No Pain, But Lots of GainThere are many good things about tai chi, but it's the documented health benefits I want to share with you today. The health benefits of tai chi are impressive. Recent research shows that you can use it to help with a variety of health issues.
Faster and Better Stroke Recovery
Most recently, researchers discovered that it benefits stroke victims. When you suffer a stroke, it can take a long time to fully recover your balance. The resulting mobility issues can cause you to fall and injure yourself.
A research team from the University of Illinois at Chicago discovered that tai chi helps you recover your balance faster. Dr. Hui-Chan led the study, using the following design criteria:
- 136 patients participated.
- Each patient had survived a stroke within the last six months.
- The patients were divided into two groups.
- One group practiced tai chi.
- The other did standard stretching and mobility exercises.
According to Hui-Chan, enhanced balance control improves the patients' ability to perform everyday tasks. Patients in the group showed improvements very quickly. Dr. Hui-Chan said, "In only six weeks, we saw significant improvements. The ability to shift your weight is very important because all reaching tasks require it." (2)
Reduces Pain and Builds Bones
This is of tremendous significance to aging people:
- Practicing helps keep your bones strong and prevent osteoporosis. It promotes general health, improves neuromuscular coordination, and slows bone loss. (3)
- If you've reached middle age or beyond, it may improve your blood pressure and increase your overall muscle strength. (4)
- Some patients with osteoarthritis report that it helps to control pain and improve mobility. (5)
Look one up and give it a try.
Please talk to your doctor before you make changes to your diet, exercise routine or supplements.
Until next time...
Sources:
- Hui-Chan CWY, et al. "Short-form Tai Chi improves standing balance of people with chronic stroke,"Neurorehabilitation and Neural Repair. Published online January 2009.
- "Stroke Survivors Improve Balance with Tai Chi,"Bayho.com. March 30, 2009.
- Lui PP, et al. "Tai Chi Chuan exercises in enhancing bone mineral density in active seniors," Clin Sports Med 2008; 27(1): 75-86
- Chen KM, et al. "The effects of a Simplifi ed Tai-Chi Exercise Program (STEP) on the physical health of older adults living in long-term care facilities: A single group design with multiple time points," Intl J Nursing Studies 2008: 45(4): 501-507
- Lee MS, et al. "Tai chi for osteoarthritis: a systematic review," Clinical Rheumatology 2008; 27(2): 211-18
Dr. Blankstein has been practicing for over 30 years as a leading Cardiologist. Trained in traditional medicine and Board Certified in both Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Disease, he knows the importance of good medical care. This consideration has allowed him to discover safe and natural ways of healing. His dedication to bringing the latest and best in health solutions to his patients and the public has given him the experience to research and develop proven natural remedies for many illnesses.
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