Effects of Tai Chi on Multisite Pain and Brain Functions in Older Adults

Effects of Tai Chi on Multisite Pain and Brain Functions in Older Adults

The main purpose of this randomized controlled trial was to assess the feasibility and acceptability of a 12-week Tai Chi program for community-dwelling older adults with chronic multisite pain and a history of falling. In addition, the investigators examined the effects of Tai Chi on pain characteristics, cognition, physical function, gait mobility, levels of pain-related biomarkers, fear of falling and rate of falls in these older adults.

Older adults aged ≥65 years with multisite pain who reported falling in the past year or current use of an assistive device were recruited from Boston area communities. Participants were randomized to either a Tai Chi (N=28) or a light physical exercise (N=26) program, offered twice weekly for 12 weeks. The primary outcomes were feasibility and acceptability of the 12-week Tai Chi/light exercise program. Secondary outcomes included pain characteristics (pain severity and pain interference), cognition (attention and executive function), physical function (walking speed, strength, and balance), gait mobility (singe-task and dual-task gait), levels of pain-related markers (C-reactive protein, interleukin 6, tumor necrosis factor alpha, and beta endorphin), fear of falling, and rate of falls.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age of 65 years and older
• Multisite (2 or more sites) musculoskeletal pain
• At least one fall in the past year, or currently on an assistive device
• A sedentary lifestyle
• Be able to walk 20-feet without personal assistance
• Be able to communicate in English.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Regular Tai Chi practice
• Unstable cardiac disease
• Stroke
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Degenerative neuromuscular disease
• Parkinson's disease
• Terminal disease
• Dementing illness