Objective: To determine if the practice of Tai Chi significantly improves b
alance.
Methods: Twenty-two persons with mild balance disorders were studied. Five
measures of balance were obtained, including 3 objective measures (moving p
latform posturography, Romberg testing, and reach testing) and 2 disability
questionnaires (Dizziness Handicap Inventory and a modified Medical Outcom
es Study general health survey). To be included, patients were required to
be able to stand in the eyes-closed regular Romberg position for 30 seconds
. The subjects underwent 8 weeks of T'ai Chi training and practice and then
were retested.
Results: Highly significant improvements were found on both the posturograp
hy test and the Dizziness Handicap Inventory questionnaire scores (P < .001
and P = .004, respectively). Trends toward improvement were also noted in
Romberg test results and the Medical Outcomes Study survey (P = .03 for bot
h). Reach was not improved.
Conclusion: These findings suggest that T'ai Chi training improves balance.