Qigong may reduce pain and improve quality of life for people with arthritis

Qigong, a type of exercise used in China for centuries, may be useful as an intervention for people with arthritis, a research team reports in an academic journal.

Qigong is an ancient Chinese technique that integrates physical postures, breathing techniques and focused intention.

The researchers analysed the evidence of Qigong exercises as a way for people with arthritis to reduce pain, disability and dependence and improve quality of life.

“Available data reveal that while more research is indicated, Qigong exercises… may be very useful as an intervention strategy for adults with different forms of painful disabling arthritis,” the team says. “Health professionals working with people who have chronic arthritis can safely recommend these exercises to most adults with this condition with the expectation they will heighten the life quality of the individual, while reducing pain and depression in adults with this condition.”

Click here to read the original research.

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