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Perceptions of People With Multiple Sclerosis Who Practice Tai Chi and/or Qigong: A Mixed-Methods Study
Lita Buttolph1, Jamie Villanueva1, Heena Manglani-Terranova1
1Helfgott Research Institute, National University of Natural Medicine, Portland, OR (LB, TS, RB, HZ); College of Nursing, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT (JV); Center for Health Outcomes and Interdisciplinary Research, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA (HM-T); Osher Center for Integrative Health, Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA (HM-T, GYY); Division of General Medicine, Beth Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA (GYY); Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR (LB, LW); MS Center of Excellence, VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, OR (LW); Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA (RB).
Regular Tai chi and qigong (TCQ) practice offers physical, cognitive, and emotional benefits for individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). Sustainable engagement requires enjoyable adaptations and self-compassion for long-term health and well-being.
Area of Science:
- Mind-body medicine
- Neurology
- Rehabilitation
Background:
- Exercise is crucial for managing multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms and enhancing quality of life.
- Tai chi and qigong (TCQ) are mind-body exercises with known benefits, but research in MS populations is limited.
- Understanding TCQ's feasibility, acceptability, and sustainability in MS is essential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the potential benefits of regular TCQ practice for individuals with MS.
- To identify factors influencing the feasibility, acceptability, and sustainability of TCQ in MS management.
- To gather insights from people with MS who regularly practice TCQ.
Main Methods:
- A mixed-methods approach combining focus groups and surveys with people with MS practicing TCQ.
- Focus group data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis.
- Surveys collected demographic, MS history, symptom data, and TCQ practice details.
Main Results:
- Reported benefits included improved physical (balance, strength), cognitive (memory), psychological (calming), and social (community) aspects.
- Challenges involved learning movements, physical limitations (fatigue, endurance), and transportation.
- Adaptations like tailored content, appropriate pacing, online delivery, and safety were key.
- Sustainability factors included enjoyment, patience, self-compassion, viewing TCQ as medicine, and scheduling.
Conclusions:
- Consistent TCQ practice may yield significant physical, emotional, cognitive, and social benefits for people with MS.
- Specific practice adaptations and facilitators are crucial for maximizing benefits and ensuring sustainability.
- Further research should explore factors influencing sustained TCQ practice in MS.
