The effect of Chinese martial arts Tai Chi Chuan on prevention of osteoporosis: A systematic review

Abstract

SummaryBackground/ObjectiveTai Chi Chuan (TCC) is suggested to have beneficial effects on the musculoskeletal system. The aim of this systematic review is to evaluate the evidence of the effect of TCC on bone mineral density (BMD) and its potential for prevention of osteoporosis.MethodsA literature search was conducted using PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases from inception to January 2017. Randomized controlled studies, case–control trials, prospective cohort studies, and cross-sectional studies which evaluated the effect of TCC on BMD were selected without any subject or language restriction.ResultsNine articles met the inclusion criteria, including seven randomized controlled trials (RCTs), one case–control trial (CCT), and one cross-sectional study, encompassing a total of 1222 participants. Five studies showed statistically significant improvements in BMD after TCC, three studies showed nonsignificant intergroup differences, and one study provided no statistical evaluation of results. The studies with nonsignificant results tended to have a shorter total duration of TCC practice. Apart from dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), two studies additionally used peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT) which showed statistically significant positive effects of TCC on preventing osteoporosis.ConclusionTCC is beneficial to BMD and may be a cost-effective and preventive measure of osteoporosis. This beneficial effect is better observed in long-term TCC practice.The translational potential of this articleThe beneficial effect of TCC on BMD is suggested to be clinically translated to its potential for early rehabilitation and prevention of secondary osteoporosis in patients after surgical treatment of common osteoporotic fractures. The length of practicing TCC, the form and style of TCC, and the types of patient suitable for TCC are to be investigated in future studies.

The effectiveness of exercises on fall and fracture prevention amongst community elderlies: A systematic review and meta-analysis

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Sports and Metabolic Bone Disease

“…69 The practice of tai chi chuan was seen to improve knee extensor strength and static balance, as well as stability of the trunk, with a decrease in the number of falls. 70 Strengthening exercises of the extensor muscles of the back led to a significant reduction in vertebral fracture, with improvement of body balance and reduction of falls, but also a reduction of new vertebral fractures in patients who had undergone vertebroplasty. 71 Gait reeducation and proprioceptive exercises can also be performed in pools, with added benefits for balance and further reduction of number of falls.…”

MicroRNA‐155 inhibition up‐regulates LEPR to inhibit osteoclast activation and bone resorption via activation of AMPK in alendronate‐treated osteoporotic mice

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