New study finds tai chi may slow Parkinson’s symptoms for years

A study from Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, suggests that tai chi may help slow down the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease for years, and researchers say that those who practiced the martial art had fewer complications and better quality of life than those who didn’t.

Parkinson’s is a progressive brain disease which leads to slow movement and tremors, and there is currently no known cure.

The study monitored the health of hundreds of Parkinson’s patients for up to five years.  One group of 147 people practiced regular tai chi, while another group of 187 did not.

The charity Parkinson’s UK describes the martial art as a low-intensity physical activity that can “help to lift your mood and help you live well”.

The researchers found that the disease progressed more slowly in the tai chi group on measurements of symptoms, balance and movement.  This group also had less back pain and dizziness, fewer falls, and memory and concentration problems were also lower than in the other group.  Sleep and quality of life also continuously improved.

Professor Alastair Noyce, professor in neurology and neuroepidemiology at Queen Mary University of London, called it “an important study” but added that there were limitations in its design and said that more trials were needed.

He said “We already recommend tai chi, as well as other forms of exercise, but understanding which forms of exercise are most beneficial is an important goal to enhance the long-term management of patients.”

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Posted by Karen Motley, Clinical Negligence Department, Chadwick Lawrence LLP (jacquelinevance@chadlaw.co.uk), medical negligence lawyers and clinical negligence solicitors in Huddersfield, Leeds, Wakefield and Halifax, West Yorkshire.

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