The effect of Tai Chi on functional mobility, balance and falls in Parkinson's disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis of systematic reviews

Explore (NY). 2022 Jul-Aug;18(4):402-410. doi: 10.1016/j.explore.2021.12.002. Epub 2021 Dec 13.

Abstract

Background: The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of Tai Chi on functional mobility, balance and falls in Parkinson's disease.

Materials and methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted to identify the systematic reviews and meta-analyses up to the end of October 2021. 601 studies were identified, and 16 of them were included in our study.

Results: According to our meta-analysis; there was a significant effect of Tai Chi on balance (SMD, -0.777 95% CI -0.921 to -0.633; p = 0.000), functional mobility (SMD, -0.719 95% CI -0.944 to -0.494; p = 0.000), and falls (SMD, -0.456 95% CI -0.668 to -0.245; p = 0.000) in PD.

Conclusion: Our systematic review and meta-analysis found significant effects of Tai Chi on functional mobility, balance and falls in patients with PD.

Keywords: Balance; Fall; Functional mobility; Parkinson's disease; Postural stability; Tai Chi.

Publication types

  • Meta-Analysis
  • Review
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Parkinson Disease* / complications
  • Parkinson Disease* / therapy
  • Postural Balance
  • Tai Ji*