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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Effect of Tai Chi Compared to Running on Drug Cravings, Attention Bias, and Physical Fitness in Men with Methamphetamine Use Disorder.

BACKGROUND: Methamphetamine use disorder (MUD) is a global health problem. Studies have shown Tai Chi is a potential treatment for MUD. We aimed to explore the effectiveness of Tai Chi in improving drug cravings, attention bias, and physical fitness in men with MUD compared with aerobic exercise. METHODS: A total of forty-eight participants (mean age 39.1 ± 8.7 years) were randomly assigned to either the Tai Chi group (TC) or the running group (RG). The TC performed 60 min of moderate-intensity (65-75% HRmax) Tai Chi exercise three times a week. The RG performed 60 min of moderate-intensity (65-75% HRmax) running on a treadmill three times a week. Before and after the intervention, drug cravings, attention bias, and physical fitness were evaluated. RESULTS: After 12 weeks, we found the TC significantly improved in attention bias (F (1, 43) = 6.023, p = 0.019, d = -0.42) and reaction time (F (1, 43) = 6.181, p = 0.017, d = -0.72). No significant improvement was found in other variables in the TC, compared to the RG (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The 12-week Tai Chi intervention improved attention bias and reaction time, compared to RG. Tai Chi exercise might be a potential auxiliary method for the rehabilitation for men with MUD.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Application of virtual reality to enhance therapeutic Tai Chi for depression in elderly people.

The battle against depression in the elderly is crucial due to its significant impact on their quality of life, physical and cognitive health, increased risk of social isolation and suicide, as well as the associated higher healthcare costs. This research investigates the effects of traditional and augmented reality Tai Chi, using the virtual environment "Managed Tai Chi," on depression in elderly individuals. The study involved 300 participants aged over 60 from the Beijing Medical Center, with an experimental period lasting six months and sessions held once a week. The Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) was utilized as a diagnostic tool at the pre-test and post-test stages. The findings revealed that the VR group exhibited a more substantial reduction in depression compared to the traditional and control groups (p ≤ 0.05), indicating the enhanced efficacy of Tai Chi with VR augmentation in treating depression in the elderly.

Tai Chi Movement Recognition and Precise Intervention for the Elderly Based on Inertial Measurement Units and Temporal Convolutional Neural Networks.

(1) Background: The objective of this study was to recognize tai chi movements using inertial measurement units (IMUs) and temporal convolutional neural networks (TCNs) and to provide precise interventions for elderly people. (2) Methods: This study consisted of two parts: firstly, 70 skilled tai chi practitioners were used for movement recognition; secondly, 60 elderly males were used for an intervention study. IMU data were collected from skilled tai chi practitioners performing Bafa Wubu, and TCN models were constructed and trained to classify these movements. Elderly participants were divided into a precision intervention group and a standard intervention group, with the former receiving weekly real-time IMU feedback. Outcomes measured included balance, grip strength, quality of life, and depression. (3) Results: The TCN model demonstrated high accuracy in identifying tai chi movements, with percentages ranging from 82.6% to 94.4%. After eight weeks of intervention, both groups showed significant improvements in grip strength, quality of life, and depression. However, only the precision intervention group showed a significant increase in balance and higher post-intervention scores compared to the standard intervention group. (4) Conclusions: This study successfully employed IMU and TCN to identify Tai Chi movements and provide targeted feedback to older participants. Real-time IMU feedback can enhance health outcome indicators in elderly males.

Effects of mind-body therapies on depression among adolescents: a systematic review and network meta-analysis.

Background: Depression poses significant threats to adolescents' health globally. Research has shown the potential of mind-body therapies to alleviate depression, but limited studies have directly compared the therapeutic effects of different types of mind-body therapies on adolescent depression and the optimal therapy remain unclear. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials that met the inclusion criteria to explore the effectiveness of different types of mind-body therapies as interventions to improve depression among adolescents, and to identify the most effective interventions. Methods: A comprehensive search of databases including PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Scopus up to January 2024 was conducted to assess the impact of mind-body therapies on depression among adolescents. The risk of bias of the included studies was evaluated using Cochrane Review Manager 5.4. STATA 18.0 was used for network meta-analysis. The node-splitting method was used to test the local inconsistency of the network meta-analysis. Funnel plots and the Egger's test were utilized to assess the potential impact of bias in this study. Result: This network meta-analysis included 9 randomized controlled trials involving a total of 955 subjects. The results indicated that yoga, dance therapy and Tai Chi were more effective than other mind-body therapies in reducing symptoms of depression among adolescents. Specifically, according to the SUCRA ranking, yoga was rated to be the optimal intervention for adolescents with depression (SCURA: 82.2%), followed by dance therapy (SCURA: 77.5%) and Tai Chi (SCURA: 64.9%). Conclusion: This study revealed that mind-body therapies have positive effects on improving depression among adolescents. Yoga may be the most effective intervention among the different types of mind-body therapies. However, due to the small sample size of patients included, the certainty of the results was limited to some extent. Therefore, further investigation is necessary to strengthen the evidence base when more relevant studies become available. Systematic review registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier CRD42024508774.

Evaluation of a Virtual Tai Chi Program for Older Veterans at Risk of Loneliness or Physical Deconditioning: A Quality Improvement Project.

This Quality Improvement project evaluated the implementation of a virtual Tai Chi program for older Veterans (OVs) at risk of loneliness and/or physical deconditioning. A 12-week Tai Chi course was conducted virtually at three Veterans Affairs sites using VA Video Connect (VVC). Changes in physical function based on the 30-Second Chair Stand (30CST) and loneliness based on the De Jong Gierveld Loneliness Scale (DJGS) were measured, as were the OVs' satisfaction and adherence. Of 109 OVs who enrolled, 74 completed the program with a mean attendance rate of 84%. Completers demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in the 30CST, and those who were moderately or severely lonely at baseline saw a statistically significant improvement in the DJGS. Course evaluations were generally very positive. Results suggest that a virtual Tai Chi program is an effective and very satisfying intervention for OVs at risk of loneliness or physical deconditioning.

The effect of body weight-supported Tai Chi Yunshou on upper limb motor function in stroke survivors based on neurobiomechanical analysis: a four-arm, parallel-group, assessors-blind randomized controlled trial protocol.

Introduction: A series of functional disorders commonly occur after stroke, of which upper limb dysfunction is the most difficult to recover. The upper limb rehabilitation effect of Tai Chi Yunshou(TCY) in the later stage of stroke has been confirmed by research. Body weight support-Tai Chi Yunshou (BWS-TCY) is based on TCY exercise and robotic exoskeletons offers most flexibility in deweighting and control strategy. This study is aimed to explore the effect of BWS-TCY on upper limb motor function in stroke based on neurobiomechanics. Methods and analysis: A single-blind randomized controlled trial will be conducted on 36 stroke survivors who will be randomly assigned to three groups: experimental group, control group A and control group B. In addition, 12 healthy elderly people will be recruited into the healthy control group. Those in the experimental group will receive 20 min of CRT and 20 min of BWS-TCY training, while participants in the control group A will receive 20 min of CRT and 20 min of Robot-assisted training. Participants in the control group B will undergo 40 min of Conventional rehabilitation training (CRT) daily. All interventions will take place 5 days a week for 12 weeks, with a 12-week follow-up period. No intervention will be carried out for the healthy control group. Upper limb function will be assessed before and after the intervention using various rating scales (Fugl-Meyer Assessment, Wolf Motor Function Test, etc.), as well as neurobiomechanical analyses (surface electromyography, functional near-infrared brain function analysis system, and Xsens maneuver Capture System). Additionally, 10 healthy elderly individuals will be recruited for neurobiomechanical analysis, and the results will be compared with those of stroke survivors. Discussion: The results of this study will offer initial evidence on the effectiveness and feasibility of BWS-TCY as an early intervention for stroke rehabilitation. Positive findings from this study could contribute to the development of guidelines for the use of BWS-TCY in the early stages of stroke. Ethics and dissemination: This study has been approved by the Research Ethics Committees of the seventh People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Study ID: 2022-7th-HIRB-022). The results of the study will be published in a peer-reviewed journal and presented at scientific conferences. Clinical trial registration: https://clinicaltrials.gov/, ChiCTR 2200063150.

Effect of Tai Chi-Based Psychosomatic Rehabilitation Exercise on Physiological Function and Mental Health of Patients with Coronary Heart Disease: A Meta-Analysis.

Background: Tai Chi is an increasingly utilized aerobic rehabilitation exercise in the field of cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, there remains debate regarding its effects on physiological function and mental health in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD). This study aims to investigate the impact of Tai Chi-based rehabilitation exercises on physical and psychological health outcomes for CHD patients. Methods: By collecting data from 12 databases up to December 2022, we conducted a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to evaluate the effects of Tai Chi on the physical function and psychological health among CHD patients. Results: We analyzed twenty qualified studies involving 2095 patients. Meta-analyses revealed that compared with conventional therapy groups, those who participated in Tai Chi-based interventions demonstrated significant improvements in physical function as measured by six-minute walk test (6MWT) [mean difference (MD) = 56.40, 95% confidence interval (CI) (38.50, 74.29), p < 0.01], maximal oxygen consumption ( VO 2 max) [standardized mean difference (SMD) = 0. 57, 95% CI (0.12, 1.03), p = 0.01], New York Heart Association (NYHA) class [relative risk (RR) = 1.34, 95% CI (1.18, 1.53), p < 0.01] and physical health components (PHC) [SMD = 1.23, 95% CI (0.76, 1.69), p < 0.01]. Additionally, Tai Chi participants showed greater improvement than control groups across various psychological parameters including anxiety scales [SMD = -0.80, 95% CI (-1.33, -0.28), p = 0.003], depression scales [SMD = -0.77, 95% CI (-1.32, -0.23), p = 0.005] and mental health components (MHC) [SMD = 1.27, 95% CI (0.76, -1.78), p < 0.01]. The GRADEpro (Grade Guideline Development Tool) indicated evidence levels ranging from very low to moderate. Conclusions: The present meta-analysis demonstrates that mind-body rehabilitation exercises based on Tai Chi can improve both physical and psychological health outcomes for CHD patients. These findings suggest that this exercise pattern may be a potential option for cardiovascular rehabilitation. PROSPERO Registration: The protocol for this systematic review and meta-analysis has been registered with PROSPERO International Prospective Systematic Reviews (No: CRD42022370021, http://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO).

Proposal and validation of a new approach in tele-rehabilitation with 3D human posture estimation: a randomized controlled trial in older individuals with sarcopenia.

OBJECTIVE: Through a randomized controlled trial on older adults with sarcopenia, this study compared the training effects of an AI-based remote training group using deep learning-based 3D human pose estimation technology with those of a face-to-face traditional training group and a general remote training group. METHODS: Seventy five older adults with sarcopenia aged 60-75 from community organizations in Changchun city were randomly divided into a face-to-face traditional training group (TRHG), a general remote training group (GTHG), and an AI-based remote training group (AITHG). All groups underwent a 3-month program consisting of 24-form Taichi exercises, with a frequency of 3 sessions per week and each session lasting 40 min. The participants underwent Appendicular Skeletal Muscle Mass Index (ASMI), grip strength, 6-meter walking pace, Timed Up and Go test (TUGT), and quality of life score (QoL) tests before the experiment, during the mid-term, and after the experiment. This study used SPSS26.0 software to perform one-way ANOVA and repeated measures ANOVA tests to compare the differences among the three groups. A significance level of p < 0.05 was defined as having significant difference, while p < 0.01 was defined as having a highly significant difference. RESULTS: (1) The comparison between the mid-term and pre-term indicators showed that TRHG experienced significant improvements in ASMI, 6-meter walking pace, and QoL (p < 0.01), and a significant improvement in TUGT timing test (p < 0.05); GTHG experienced extremely significant improvements in 6-meter walking pace and QoL (p < 0.01); AITHG experienced extremely significant improvements in ASMI, 6-meter walking pace, and QoL (p < 0.01), and a significant improvement in TUGT timing test (p < 0.05). (2) The comparison between the post-term and pre-term indicators showed that TRHG experienced extremely significant improvements in TUGT timing test (p < 0.01); GTHG experienced significant improvements in ASMI and TUGT timing test (p < 0.05); and AITHG experienced extremely significant improvements in TUGT timing test (p < 0.01). (3) During the mid-term, there was no significant difference among the groups in all tests (p > 0.05). The same was in post-term tests (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Compared to the pre-experiment, there was no significant difference at the post- experiment in the recovery effects on the muscle quality, physical activity ability, and life quality of patients with sarcopenia between the AI-based remote training group and the face-to-face traditional training group. 3D pose estimation is equally as effective as traditional rehabilitation methods in enhancing muscle quality, functionality and life quality in older adults with sarcopenia. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The trial was registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05767710).