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Tai chi helps stroke patients

Pamela Allardice
Thursday, November 26, 2009
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Getty Images
In a study published in Neurorehabilitation and Neural Repair, Hong Kong researchers have discovered that tai chi can significantly improve quality of life in survivors of stroke.

Stroke victims are often left with balancing problems which may not be addressed by conventional physiotherapy.

However, the particular skills taught in tai chi — especially the ability to maintain balance while shifting weight and leaning in different directions — was shown to be of special benefit in helping these people face real-life challenges, such as standing in a bus or coordinating head, torso and limb movements while reaching for an item in the supermarket.

As a bonus, tai chi classes cost less than conventional physiotherapy and provide an opportunity for social interaction.

Your say: What do you think of these findings? Have you tried tai chi? Share with us below...

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