T’ai Chi for Arthritis

T’ai Chi for arthritis was the title of an article in the San Francisco Chronicle in April. It stated that “The newest weapon in the fight against the effects of arthritis may be ancient Chinese tai chi. A report in Arthritis Today says it may be ideal for arthritis sufferers who can’t tolerate the jarring movements of other forms of exercise.

Another article in the Contra Costa Times (CA) headlined “Chinese exercise is used in rehab therapy for people with arthritis”. Tai Chi’s emphasis on gentle motion and relaxation can restore flexibility and conquer stress. The article goes on to talk about ROM which stands for ‘range of motion’ and Patricia Yu, a tai chi instructor in Madison who has developed a ROM Dance which is used with imagery and a strong relaxation-meditation aspect. The routine is used in the occupational therapy program at St. Mary’s Hospital Medical Center, Madison, Wisconsin.