Comprehensive therapeutic benefits of Taiji: a critical review

Am J Phys Med Rehabil. 2004 Sep;83(9):735-45. doi: 10.1097/01.phm.0000137317.98890.74.

Abstract

This literature review offers physical rehabilitation professionals an update on the current breadth and strength of research evidence regarding comprehensive therapeutic benefits of Taiji practice. A critical analysis distinguishes between what is known from controlled clinical research and what is suggested in preliminary research. Of >200 published reports examined, 17 controlled clinical trials were judged to meet a high standard of methodological rigor. Controlled research evidence was found to confirm therapeutic benefits of Taiji practice with regard to improving quality of life, physical function including activity tolerance and cardiovascular function, pain management, balance and risk of falls reduction, enhancing immune response, and improving flexibility, strength, and kinesthetic sense. Preliminary research on implementation feasibility of Taiji programming exists for a variety of clinical populations. Further controlled clinical study is justified for a wide variety of clinical contexts.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Accidental Falls / prevention & control
  • Cardiovascular Physiological Phenomena
  • Controlled Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Disabled Persons / rehabilitation*
  • Evidence-Based Medicine
  • Health Promotion / methods*
  • Humans
  • Pain Management
  • Physical Fitness
  • Postural Balance*
  • Quality of Life
  • Self Efficacy
  • Tai Ji* / methods
  • Tai Ji* / standards
  • Treatment Outcome