How Tai Chi reduces pain from arthritis

There are more symptoms of arthritis than merely stiff joints. Advanced arthritis in elderly people can result in excruciating pain that reduces movement. It could result in a sedentary lifestyle that brings on loneliness and increased discomfort.

People who have used common prescription arthritis treatments may discover that the side effects, such as headaches and gastrointestinal issues, are just as difficult to deal with as the disease itself. Another possibility to consider is using natural therapies to manage pain and symptoms. One is Tai Chi, a practice that dates back thousands of years.

Findings from research on Tai Chi and arthritis pain

Seniors are becoming more interested in at-home treatments and fitness programs as they worry about reducing their exposure to the coronavirus.

Is Tai Chi as helpful in treating arthritis as physical therapy? Researchers think there's a chance it's true.

This subject was addressed in a 12-week trial of 200 people with knee osteoarthritis. Researchers sought to demonstrate that establishing a Tai Chi practice can assist seniors in coping with the discomfort and symptoms brought on by this persistent and occasionally crippling disease.

Two groups of participants in the research were created. While the other group practiced Tai Chi, the first group had physical therapy:

Physical treatment: For the first six weeks, patients in the treatment group attended two 30-minute sessions of private physical therapy. After that, they had six weeks of physical therapy at home under the strict supervision of project staff.

Tai Chi: The second set of participants concentrated on Tai Chi as a means of treating arthritis. They participated in two 1-hour Tai Chi classes a week throughout the entire 12-week research period. They learned the postures and gestures of this traditional exercise throughout these sessions.

Both groups' pain levels decreased after 12 weeks, but the Tai Chi practitioners saw the biggest health advantages. This group noticed improvements in both their physical and emotional health and reported that their arthritis felt better.

Slow and steady movements enhance flexibility

Many individuals ponder the true value of such a gradual, easy activity. The solution consists of enhanced flexibility and better muscular mass. Tai Chi benefits:

Strengthen muscles: Increasing muscle mass in the regions around injured joints lessens the pressure. This lessens the discomfort and swelling. Tai chi is a low-impact exercise method that makes that possible.

Increase your flexibility: People with arthritis have trouble moving when the pain is severe. Unfortunately, not moving just makes things worse. Slow, soft motions are used in tai chi to stretch muscles and release joints. Because of their ability to move more, they can lessen discomfort and swelling.

Encourage general fitness: Tai chi only seems gentle. In actuality, those who engage in it discover that their stamina and strength both increase. Additionally, stress-relieving and anxiety-lowering breathing methods are taught in tai chi. That's a bonus for someone who experiences persistent discomfort.

Nourishes the entire body

At Heritage Care Home Senior Living, we approach wellness holistically. Every day, there are chances for residents to partake in activities that are good for their bodies, minds, and spirits. For more details on our wellness programs, call 855-593-8766 right away!