J Korean Acad Fundam Nurs.  2009 Feb;16(1):30-38.

Effects of Tai Chi or Self-help Program on Balance, Flexibility, Oxygen Consumption, and Muscle Strength in Women with Osteoarthritis

• Song R
• Lee EO
• Lam P
• Bae SC

Abstract

PURPOSE: This randomized study was done to compare the effects of a 6 month Tai Chi exercise and a self-help program on balance, flexibility and muscle strength in women with osteoarthritis (OA). METHOD: In this experimental study, 82 women with OA recruited from outpatient clinics or community health centers were randomly assigned either to a Tai Chi group or a self-help group. Thirty women (mean age = 62 years) in the Tai Chi group and 39 (mean age = 59 years) in the self-help group completed posttest measures (balance, flexibility, oxygen consumption, abdominal muscle strength, back muscle strength, and grip strength) at 6 months.
RESULTS
After the 6 month, Tai Chi participants had significantly greater balance (mean difference = 2.9 vs. 0.9 for the self-help), grip strength (mean difference = 4.6 vs. 0.9 for the self-help), and back muscle strength (mean difference = 4.1 vs. -0.3 for the self-help). However, flexibility, oxygen consumption, and abdominal muscle strength were not significantly different between the groups.
CONCLUSION
Tai Chi increased balance, grip strength and back muscle strength in older women with osteoarthritis compared to the self-help program. Whether these changes improve physical functioning and fall prevention requires further study.

Keyword

Osteoarthritis; Tai Chi; Muscle strength; Postural balance; Oxygen consumption

MeSH Terms

Abdominal Muscles
Ambulatory Care Facilities
Community Health Centers
Female
Hand Strength
Humans
Muscle Strength
Muscles
Osteoarthritis
Oxygen
Oxygen Consumption
Pliability
Postural Balance
Self-Help Groups
Tai Ji
Oxygen