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Effectiveness of Tai Chi as a Therapeutic Exercise in Improving Balance and Postural Control

Tai Chi (TC) is an ancient form of meditative exercise used to improve and maintain good health. To determine whether TC is effective in improving balance, a meta-analysis of the published literature was completed. Two investigators independently identified articles by searching 4 databases using the keywords: Tai Chi, balance, and postural control. Seven eligible articles were evaluated using a score-sheet that quantifies methodologic rigor developed by the investigators for this study; scores ranged from 33 to 43 (out of a maximum score of 49). For each article, the effect size of each outcome measure was quantified using the d-index (d). The mean d of measures corresponding to static conditions, internal perturbations, and external perturbations were -0.07 Q0.37, 1.52 []1.13, and 0.04 []0.40 respectively. Pearson's r between d and the score was []0.70, indicating a strong negative correlation between effect size and methodologic rigor. There is moderate research-based evidence to support the use of TC to improve balance and postural control as measured by responses to internal perturbations.