Tai Chi Improves Pain, Study Finds

Finding a suitable form of exercise can be difficult if you suffer from fibromyalgia. Motivation to exercise may also be lacking; after all, who wants to exercise when they are in pain all of the time? Studies have shown that exercise can decrease pain in fibromyalgia, improve sleep patterns, increase overall functioning and elevate mood. A small study from Tufts University examined the effects of tai chi on pain in fibromyalgia and found that this form of exercise can be beneficial for people suffering from fibromyalgia.

The study included 66 participants, half of whom were assigned to take tai chi classes while the other half were assigned to take stretching classes combined with educational classes regarding their condition. Both groups participated in their prescribed activity twice weekly. Classes were for a 12 week duration. What were the results of the study?

• Those who participated in tai chi reported less pain, less depression, better sleep and higher overall quality of life than their counterpart group

• The tai chi group showed better performance at the end of 12 weeks on tests of physical ability

• Almost 1/3 of the tai chi group were able to decrease or quit taking their medications, as opposed to only 1/6 of the other group who took stretching classes and educational seminars

Tai chi is sort of a mixture of yoga and meditation. It involves varied sequences of movements which are performed gracefully and slowly with gentle transitions in between movements. Tai chi fosters calmness and can be soothing, as the point of Tai Chi is to concentrate on the movements and executing these movements correctly. Tai chi has been practiced for centuries and has its roots in self defense. It promotes muscle control, balance and relaxation.

Tai chi can benefit people with fibromyalgia by exercising and increasing blood flow to sore and tired muscles. Exercise itself, in any form, can improve mood. Tai chi, with the element of meditation, may be especially relaxing for people with fibromyalgia. Exercise also promotes the release of the body’s natural painkillers, called endorphins. There are many benefits to exercise in fibromyalgia, and Tai chi may be especially well suited to this condition.