Effects of qigong on systolic and diastolic blood pressure lowering: a systematic review with meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis

Abstract

Background The benefits of qigong for systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP) reduction have been noted in previously published systematic reviews; however, the data on its effectiveness has been at best scarce. We aimed to update the evidence of qigong on blood pressure reduction after taking into consideration the risks of random error and reliability of data in the cumulative meta-analysis using trial sequential analysis (TSA). Methods Included trials were assessed using Cochrane risk of bias instrument. We performed meta-analysis with random-effects model and random errors were evaluated with TSA. We performed the search for the eligible randomized controlled trial (RCT) through Medline, Cinahl, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and also PubMed. Results A total of 370 subjects sourced from seven eligible RCTs were entered into the analysis. The pooled results demonstrated the significant reduction with the use of qigong of the systolic blood pressure [weighted mean difference (WMD), − 10.66 mmHg (95% confidence interval (CI) = − 17.69,-3.62, p < 0.001] and diastolic BP [WMD, − 6.76 mmHg, 95% CI = − 12.22, − 1.30, p < 0.001] as compared to the control group. Conclusions Significant reductions in BP is seen with the use of qigong as compared with the control group, suggesting that qigong may be used as a complementary therapy in the somewhat complicated management of hypertension.

Understanding Traditional Chinese Medicine Therapeutics: An Overview of the Basics and Clinical Applications

“…Lee et al (2003) found that "Qigong" promotes the relaxation and stabilization of the sympathetic nervous system in hypertension patients, positively modeling urinary catecholamine levels and blood pressure, and improving ventilatory functions [180]. Recent systematic reviews on the subject confirm these results [206,207]. Controlled studies developed by Lan et al (2004) to access the cardioventilatory behavior of elderly "Qigong" and "Taijiquan" practitioners showed an improvement in aerobic capacity [185].…”

Yoga and Qigong for Health: Two Sides of the Same Coin?

“…The practice of qigong reduces the systolic and diastolic blood pressure in comparison with those of control groups [ 6 , 50 , 51 ]. Qigong may be an alternative non-pharmacological strategy for hypertension management, namely, in an elderly population group that usually takes too many medications [ 6 ].…”

“…The practice of qigong reduces the systolic and diastolic blood pressure in comparison with those of control groups [ 6 , 50 , 51 ]. Qigong may be an alternative non-pharmacological strategy for hypertension management, namely, in an elderly population group that usually takes too many medications [ 6 ]. In patients in an early stage of recovery from stroke, qigong showed more changes than conventional respiratory training in the improvement of trunk control ability, respiratory muscle functions, and ability to perform daily life tasks [ 52 ].…”

“…It combines gentle body movements with breathing and mindfulness [ 4 , 5 ]. Traditionally, qigong has been defined as the harmonization of qi (the internal vital energy of the body) and blood in the body, aiming to prevent disease and improve health [ 6 , 7 ]. The biophysical effects of qigong as a vegetative biofeedback therapy can be measured and quantified using various methods, namely, the measurement of the electrical potential of the skin [ 3 ].…”

Health Qigong Mawangdui Guidance can improve pelvic floor muscle function and quality of life in females with stress urinary incontinence: A randomized controlled trial pilot study

“…As the prototype of the traditional Chinese Qigong exercise routine, Mawangdui Guidance has a very long history, which can date back to the Qin and Han dynasties in China (221 BC-220 AD). [9] Some research indicated that Mawangdui Guidance plays an important role in preventing diseases and maintaining health, [10][11][12] even in preventing dementia in the old. [13,14] The practice of Mawangdui Guidance includes 12 movements and it takes about 7 minutes to do full set of exercises, which is challengeable for patients to learn a full set of movements.…”