Tai Chi improves balance of stroke patients
Ancient martial art helps survivors who are seven times more likely to fall
According to The Telegraph a recent study has found that Tai Chi exercises three times a week could greatly reduce the risk of falls among stroke survivors.
Trial participants who attended three- hour-long Tai Chi classes per week after recovering from a stroke suffered three times fewer falls than those on other rehabilitation programmes. Tai Chi is a martial art dating back to ancient China. It includes physical movements, mental concentration and relaxed breathing.
“Learning how to find and maintain your balance after a stroke is a challenge,” said Ruth E. Taylor-Piliae, the study’s principal investigator and assistant professor at the University of Arizona College of Nursing in Tucson, Arizona.
“Tai Chi is effective in improving both static and dynamic balance, which is important to prevent falls.”
Stroke survivors experience seven times as many falls each year than healthy adults, Taylor-Piliae said. These falls can cause fractures, decrease mobility and increase fear of fallingthat can result in social isolation or dependence.
Tai Chi has significantly reduced falls in healthy older adults. The activity improved balance, muscle strength and endurance as well as psychological benefits.