Mindfulness-based interventions in multiple sclerosis: beneficial effects of Tai Chi on balance, coordination, fatigue and depression Effects of Tai Chi Exercise on Cancer-Related Fatigue in Patients With Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Undergoing Chemoradiotherapy: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Explaining the ineffectiveness of a Tai Chi fall prevention training for community-living older people: a process evaluation alongside a randomized clinical trial (RCT). Qigong/tai chi for sleep and fatigue in prostate cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy: a randomized controlled trial The effect of Tai Chi Chuan in reducing falls among elderly people: design of a randomized clinical trial in the Netherlands [ISRCTN98840266] Randomized Controlled Trial of Qigong/Tai Chi Easy on Cancer-Related Fatigue in Breast Cancer Survivors Patient, caregiver, and oncologist perceptions of cancer-related fatigue: results of a tripart assessment survey. The Fatigue Coalition. Tai Chi Exercise for Cancer-Related Fatigue in Patients With Lung Cancer Undergoing Chemotherapy: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Quality of Reporting of Randomized Clinical Trials in Tai Chi Interventions—A Systematic Review Evaluation of Tai Chi Program Effectiveness for People with Arthritis in the Community: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Effects of tai chi exercise on posturography, gait, physical function and quality of life in postmenopausal women with osteopaenia: a randomized clinical study Changes in heart rate, noradrenaline, cortisol and mood during Tai Chi. The sustaining effects of Tai chi Qigong on physiological health for COPD patients: a randomized controlled trial. A randomized controlled trial on the psychophysiological effects of physical exercise and Tai-chi in patients with chronic schizophrenia Qigong and Tai-Chi for Mood Regulation. Augmenting immune responses to varicella zoster virus in older adults: a randomized, controlled trial of Tai Chi. Effect of Tai Chi on depressive symptoms amongst Chinese older patients with major depression: the role of social support. Tai-Chi for Residential Patients with Schizophrenia on Movement Coordination, Negative Symptoms, and Functioning: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial A Comparison of the Effectiveness of Treating Those With and Without the Complications of Superficial Venous Insufficiency Tai Chi for Essential Hypertension Lack of effect of Tai Chi Chuan in preventing falls in elderly people living at home: a randomized clinical trial. Cystic fibrosis—Children and adults Tai Chi study (CF CATS2): Can Tai Chi improve symptoms and quality of life for people with cystic fibrosis? Second phase study protocol Sustained sleep restriction reduces emotional and physical well-being
Background Patients suffering from Multiple Sclerosis ( MS ) experience a wide array of symptoms , including balance problems , mobility impairment , fatigue and depression . Physical exercise has recently been acknowledged as a treatment option complementary to medication . However , information regarding putative effects of structured exercise programs on neurological symptoms is sparse . Tai Chi , a Chinese martial art incorporating physical exercise and mindfulness training , has been shown to yield health benefits in various neurological groups . It seems particularly suitable for patients with motoric deficits as it challenges coordination and balance . The purpose of the current study was to explore the therapeutic value of structured Tai Chi training for coordination , balance , fatigue and depression in mildly disabled MS patients . Methods A sample of 32 MS patients ( Exp and ed Disability Status Scale , EDSS < 5 ) was examined . A structured Tai Chi course was devised and a Tai Chi group participated in two weekly sessions of 90 minutes duration for six months , while a comparison group received treatment as usual ( TAU ) . Both groups were examined prior to and following the six-months interval with regards to balance and coordination performance as well as measures of fatigue , depression and life satisfaction . Results Following the intervention , the Tai Chi group showed significant , consistent improvements in balance , coordination , and depression , relative to the TAU group ( range of effect-sizes : partial η2 = 0.16 – 0.20 ) . Additionally , life satisfaction improved ( partial η2 = 0.31 ) . Fatigue deteriorated in the comparison group , whereas it remained relatively stable in the Tai Chi group ( partial η2 = 0.24 ) . Conclusions The consistent pattern of results confirms that Tai Chi holds therapeutic potential for MS patients . Further research is needed to determine underlying working mechanisms , and to verify the results in a larger sample and different MS subgroups CONTEXT Tai Chi exercise has been shown to improve cancer-related fatigue ( CRF ) and autonomic nervous system ( ANS ) balance in some cancer patients or survivors ; however , such effects are yet to be verified in nasopharyngeal carcinoma ( NPC ) patients undergoing chemoradiotherapy . OBJECTIVES To explore the effects of Tai Chi exercise on CRF in NPC patients undergoing chemoradiotherapy and then to evaluate ANS information indicated by heart rate variability parameters and their association with CRF . METHODS A r and omized controlled trial of Tai Chi exercise was conducted from January 2014 to August 2015 . Participants in the Tai Chi group practice d Tai Chi a one-hour session , five sessions/week during chemoradiotherapy . Participants in the control group received usual care . The primary end points were scores of the multidimensional fatigue symptom inventory-short form ( MFSI-SF ) . Secondary end points were heart rate variability parameters , including normalized low-frequency ( nLF ) power , normalized high-frequency ( nHF ) power , and the nLF/nHF ratio , and their association with CRF . RESULTS One hundred fourteen patients were recruited in this study , and 83 patients completed the trial . The Tai Chi group and the control group had comparable baseline characteristics . After chemoradiotherapy , the Tai Chi group exhibited lower MFSI-SF total score and three negative subscale ( general , physical , and emotional fatigue ) scores and higher vigor score compared with the control group ( P < 0.01 for all ) . The nLF/nHF ratio was significantly lower in the Tai Chi group compared to the control group after chemoradiotherapy . The MFSI-SF total score was markedly correlated with the nLF/nHF ratio . CONCLUSION Tai Chi exercise is conducive to alleviate  CRF  in NPC patients undergoing chemoradiotherapy . The improvement in ANS balance might fit into the process of Tai Chi for CRF management in this population The results of a r and omized clinical trial ( RCT ) on the effects of a Tai Chi fall prevention in community-living older people with a high risk of falling in the Netherl and s showed no beneficial effects on falls and secondary outcomes ( e.g. , balance , fear of falling ) . The aim of this study is to provide insight in process-related factors that may have influenced the effectiveness of the intervention . The intervention consisted of Tai Chi Chuan ( TCC ) training for 1 h twice a week for 13 weeks . We used self-administered question naires and registration forms to collect data from participants and instructors . We analyzed quantitative data by means of descriptive statistics and categorized qualitative data based on the content of the answers given . Of the participants , that started the program 89 ( 79 % ) completed the intervention , but a minority of 47 % attended 80 % of more of the lessons . All participants and instructors were positive about the program and most participants reported benefits from the intervention . Suggestions for improvements mainly relate to adjustments of training aspects . The main process-related factors that may be have influenced the lack of beneficial effects on falls and secondary outcomes are the relatively high withdrawal and the low adherence rates OBJECTIVES Sleep disturbances and fatigue are common in prostate cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy . Prior research suggests mind-body techniques may improve these outcomes . We conducted a r and omized controlled trial of qigong/tai chi ( QGTC ) in men with prostate cancer undergoing radiotherapy .  METHODS Men with prostate cancer starting definitive radiation were r and omized to 1 of 3 groups : ( 1 ) QGTC ; ( 2 ) light exercise ( LE ) ; or ( 3 ) waiting list control .  Sleep disturbances ( Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index ) and fatigue ( Brief Fatigue Inventory ) were assessed at baseline , midway through radiotherapy ( T2 ) , during the last week of radiotherapy ( T3 ) , and at 1 ( T4 ) and 3 months ( T5 ) after the end of radiotherapy . Patients in the QGTC and LE groups attended three 40-minute classes per week throughout radiotherapy . RESULTS Ninety patients were r and omized to the 3 groups ( QGTC = 26 ; LE = 26 ; waiting list control = 24 ) . The QGTC group reported longer sleep duration midway through radiotherapy ( QGTC = 7.01 h ; LE = 6.42 ; WL = 6.50 ; P = .05 ) , but this difference did not persist over time . There were no group differences in other domains of sleep or fatigue . Exploratory analyses conducted to examine the effect of health-related quality of life ( Exp and ed Prostate Cancer Index Composite and American Urological Association Symptom score ) on sleep and fatigue showed significant correlations across multiple domains . CONCLUSIONS Qigong/tai chi during radiation for prostate cancer result ed in superior sleep duration midway through radiation , but this effect was not durable , and there were no differences in other domains of sleep or fatigue . Exploratory analysis demonstrated that both sleep and fatigue were highly correlated with prostate cancer-related physical symptoms . Future mind-body intervention studies should incorporate multimodal therapy focused on improving physical symptoms in this population Background Falls are a significant public health problem . Thirty to fifty percent of the elderly of 65 years and older fall each year . Falls are the most common type of accident in this age group and can result in fractures and subsequent disabilities , increased fear of falling , social isolation , decreased mobility , and even an increased mortality . Several forms of exercise have been associated with a reduced risk of falling and with a wide range of physiological as well as psychosocial health benefits . Tai Chi Chuan seems to be the most promising form of exercise in the elderly , but the evidence is still controversial . In this article the design of a r and omized clinical trial is presented . The trial evaluates the effect of Tai Chi Chuan on fall prevention and physical and psychological function in older adults . Methods / Design 270 people of seventy years and older living at home will be identified in the files of the participating general practitioners . People will be asked to participate when meeting the following inclusion criteria : have experienced a fall in the preceding year or suffer from two of the following risk factors : disturbed balance , mobility problems , dizziness , or the use of benzodiazepines or diuretics . People will be r and omly allocated to either the Tai Chi Chuan group ( 13 weeks , twice a week ) or the no treatment control group . The primary outcome measure is the number of new falls , measured with a diary . The secondary outcome measures are balance , fear of falling , blood pressure , heart rate , lung function parameters , physical activity , functional status , quality of life , mental health , use of walking devices , medication , use of health care services , adjustments to the house , severity of fall incidents and subsequent injuries . Process parameters will be measured to evaluate the Tai Chi Chuan intervention . A cost-effectiveness analysis will be carried out alongside the evaluation of the clinical results . Follow-up measurements will be collected at 3 , 6 and 12 months after r and omization . Discussion As far as we know this is the first trial in Europe considering Tai Chi Chuan and fall prevention . This project will answer a pragmatic research question regarding the efficacy of Tai Chi Chuan regarding fall reduction Background Many breast cancer survivors experience fatigue , mood , and sleep disturbances .  Purpose This study aims to compare a meditative movement practice , Qigong/Tai Chi Easy ( QG/TCE ) with sham Qigong ( SQG ) , testing effects of meditation/breath aspects of QG/TCE on breast cancer survivors ’ persistent fatigue and other symptoms . Methods This double-blind , r and omized controlled trial tested 12 weeks of QG/TCE versus SQG on fatigue , depression , and sleep among 87 postmenopausal , fatigued breast cancer survivors , stages 0–III , age 40–75 .  Results Fatigue decreased significantly in the QG/TCE group compared to control at post-intervention ( p = 0.005 ) and 3 months follow-up ( p = 0.024 ) , but not depression and sleep quality . Improvement occurred over time for both interventions in depression and sleep quality ( all p < 0.05 ) . Conclusions QG/TCE showed significant improvement over time compared to SQG  for fatigue , but not depression or sleep . Both QG/TCE and SQG showed improvement for two prevalent symptoms among breast cancer survivors , depression and sleep dysfunction Although fatigue is the most common symptom reported by cancer patients and has serious adverse effects on quality of life , it remains poorly understood . A survey was design ed to characterize the epidemiology of cancer-related fatigue from the perspectives of the patient , primary caregiver , and oncologist . A telephone survey included 419 cancer patients recruited from 100,000 r and omly selected households nationwide . Patients provided access to 200 primary caregivers ( usually family members ) who were also interviewed by telephone . In a separate mail survey , 197 of 600 r and omly sample d oncologists ( unrelated to the patients ) responded to a question naire that assessed perceptions and attitudes concerning fatigue in cancer patients who had received chemotherapy or radiotherapy and their caregivers . The median patient age was 65 years , and the principal cancer diagnoses were breast ( females ) and genitourinary ( males ) . Fifty-nine percent of the patients had received chemotherapy , 63 % radiation therapy  , and 24 % both ; 20 % of patients received their last treatment within 6 weeks , 31 % within 7 weeks to 1 year , and 49 % more than 1 year ago . More than three quarters of patients ( 78 % ) experienced fatigue ( defined as a general feeling of debilitating tiredness or loss of energy ) during the course of their disease and treatment . Thirty-two percent experienced fatigue daily , and 32 % reported fatigue significantly affected their daily routines . Caregivers reported observing fatigue in 86 % of the index patients , and oncologists perceived that 76 % of their patients experienced fatigue . Although oncologists believed that pain adversely affected their patients to a greater degree than fatigue ( 61 % v 37 % ) , patients felt that fatigue adversely affected their daily lives more than pain ( 61 % v 19 % ) . Most oncologists ( 80 % ) believed fatigue is overlooked or undertreated , and most patients ( 74 % ) considered fatigue a symptom to be endured . Fifty percent of patients did not discuss treatment options with their oncologists , and only 27 % reported that their oncologists recommended any treatment for fatigue . When used , treatments for fatigue were generally perceived by patients and caregivers to be successful . These data confirm the high prevalence and adverse impact of cancer-related fatigue , although it is seldom discussed and infrequently treated . For patients and oncologists , improving the quality of life of cancer patients requires a heightened awareness of fatigue , a better underst and ing of its impact , and improve communication and familiarity with interventions that can reduce its debilitating effects CONTEXT Tai Chi is a traditional Chinese health-promoting exercise . It has been shown to enhance mental health and improve psychological condition . OBJECTIVES We aim ed to assess the effectiveness of Tai Chi exercise for cancer-related fatigue in patients with lung cancer undergoing chemotherapy . METHODS We conducted a r and omized trial of Tai Chi exercise as compared with low-impact exercise as a control intervention . Exercises were practice d every other day , a one-hour session for 12 weeks for each of the study groups . The primary end point was a change in total score of the Multidimensional Fatigue Symptom Inventory-Short Form ( MFSI-SF ) . Secondary end points were changes in five subscale scores of the MFSI-SF . All assessment s were repeated at three time points , T0 : before first course of chemotherapy ; T1 : before third course of chemotherapy ; and T2 : at the end of the fourth course of chemotherapy . RESULTS Between January 2012 and December 2014 , 96 patients were enrolled in this trial . At six and 12 weeks , the Tai Chi group had a lower MFSI-SF total score compared with the control group ( 59.5 ± 11.3 vs. 66.8 ± 11.9 , P < 0.05 ; 53.3 ± 11.8 vs. 59.3 ± 12.2 , P < 0.05 ) . At six weeks , the Tai Chi group had lower MFSI-SF general subscale scores ( 18.1 ± 4.6 vs. 20.4 ± 4.5 , P < 0.05 ) and physical subscale scores ( 17.5 ± 4.4 vs. 19.1 ± 4.5 , P < 0.05 ) , and higher MFSI-SF vigor subscale scores ( 14.5 ± 3.3 vs. 11.6 ± 3.4 , P < 0.05 ) , compared with the control group . But no significant differences were found in emotional subscale ( 20.2 ± 3.6 vs. 20.0 ± 3.5 , P > 0.05 ) and mental subscale ( 18.2 ± 4.0 vs. 18.9 ± 3.9 , P > 0.05 ) scores between the Tai Chi group and the control group . At 12 weeks , the MFSI-SF subscale scores showed the same trends as at six weeks . CONCLUSION Tai Chi is an effective intervention for managing cancer-related fatigue in patients with lung cancer undergoing chemotherapy , especially for decreasing general fatigue and physical fatigue , and increasing vigor Objectives . To evaluate the reporting quality of published r and omized clinical trials ( RCTs ) in the Tai Chi literature following the publication of the CONSORT guidelines in 2001 . Data Sources . The OVID MEDLINE and PUBMED data bases . Review Methods . To survey the general characteristics of Tai Chi RCTs in the literature , we included any report if ( i ) it was an original report of the trial ; ( ii ) its design was RCT ; ( iii ) one of the treatments being tested was Tai Chi ; and ( iv ) it was in English . In addition , we assessed the reporting quality of RCTs that were published between 2002 and 2007 , using a modified CONSORT checklist of 40 items . The adequate description of Tai Chi interventions in these trials was examined against a 10-item checklist adapted from previous review s. Results . The search yielded 31 Tai Chi RCTs published from 2002 to 2007 and only 11 for 1992–2001 . Among trials published during 2002–2007 , the most adequately reported criteria were related to background , participant eligibility and interpretation of the study results . Nonetheless , the most poorly reported items were associated with r and omization allocation concealment , implementation of r and omization and the definitions of period of recruitment and follow-up . In addition , only 23 % of RCTs provided adequate details of Tai Chi intervention used in the trials . Conclusion . The findings in this review indicated that the reporting quality of Tai Chi intervention trials is sub-optimal . Substantial improvement is required to meet the CONSORT guidelines and allow assessment of the quality of evidence . We believe that not only investigators , but also journal editors , review ers and funding agencies need to follow the CONSORT guidelines to improve the st and ards of research and strengthen the evidence base for Tai Chi and for complementary and alternative medicine OBJECTIVE Evaluate effectiveness of the Arthritis Foundation Tai Chi Program for community participants with arthritis . METHODS 343 individuals were r and omized to either the intervention or wait-list control group .  Performance and self-reported outcome ( SRO ) measures were assessed at baseline and eight weeks . At one year , SROs only were assessed . Adjusted means were determined using regression models adjusting for covariates , and effect sizes ( ES ) were calculated . RESULTS Average participant age was 66 years , 87 % were female , and 87 % were Caucasian . Among 284 ( 83 % ) participants who returned at eight weeks , balance by reach ( ES = 0.30 ) and helplessness , sleep , and role participation satisfaction ( ES = 0.24 - 0.54 ) improved significantly ; pain , fatigue , and stiffness improvement ( ES = 0.15 - 0.23 ) approached significance . No change was noted in mobility , lower extremity strength , or single-leg stance balance . At one year , improvements in pain , fatigue , stiffness , helplessness , and role participation satisfaction at eight weeks were maintained ; 30 % continued tai chi practice . CONCLUSION Moderate effectiveness of the Arthritis Foundation Tai Chi Program was confirmed Objective : To evaluate the effects of tai chi exercise on risk factors for  falls in postmenopausal women with osteopaenia through measurements of balance , gait , physical function and quality of life . Design : A r and omized , controlled , single-blinded , 24-week trial with stratification by age and bone mass . Setting : General community . Participants : Sixty-one independently living elderly females aged 65 years and older with low bone mass . Interventions : Subjects were recruited and r and omly assigned to 24 weeks of tai chi ( 60 minutes/session , three sessions/week , n = 30 ) or a control group ( n = 31 ) . Outcome measures : Computerized dynamic posturography , gait , ‘ timed up and go ’ , five-chair sit-to-st and and quality of life assessed at baseline , 12 and 24 weeks . Results : After 24 weeks , subjects in the tai chi group demonstrated an increase in stride width ( P = 0.05 ) and improvement in general health ( P = 0.008 ) , vitality ( P = 0.02 ) and bodily pain ( P = 0.03 ) compared with those in the control group . There was no significant difference in balance parameters , ‘ timed up and go ’ , five-chair sit-to-st and and other domains of quality of life . Conclusion : Tai chi exercise may reduce risk factors for falls by increasing the stride width , and may improve quality of life in terms of general health , vitality and bodily pain in postmenopausal women with osteopaenia Changes in psychological and physiological functioning following participation in Tai Chi  were assessed for 33 beginners and 33 practitioners . The variables in the three-way factorial design were experience ( beginners vs practitioners ) , time ( morning vs afternoon vs evening ) , and phase ( before Tai Chi vs during Tai Chi vs after Tai Chi ) . Phase was a repeated measures variable . Relative to measures taken beforeh and , practice of Tai Chi  raised heart rate , increased noradrenaline excretion in urine , and decreased salivary cortisol concentration . Relative to baseline levels , subjects reported less tension , depression , anger , fatigue , confusion and state-anxiety , they felt more vigorous , and in general they had less total mood disturbance . The data suggest that Tai Chi results in gains that are comparable to those found with moderate exercise . There is need for research concerned with whether participation in Tai Chi has effects over and above those associated with physical exercise OBJECTIVES To evaluate the sustaining effects of Tai chi Qigong in improving the physiological health for COPD patients at sixth month . DESIGN A r and omized controlled trial . Subjects were in three r and omly assigned groups : Tai chi Qigong group , exercise group , and control group . SETTING The 206 subjects were recruited from five general outpatient clinics . INTERVENTIONS Tai chi Qigong group completed a 3-month Tai chi Qigong program . Exercise group practice d breathing and walking as an exercise . Control group received usual care . MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Primary outcomes included six-minute walking distance and lung functions . Secondary outcomes were dyspnea and fatigue levels , number of exacerbations and hospital admissions . RESULTS Tai chi Qigong group showed a steady improvement in exercise capacity ( P<.001 ) from baseline to the sixth month . The mean walking distance increased from 298 to 349 meters ( + 17 % ) . No significant changes were noted in the other two groups . Tai chi Qigong group also showed improvement in lung functions ( P<.001 ) . Mean forced expiratory volume in 1s increased from .89 to .99l ( + 11 % ) . No significant change was noted in the exercise group . Deterioration was found in the control group , with mean volume decreased from .89 to .84l ( -5.67 % ) . Significant decreased in the number of exacerbations was observed in the Tai chi Qigong group . No changes in dyspnea and fatigue levels were noted among the three groups . CONCLUSIONS Tai chi Qigong has sustaining effects in improving the physiological health and is a useful and appropriate exercise for COPD patients The chronic and prevalent natures of schizophrenia result in long-term institutionalization for the patients . Conventional treatment of anti-psychotic medication on management of psychotic symptoms often brings on severe side effects and reduces patients ' well-being . Tai-chi is a mind-body exercise that underscores motor coordination and relaxation . This 3-arm r and omized controlled trial investigated the psychophysiological benefits of Tai-chi on 153 chronic schizophrenia patients , who were recruited from a mental health rehab complex and r and omized into Tai-chi , exercise , or waitlist control groups . Both intervention groups received 12weeks of specific intervention plus st and ard medication received by the controls . All participants completed psychiatric interviews , self-report question naires , performance tasks , and salivary cortisol measures at baseline , 3-month , and 6-month follow-up on psychotic symptoms , motor coordination , memory , daily living function , and stress . Multigroup latent growth modeling was used to evaluate the intervention effects on the outcomes . Compared to controls , the Tai-chi group showed significant decreases in motor deficits and increases in backward digit span and mean cortisol , while the exercise group displayed significant decreases in motor deficits , negative and depression symptoms and increases in forward digit span , daily living function , and mean cortisol . The two interventions did not show significantly different therapeutic effects , except for fewer symptom manifestations in the exercise group . These results suggest psychophysiological benefits for Tai-chi on chronic schizophrenia patients in terms of motor coordination and memory . Though both Tai-chi and exercise groups tended to manifest fewer symptoms than the control group , the exercise group showed better symptoms management than the Tai-chi group Qigong and Tai-Chi are traditional self-healing , self-cultivation exercises originating in ancient China . These exercises are characterized by coordinated body posture and movements , deep rhythmic breathing , meditation , and mental focus based on traditional Chinese medicine theories . Although the exact mechanisms of Qigong 's and Tai-Chi 's effects on physical and mental well-being are unknown , these practice s may be viewed as meditative movements and share many of the healing elements observed in mindfulness meditation . Clinical studies including r and omized controlled trials and meta-analyses have shown that both Qigong and Tai-Chi have beneficial effects on psychological well-being and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression .  Qigong and Tai-Chi frequently involve anchoring attention to interoceptive sensations related to breath or other parts of the body , which has been shown to enhance nonreactivity to aversive thoughts and impulses . Preliminary studies suggest that the slow movements in Qigong and Tai-Chi with slowing of breath frequency could alter the autonomic system and restore homeostasis , attenuating stress related to hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis reactivity and modulating the balance of the autonomic nervous system toward parasympathetic dominance . Qigong 's and Tai-Chi 's effects on emotion regulation could occur through changes in multiple prefrontal regions , the limbic system , and the striatum or in the expression of genes linked to inflammatory responses and stress-related pathways OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effects of a behavioral intervention , Tai Chi , on resting and vaccine-stimulated levels of cell-mediated immunity ( CMI ) to varicella zoster virus ( VZV ) and on health functioning in older adults . DESIGN A prospect i ve , r and omized , controlled trial with allocation to two arms ( Tai Chi and health education ) for 25 weeks . After 16 weeks of intervention , subjects were vaccinated with VARIVAX , the live attenuated Oka/Merck VZV vaccine licensed to prevent varicella . SETTING Two urban U.S. communities between 2001 and 2005 . PARTICIPANTS A total of 112 healthy older adults aged 59 to 86 . MEASUREMENTS The primary endpoint was a quantitative measure of VZV-CMI . Secondary outcomes were scores on the Medical Outcomes Study 36-item Short-Form Health Survey ( SF-36 ) . RESULTS The Tai Chi group showed higher levels of VZV-CMI than the health education group ( P<.05 ) , with a significant rate of increase ( P<.001 ) that was nearly twice that found in the health education group . Tai Chi alone induced an increase in VZV-CMI that was comparable in magnitude with that induced by varicella vaccine , and the two were additive ; Tai Chi , together with vaccine , produced a substantially higher level of VZV-CMI than vaccine alone . The Tai Chi group also showed significant improvements in SF-36 scores for physical functioning , bodily pain , vitality , and mental health ( P<.05 ) . CONCLUSION Tai Chi augments resting levels of VZV-specific CMI and boosts VZV-CMI of the varicella vaccine The objective of this study was to determine whether the effects of Tai Chi training on depressive symptoms in Chinese older patients with depression  remained statistically significant after social support was controlled . Fourteen community-dwelling older patients from a psychogeriatric outpatient clinic were r and omly assigned to either a 3-month Tai Chi intervention with 36 sessions or a wait-list control .  Depression was assessed by the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale ( CES-D ) , whereas social support was measured by the Lubben Social Network Scale ( LSNS ) . By performing multiple regression analyses , we examined whether the effect of group assignment ( Tai Chi and control groups ) on five measures of depressive symptoms ( i.e. the total scores of the CES-D scale , and scores of all its subscales including symptoms related to somatic , negative affect , interpersonal relation , and well-being ) remained significant after controlling for age , gender , education , and LSNS . Results indicate that the beneficial impact of Tai Chi  on five measures of depressive symptoms remained significant when we adjusted for age , gender , and education . On the other h and , the effect of our intervention disappeared when changes of social support were controlled for . Social support might be partly responsible for the effect of Tai Chi on depressive symptoms because practicing Tai Chi is a social activity in nature Objective . Patients with schizophrenia residing at institutions often suffer from negative symptoms , motor , and functional impairments more severe than their noninstitutionalized counterparts . Tai-chi emphasizes body relaxation , alertness , and movement coordination with benefits to balance , focus , and stress relief . This pilot study explored the efficacy of Tai-chi on movement coordination , negative symptoms , and functioning disabilities towards schizophrenia . Methods . A r and omized waitlist control design was adopted , where participants were r and omized to receive either the 6-week Tai-chi program and st and ard residential care or only the latter . 30 Chinese patients with schizophrenia were recruited from a rehabilitation residency . All were assessed on movement coordination , negative symptoms , and functional disabilities at baseline , following intervention and 6 weeks after intervention . Results . Tai-chi buffered from deteriorations in movement coordination and interpersonal functioning , the latter with sustained effectiveness 6 weeks after the class was ended . Controls showed marked deteriorations in those areas . The Tai-chi group also experienced fewer disruptions to life activities at the 6-week maintenance . There was no significant improvement in negative symptoms after Tai-chi . Conclusions . This study demonstrated encouraging benefits of Tai-chi in preventing deteriorations in movement coordination and interpersonal functioning for residential patients with schizophrenia . The ease of implementation facilitates promotion at institutional psychiatric services Objective : To test the hypothesis that patients with soft tissue changes related to superficial venous insufficiency ( SVI ) have greater benefits from treatment than those with only symptomatic varicose veins . Background : A commonly held view is that SVI is only a minor ailment , yet r and omized clinical trials ( RCTs ) show that treatment improves quality of life ( QoL ) and is cost-effective . In an effort to curb the treatment costs of this common disorder , rationing is applied in many health care systems , often limiting the reimbursement of treatment to those with soft tissue changes . Methods : This cohort study draws its data from an interventional RCT . After informed consent , consecutive patients with symptomatic unilateral SVI were r and omized to receive surgical ligation and stripping or endovenous laser ablation .  This analysis differentially studies the outcomes of patients with simple varicose veins ( C2 : n = 191 ) and soft tissue complications ( C3–4 : n = 76 ) . Effectiveness outcomes measured up to 1 year included the following : Qol [ short form 36 ( SF36 ) , EuroQol , and the Aberdeen Varicose Veins Question naire ] , clinical recurrence , and the need for secondary procedures . Multivariable regression analysis was used to control for potential confounding factors . Results : Both groups saw significant improvements in QoL. All improvements were equal between groups apart from the SF36 domain of Bodily Pain , where C2 saw an improvement of 12.8 [ 95 % confidence interval ( CI ) : 4.8–20.8 ] points over C3–4 participants ( P = 0.002 ) , who also suffered more recurrence [ odds ratio ( OR ) = 2.7 , 95 % CI : 1.2–6.1 , P = 0.022 ] and required more secondary procedures ( OR = 4.4 , 95 % CI : 1.2–16.3 , P = 0.028 ) . Conclusions : This study suggests that rationing by clinical severity contradicts the evidence . Delaying treatment until the development of skin damage leads to a degree of irreversible morbidity and greater recurrence . Trial registration : NCT00759434 Clinical Objectives . To assess the current clinical evidence of Tai Chi for essential hypertension ( EH ) . Search Strategy . 7 electronic data bases were search ed until 20 April , 2013 . Inclusion Criteria . We included r and omized trials testing Tai Chi versus routine care or antihypertensive drugs . Trials testing Tai Chi combined with antihypertensive drugs versus antihypertensive drugs were also included . Data Extraction and Analyses . Study selection , data extraction , quality assessment , and data analyses were conducted according to the Cochrane st and ards . Results . 18 trials were included . Method ological quality of the trials was low . 14 trials compared Tai Chi with routine care . 1 trial compared Tai Chi with antihypertensive drugs . Meta- analysis all showed significant effect of TaiChi in lowering blood pressure ( BP ) . 3 trials compared Tai Chi plus antihypertensive drugs with antihypertensive drugs . Positive results in BP were found in the other 2 combination groups . Most of the trials did not report adverse events , and the safety of Tai Chi is still uncertain . Conclusions . There is some encouraging evidence of Tai Chi for EH . However , due to poor method ological quality of included studies , the evidence remains weak . Rigorously design ed trials are needed to confirm the evidence OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effectiveness of Tai Chi Chuan in fall prevention in elderly people living at home with a high risk of falling . DESIGN R and omized controlled trial . SETTING Two industrial towns in the western part of the Netherl and s. PARTICIPANTS Two hundred sixty-nine elderly people ( average age 77 ) living at home with a high risk of falling . INTERVENTIONS The intervention group received Tai Chi Chuan training for 1 hour twice a week for 13 weeks ; the control group received usual care . Both groups received a brochure containing general information on how to prevent fall incidents . MEASUREMENTS Primary outcome was the number of falls over 12 months . Secondary outcomes were balance , fear of falling , blood pressure , heart rate at rest , forced expiratory volume during the first second , peak expiratory flow , physical activity , and functional status . RESULTS After 12 months , no lower fall risk in the Tai Chi Chuan group was observed than in the control group ( adjusted hazard ratio=1.16 ; 95 % confidence interval=0.84 - 1.60 ) , and there were no significant intervention effects on the secondary outcome measures . CONCLUSION These results suggest that Tai Chi Chuan may not be effective in elderly people at a high risk of falling who live at home Background Cystic fibrosis ( CF ) is a genetic disorder affecting respiratory and digestive systems . People with CF experience physical symptoms ; cough , poor lung ventilation , recurrent infections , poor weight gain , diarrhoea , and malnutrition , as well as lower quality of life .  Tai Chi , a Chinese form of meditative movement , may help with the symptoms of CF and help people with CF to exercise . However , there is very little research in this area . Objective To evaluate the feasibility of study ing Tai Chi for CF and to compare the effectiveness of Tai Chi to st and ard care and face-to-face Tai Chi with online Tai Chi for people with CF . Methods This is a comparative effectiveness trial with 72 people with CF over 6 years old and a patient at the Royal Brompton Hospital , London , UK . Participants receive 8 Tai Chi sessions , then home practice with a DVD . Sessions are one-on-one for group A , online for group B. Group B is a no treatment st and ard care control ( first 3 months ) . At baseline , 3 , 6 and 9 months , question naires will be used to measure quality of life , mindfulness and sleep , and medical data health and respiratory function . At Tai Chi sessions and at 4 follow-up points , the Borg Scale and healthcare use data will be collected . At 9 months online focus groups will assess participants ’ experience , Tai Chi feasibility , perceived health impact , and study participation . Recruitment will use adverts in hospital clinics and website , and letter/phone for non-regularly attending patients . Block r and omisation will use r and om number tables . The two groups will be compared for : weeks 1 to 12 ( Tai Chi vs. st and ard care ) ; before and after intervention ( differences in delivery method ) ; week 1 ( of intervention ) to month 9 ( long-term impact ) . Qualitative data will use Framework analysis . Discussion We believe this is the first trial of Tai Chi for CF . Tai Chi may help with the physiological symptoms of CF and increase levels of exercise by providing a self-management technique and low stress activity . This study will provide data on the feasibility of a r and omized controlled trial of Tai Chi for CF , including data for a sample size calculation and will inform future study design Abstract Background : Chronic insufficient sleep is a common finding in many pain‐related and other medical diseases and is frequently experienced in the general population . Prolonged curtailment of nocturnal sleep has been studied for its adverse effect on cognitive functioning and subjective tiredness , but relatively little is known about its effect on mood and physical symptoms . Objective : In order to test whether sleep restriction to 50 % of the habitual time over 12 days affects diurnal and day‐to‐day variation of subjective ratings of mood and physical symptoms , 108 adjectives and statements were self‐rated using visual analog scales every 2 h during the waking period . Design : R and omized , 16‐day controlled in‐laboratory study . Setting : General Clinical Research Center ( GCRC ) . Participants : Forty healthy subjects aged 21–40 years ( 14 females , 26 males ) . Intervention : Subjects were r and omized to either 4 h of sleep per night ( 11pm–3am , N=22 ) or 8 h of sleep per night ( 11pm–7am , N=18 ) for 12 consecutive days . Main Outcome Measure : Changes in the factor‐derived variables optimism‐sociability , tiredness‐fatigue , anger‐aggression , bodily discomfort , and items constituting bodily discomfort were compared between groups . Results : Optimism‐sociability progressively declined over consecutive days of sleep restriction by 15 % . Bodily discomfort showed a slight , but significant interindividual increase of 3 % across days of sleep restriction due to significant increases of generalized body pain , back pain , and stomach pain . Optimism‐sociability and tiredness‐fatigue showed diurnal variations with a quadratic function period within each day in both conditions . Conclusion : The data suggest that chronic insufficient sleep may contribute to the onset and amplification of pain and affect health by compromising optimistic outlook and psychosocial functioning
The results suggest that Tai Chi could be an effective alternative and /or complementary approach to existing therapies for people with fatigue .
There is still absence of adverse events data to evaluate the safety of Tai Chi .
BACKGROUND Fatigue is not only a familiar symptom in our daily lives , but also a common ailment that affects all of our bodily systems .
Several r and omized controlled trials ( RCTs ) have proven Tai Chi to be beneficial for patients suffering from fatigue , however conclusive evidence is still lacking .