I did extensive lit search on Taichi's effect on balance improvement
reently.
The results of the review was consistent with Chan's findings that the
more
vigorous the study methodologies are, the less statistically significant

effect
of Taichi on balance improvement.  However, overall we would say there
is
moderate strength of evidence.(I am hoping to publish it soon:)

I am glad that Dara mentioned about her own expereince.  I think that it

would
be very important to study how the Taichi participants perceive the
experience
to shed the light on why Taichi may be a good choice of therapy for
people with
balance disorder. (It might be a great qualitative research topic!)

I have used Taichi forms for people with CVA, Parkinsons,s/p hip
fracture,and
various ideopathic dizziness.  All anecdotal so far but the results
rarely
disappointed me.  However, I am a physical therapist first and I see
more
commonality between PT interventions and Taichi forms rather than
differences.

Sachiko Komagata


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