Title: Effectiveness of Tai-Chi on Balance in Elderly
Authors: Dr Ujwal L.Yeole, Sharka J. Bardgujar, Dr Gaurai M. Gharote, Dr Rasika S.Panse, Dr Pournima A. Pawar, Dr Shweta A. Kulkarni
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v4i12.88
Abstract
Background: With age, the task of maintaining balance becomes highly difficult, as evidenced by the increased frequency of falls in older adults. Tai Chi is a traditional Chinese form of exercise among older adults, especially in Asia used for improving balance and other neuromuscular functions. Tai Chi involves a series of slow, smooth, and graceful movements, with an emphasis on coordination of the eyes, head, body, and upper and lower extremities. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the effects of Tai Chi on balance in elderly people.
Methods: Thirty elderly subjects fulfilling the inclusion criteria were recruited for the study. Subjects participated in Tai Chi program, for 4 consecutive weeks carried out by a certified Tai Chi trainer. Primary outcome measures included joint position sense of ankle and time up and go test. The readings of the outcome measures were noted on the very first day of the program, week 2 and week 4.Subjects completed a satisfaction questionnaire after completion of the program.
Results
1) Tai Chi showed improvement post training, the p values being statistically extremely significant (p=<0.0001) for joint position sense of both the ankles ankle on 2nd and 4th week.
2) Tai Chi showed improvement post training, the p values being statistically extremely significant (p=<0.0001) for time up and go test on 2nd and 4th week.
Conclusion: Tai-Chi is effective in improving balance in elderly.
Keyword: Tai Chi, balance, elderly, joint position sense, time up and go.
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