novelli ConsumerStyles. Similar data from primary care practitioners, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants were gathered from the 2019 cohort of DocStyles. Results: Most providers (91.3%) and older adults (85.1%) believed falls can be prevented. Both providers and older adults were most likely to consider strength and balance exercises (90.7% and 82.8%, respectively) and making homes safer (90.5% and 79.9%, respectively) as strategies that help prevent falls. More providers reported that managing medications (84.2%) and tai chi (45.7%) can prevent falls compared to older adults (24.0% and 21.7%, respectively; P < .0001). Conclusion: More healthcare providers than older adults indicated evidence-based strategies exist to reduce falls. Increased patient and provider communication can increase awareness about the benefits of evidence-based strategies such as tai chi, strength and balance exercises, and medication management.