Tai Chi and ankylosing spondylitis--a personal experience

Area of Science:

• Integrative Medicine
• Rheumatology
• Traditional Chinese Medicine

Background:

• Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory condition primarily affecting the spine.
• Conventional medical therapies for AS often provide limited symptom relief over long treatment periods.
• The author sought alternative approaches due to the limited efficacy of conventional treatments for his moderately severe AS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the potential benefits of Tai Chi, a traditional Chinese exercise, in managing symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis.
• To assess the impact of consistent Tai Chi practice on physical function and overall well-being in an AS patient.

Main Methods:

• The author engaged in daily practice of Tai Chi, a complex series of traditional Chinese exercises.
• The intervention involved 2.5 years of consistent daily practice.
• Symptom severity and physical function were monitored based on the author's subjective experience and the impact of practice cessation.

Main Results:

• After 2.5 years of daily Tai Chi, the author reported feeling stronger and healthier.
• Significant improvements were observed in pain, weakness, general malaise, spinal flexion deformity, skeletal muscle strength, limb coordination, balance, chest movement, and relaxation.
• Neglecting practice for even one week led to a return of symptoms.

Conclusions:

• Tai Chi appears to be a valuable complementary therapy for ankylosing spondylitis, offering substantial benefits beyond conventional medical treatments.
• Consistent practice of Tai Chi can lead to significant improvements in physical function and quality of life for individuals with AS.
• The benefits of Tai Chi for AS are contingent on regular and sustained practice, highlighting its role in long-term disease management.