Clinical Findings
Virtual Tai Chi and Qigong Program for Chronic Low Back Pain
Published: December 23, 2024, NASS Journal
Study Type: Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT), 350 participants
Health Focus: Chronic Pain Relief, Physical Function, Sleep Quality, Overall Well-being
Key Findings from the Study
Our 12-week Tai Chi and Qigong program demonstrated the following outcomes at week 16:
35% less disability: Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores improved significantly, with participants in the program achieving an 8.1-point greater reduction than the control group.
40% less pain: Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores showed a 1.2-point greater reduction in pain intensity.
19% improvement in sleep quality: Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) scores revealed a meaningful reduction in sleep disturbances.
22% better overall quality of life: SF-36 scores improved significantly, with a 14.9-point greater increase in health-related quality of life.
What this means for you
This evidence-based program helps relieve pain, improve daily function, enhance sleep, and promote long-term well-being. With continued practice, participants can experience sustained and even greater benefits over time. Read the full article here
Qualitative Insights (From Ongoing Research):
In addition to the RCT findings, qualitative data collected from participants sheds light on the personal and emotional impact of the program. Interviews and feedback revealed that participants experienced holistic health benefits beyond pain relief, including improved function and personal motivation. Key insights include:
Broad Accessibility: Participants at different stages of pain and disability could engage with the program, demonstrating its flexibility.
Holistic Benefits: The integrated practice of Tai Chi, Qigong, and meditation provided varied health benefits, tailored to each participant's unique condition.
Participant Motivation: Personal healing experiences, the enthusiasm of the instructor, and the supportive program environment encouraged active engagement.
Implication:
Both the qualitative findings and the RCT results suggest that this virtually delivered, evidence-based program may offer a powerful, scalable, and adaptable solution for chronic back pain, supporting long-term pain management and improved quality of life.
Demonstrating improvements in pain-related disability, pain intensity, sleep quality, and overall quality of life over the 16-week program.
