Tai Chi improves balance in stroke survivors
March 23rd 2009 19:24
A University of Chicago (UIC) study, led by Christina Hui-Chan a professor and head of physical therapy at UIC, reports that Tai chi improves balance in stroke survivors.
Participants in the study were Hong Kong stroke survivors who had experienced a stroke more than six months earlier. They were trained in small groups by physical therapists, and instructed to practice at home for three days a week for an hour or more a day for 12 weeks. A control group received breathing, stretching, and other exercises.
Within six weeks of tai chi practice, the stroke survivors showed improvements in balance compared to the control group.
Tai chi originated in China nearly 2,000 years ago as a form of self-defense. It is a self-paced series of movements and postures, practiced in a slow and fluid manner without pause between poses. Tai Chi is also known to improve strength and cardio fitness, and may also promote positive social interactions for isolated seniors.
Participants in the study were Hong Kong stroke survivors who had experienced a stroke more than six months earlier. They were trained in small groups by physical therapists, and instructed to practice at home for three days a week for an hour or more a day for 12 weeks. A control group received breathing, stretching, and other exercises.
Photo by Jane Ho
Within six weeks of tai chi practice, the stroke survivors showed improvements in balance compared to the control group.
Tai chi originated in China nearly 2,000 years ago as a form of self-defense. It is a self-paced series of movements and postures, practiced in a slow and fluid manner without pause between poses. Tai Chi is also known to improve strength and cardio fitness, and may also promote positive social interactions for isolated seniors.
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