Tai chi as an adjunctive therapy for individuals who plateau after vestibular rehabilitation
Author: K Chow1, L Lei-Rivera2, M K Cosetti2, J L Kelly2
Affiliation:
1 Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, McGovern Medical School at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Texas, USA.
2 Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA.
Conference/Journal: J Laryngol Otol
Date published: 2023 Jun 1
Other:
Volume ID: 137 , Issue ID: 6 , Pages: 651-660 , Special Notes: doi: 10.1017/S0022215122001785. , Word Count: 180
Objective:
This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of tai chi on balance in patients with improved but persistent dizziness and imbalance following completion of traditional vestibular rehabilitation therapy.
Method:
Patients who completed vestibular rehabilitation therapy with persistent imbalance were prospectively enrolled in a tai chi programme comprising eight weekly classes. Balance was assessed before the first and after the eighth session using the Dynamic Gait Index, Activities-Specific Balance Confidence scale and Dizziness Handicap Inventory.
Results:
A total of 37 participants (34 females, 3 males) completed the programme with balance testing. Mean age was 76.8 years (range, 56-91 years). Mean Dynamic Gait Index significantly increased after completion of tai chi (p < 0.00001). Mean Activities-Specific Balance Confidence scale score increased from 63.6 to 67.9 per cent (p = 0.046). A subset (n = 18) of patients completed a Dizziness Handicap Inventory without significant post-therapeutic change (p = 0.62). Most (36 of 37; 97.3 per cent) patients demonstrated post-therapy improvement on one or more assessments.
Conclusion:
Tai chi is a viable adjunct to improve balance in patients who complete a vestibular rehabilitation therapy programme.
Keywords: Accidental Falls; Dizziness; Postural Balance; Tai Ji; Vestibular System.
PMID: 35916256 DOI: 10.1017/S0022215122001785
BACK
