Tai Chi for Chronic Pain Management

Over the course of many months, Disability Living has been sharing information about how Tai Chi movements benefit people with disabilities. Have you read any of the articles listed below? They discuss how Tai Chi is a solution for chronic pain management.

Find the article that relates to your health concerns. If there is no post addressing your specific ailment, please leave us a reply with your diagnosis. We’d love to research how Tai Chi, or other exercises, can aid and assist your overall health.

DOES TAI CHI EASE THE SYMPTOMS OF ARTHRITIS?

CAN TAI CHI REDUCE STRESS?

WHAT IS TAI CHI AND HOW DOES IT RELATE TO DISABILITY?

HOW DOES TAI CHI BENEFIT SOMEONE WITH BACK PAIN?

TAI CHI MAY EASE TENSION IN CHILDREN WITH LEARNING DISABILITIES

IS TAI CHI HELPFUL FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH AUTISM?

TAI CHI RESOURCES FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES
After reviewing some comments left on the posts listed above, it is the goal of this article, and purpose of the Disability Living blog, to answer your questions.

A lot of individuals with arthritis and other chronic pain issues are interested to know more about Tai Chi.

Question 1- What might I expect from a Tai Chi class/ daily routine?
For those interesting in starting a Tai Chi regimen, it is best to attend a class first. This will give you guidance as to how to do Tai Chi movements properly, so that you do not become injured. Instructors are trained and certified in the practice of Tai Chi. They are able to describe and demonstrate movements. In addition, they ought to be knowledgeable about how each movement affects your internal organs, as well as muscle movement and joint care. Throughout an hour long class, it is typical to complete at least 20 movement sets.

For more information about what occurs in a Tai Chi class, consider reading this Web MD article:

http://www.webmd.com/pain-management/features/tai-chi-for-arthritis-relief
Question 2- Where can I read more about the art of Tai Chi?

There are numerous resources available on the Internet. Use keywords like, “Tai Chi,” “resource,” and “disability,” in your search. Another good idea is to insert your specific disability. For instance, try: “Tai Chi, Resource, Arthritis.”

Also, the Tai Chi Foundation has a list of books that may be interesting to you. This not-for-profit organization provides educational resources about how the ancient practice can aid the process of chronic pain management. Find the list of books by clicking on this link: http://www.taichifoundation.org/tai-chi-store
Remember, it is important to consult a physician before trying new exercises. Continue researching Tai Chi resources and be sure to find an instructor who understands your abilities. Tai Chi movements can be beneficial for chronic pain management when done correctly.

Additional Resources:

http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/ART03172/Tai-Chi.html
http://www.arthritistoday.org/what-you-can-do/staying-active/activity-types/tai-chi-questions-2.php

Image made available by James Clayton on Flickr through Creative Commons License.

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