Tai Chi and Parkinson's Disease
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common degenerative
neurological disorder that causes loss of independence and decreased quality of
life. The prevalence of PD tends to increase with age. In China, the morbidity
rate of PD among people aged more than 65 years old is 1.70%. As an important
component of traditional Chinese Qigong exercises, Tai Chi is a popular and
safe exercise, especially for older adults in China. And it may result in
promising gains for PD patients. However, current evidence is insufficient to
inform the use of Tai Chi in the management of PD. Therefore, the aim of this
trial is to systematically evaluate the effect of Tai Chi on PD and determine
whether Tai Chi is an eligible exercise program for Chinese PD patients. A
single-blind, parallel randomized controlled trial will be conducted. One
hundred and forty-two patients with PD will be randomly assigned to a Tai Chi
group (n = 71) or routine exercise group (n = 71). Subjects will participate in
supervised study programs 3 times per week for 2 months and will be followed
for an additional 6 months after formal training stops. The primary outcome
measures include Berg Balance Scale, Timed Up and Go Test and Six-Minute Walk
Test, which are known to be valid and reliable clinical instruments. The
Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale Motor Section and Parkinson's Disease
Questionnaire-39 will be used as the secondary outcome measure. All outcomes
will be measured at baseline, 2 and 8 months. The sample for this trial (N =
142) will provide relevant information to detect the improvement of balance,
gait and quality of life in either of the 2 exercise groups. Findings from this
study will provide insights into the effects of Tai Chi in people with PD. The
information gained from this project has the potential to influence the
clinical decisions of Chinese doctors, and will provide clear evidence as to
whether Tai Chi should be advocated in people with PD.
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