Impact of Tai Chi Exercise on Balance Disorders: A Systematic Review.

Author: Huang HW1, Nicholson N2, Thomas S3
Affiliation: <sup>1</sup>Department of Audiology and Speech Pathology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences/University of Arkansas at Little Rock. <sup>2</sup>Department of Audiology, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL. <sup>3</sup>Department of Library Education and Reference Services, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock.
Conference/Journal: Am J Audiol.
Date published: 2019 May 2
Other: Volume ID: 1-14 , Special Notes: doi: 10.1044/2018_AJA-18-0115. [Epub ahead of print] , Word Count: 124


Purpose Tai chi is receiving increasing research attention with its benefit of improving flexibility and balance. The objective of this review was to examine the evidence concerning the impact of tai chi as a practical therapy for vestibular rehabilitation on individuals with balance and vestibular disorders. Method A systematic review using 4 electronic databases was conducted. Randomized clinical trials and quasi-experimental studies were included. Results Four studies met the inclusion criteria and were included for data analysis. Results indicate positive effect of tai chi practice on dynamic postural stability in balance of its practitioners. Conclusion Tai chi may be a useful therapy as for vestibular rehabilitation as it improves dynamic balance control and flexibility of individuals with balance and vestibular disorders.

PMID: 31046404 DOI: 10.1044/2018_AJA-18-0115