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Tai
chi—a mind and body practice of Chinese origin that combines certain postures
and gentle movements with mental focus, breathing, and relaxation—results in
similar or greater improvement in fibromyalgia symptoms when compared to
aerobic exercise, according to a new study from Tufts and Brown Universities,
partially funded by our Center. Aerobic exercise is a core part of standard
fibromyalgia treatment, but some patients struggle with it, so other options would
be welcome.
In
the study, 226 adults with fibromyalgia were randomly assigned to either
supervised exercise sessions or tai chi classes. Scores on a standard fibromyalgia
symptom questionnaire improved in all groups, but tai chi had greater benefits
than exercise when practiced with the same frequency and duration (twice weekly
for 24 weeks). People assigned to tai chi attended more sessions than those
assigned to exercise.
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