In the study, both groups had significantly reduced Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index scores at 12 weeks. Both groups also had similar, significant improvement in clinical outcomes, such as depression and quality of life. The benefits in both groups were maintained up to 52 weeks, although the tai chi group had significantly greater improvements in depression and the physical component of quality of life.5
A randomized controlled trial published in 2018 that focused on tai chi vs. aerobic exercise for fibromyalgia found similar or greater improvements with tai chi than aerobic exercise. The trial included 226 adults with fibromyalgia and had a primary outcome of change in revised fibromyalgia impact questionnaire scores at 24 weeks compared with baseline.6
The study showed that tai chi is as or more effective than aerobic exercise and that longer duration of treatment provides a greater effect. The study also found these therapeutic benefits were consistent across a diverse group of patients regardless of the instructor. This finding suggests the intervention can be delivered in a standardized way by appropriately trained instructors. Tai chi may be applied in a variety of settings for a range of patients.6
The gentler approach of tai chi may benefit fibromyalgia patients who say aerobic exercise causes too much pain. “The key is how can we use this exercise in combination with different pharmacological treatments and have long-term benefits,” Dr. Wang says.
Dr. Wang’s patients who use tai chi report that it helps pain, lowers stress and depression and improves life satisfaction because of the social interaction involved.
“I think it’s interesting that it affects not just the pain, but a patient’s experience of their quality of life, depression, anxiety, stress, confidence and social aspects,” Dr. Hausmann says.
As with acupuncture, rheumatologists should emphasize the importance of finding instructors with experience helping those with musculoskeletal disorders. Dr. Wang noted she is fortunate to have instructors in her area who have decades of experience.
The Role of Mindfulness
Mindfulness is one of the crucial components of tai chi from recent publications, according to both Drs Wang and Hausmann. Dr. Hausmann described it as not just doing the movements but being aware of the movements you’re doing during tai chi.
Dr. Hausmann asked if mindfulness is something that can be learned. Dr. Wang said yes and added that it may help fibromyalgia symptoms. Dr. Wang previously gave a talk on mindful training and how it may improve fibromyalgia symptoms.